Outdoor recreation big business in Hawaii, report says

Outdoor recreation generates an estimated $6.7 billion in spending annually in Hawaii, according to a report published by an industry trade group.

The spending supports 65,100 jobs that produce $2.1 billion in wages and $478 million in state tax revenue, the Outdoor Industry Association reported.

“”Hawaii offers spectacular outdoor recreation opportunities at treasured destinations, including Hawaii Volcanos National Park, Haleakala National Park and many others, providing the types of outdoor experiences that produce these economic benefits,” according to a news release from the group.

Nationally, Americans spend an estimated $646 billion each year on outdoor recreation, supporting 6.1 million jobs and generating nearly $80 billion in tax revenue, according to the report.