Economic Impact of NYS Parks Now Rivals Agriculture
ECONOMIC IMPACT OF NYS PARKS NOW RIVALS AGRICULTURE
New report finds every $1m invested in NYS parks results in $10m in sales
A new economic impact report conducted by Parks & Trails New York (PTNY), The Political Economy Research Institute (PERI), and The Natural Heritage Trust finds that the annual GDP of New York State Parks and Historic Sites amounted to $3.7 billion in 2021. This economic impact rivals that of the state’s agricultural sector, which generated $3.3 billion during the same year (U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis).
The study, based on data from Jan. 2021 through Dec. 2021, examined the growth of visitation, sales, labor income, and GDP among communities that include state parks and historic sites. This information proves the economic value of New York’s State Park System, in addition to the growing popularity of public spaces and need for ongoing investment.
The report entitled New York’s State Parks; The Economic engine for the State finds that park visitors generate $5.8 billion in sales, $2.5 billion in labor income, and $3.7 billion in state GDP yearly.
The report also finds that State Parks funding results in a strong return on investment. Every $1 million invested in parks results in $10 million in sales, $4 million in labor income, and $7 million in state GDP.
Parks visitation continues to grow thanks to this investment in State Parks. Of the estimated 78 million visits in 2021, 47 million came from tourists not local to the area–solidifying New York State as an premier outdoor destination. These numbers only continue to grow, as state sites saw 84 million visitors in 2023.
This influx of tourism benefits local municipalities, businesses, and communities in proximity to parks, with visitors spending on park entrance fees, gift shops, recreational equipment, food and beverages, gas stations, local transportation, lodging, and other expenses.
“Now in its centennial year, New York’s state park system provides millions of New Yorkers and visitors from across the globe with world-class outdoor recreation opportunities. This report confirms what we at REI Co-op have long known to be true: Investing in our outdoor places and the ability for everyone to enjoy them is not just a necessity for our health and wellbeing, it serves as a powerful economic driver for communities of all kinds. We celebrate New York’s long legacy of stewarding its natural, historic and cultural resources for the benefit of all,” said Alicia Harvie, Head of Community & Government Affairs at REI Co-op.
“The recent surge in park visitation has brought significant benefits to local economies, particularly in communities like Saratoga Springs and Saratoga County. When visitors come to enjoy the natural beauty of our parks, they also explore our main streets, dine at our restaurants, and stay in our hotels. This influx of visitors translates directly into economic growth for our local businesses,” said Darryl Leggieri, President, Discover Saratoga.
“We are so fortunate in Saratoga County to have three amazing State Parks, in Moreau, Waterford, and Saratoga Springs. Each of these parks helps us to attract visitors year-round to Saratoga County where they spend money and help our local businesses to succeed, grow, and thrive. These parks also are a tremendous asset for attracting talent as people love living near our state parks where their families can take advantage of all of the amenities from trails to lake access, to playgrounds and pools, golf and hiking, running, cycling, and more,” said Todd Shimkus, President, Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.
"PTNY's report demonstrates why policymakers and elected officials should invest in parks and trails across New York now more than ever. Parks like Walkway Over the Hudson not only generate jobs and business opportunity but also play a critical role in improving quality of life for our communities. It's exciting to see New York State Parks recognized as the growing economic drivers that they are,” said Lori Robertson, Executive Director, Walkway Over The Hudson.
"Investing in our parks is about more than just improving recreational spaces—it's about fostering vibrant, resilient communities. The success of projects like the Schenectady Central Park Pool, which saw overwhelming support and use from residents this summer, is a testament to the economic and social value parks bring to cities and towns across New York State. In September alone, the Park welcomed over 80,000 visitors! Additionally, it prevents an estimated 6.2 million gallons of runoff annually, saving the city approximately $55,000 in stormwater management costs. Well-designed parks not only enhance quality of life but also attract visitors, stimulate local businesses, and create jobs, making them vital assets for community growth and sustainability," said Daniel Shearer, P.E., Senior Principal, President/CEO, Saratoga Associates
"Congratulations to NYS Parks, PTNY, and all of its partners on this incredible centennial celebration of stewardship, economic benefits, and enhanced visitor experiences. The LA Group has a long and proud history of working with NYS Parks, helping to achieve critical goals in historic and cultural preservation, improving accessibility for all, and creating more resilient parklands and historic sites throughout the state. We look forward to furthering these efforts as NYS Parks continues to thrive, benefiting both the environment and the economy for generations to come,” said David Miller, Principal Landscape Architect, The LA Group.
“New York boasts one of the most diverse, unique, and historically rich landscapes in the nation. It is through the dedicated advocacy of organizations like Parks & Trails NY, which LaBella is proud to support, that we are able to preserve and enjoy these treasured public lands, ensuring their protection for generations to come,” said Andy Rymph, RLA, Landscape Architecture Discipline Leader, LaBella Associates.
“Our state parks are a life blood for economic growth and stability in New York State. With millions upon millions of visitors entering the Adirondack Park alone each and every year coming from literally every state in the nation and around the world there is a substantial economic impact not only in this region but in all corners of the state. Our natural beauty and resources must be preserved and the state must attempt to acquire as much land for public use as we move into the future. Projects like the proposed Great Oswegatchie Canoe Wilderness in the west central Adirondacks need to be re-examined as this would add tens of thousands of acres to our forest preserve and be a nationally recognized destination that could bring millions more to our state in the future,” said John Nemjo, Owner, Saratoga Outdoors.
Methodology
Data for this report was sourced from the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, I Love NY/Empire State Development, and comparable regional and national studies on the impact of tourism and outdoor recreation on localized economies.
Using new methodology, PERI utilized Input-Output (I-O) Models via the IMPLAN service to provide a comprehensive overview of the economy. I-O models document linkages between different sectors, including businesses engaging in inter-industry transactions and purchases made by households and the government.
Parks & Trails New York (PTNY) is New York’s leading statewide advocate for parks and trails, dedicated since 1985 to improving our health, economy, and quality of life through the use and enjoyment of green space. Our mission is to expand, protect and promote a network of parks, trails, and open spaces throughout our state for use and enjoyment by all.
The Political Economy Research Institute (PERI) promotes human and ecological well-being through our original research. Our approach is to translate what we learn into workable policy proposals that are capable of improving life on our planet today and in the future. PERI is an independent unit of the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
The Natural Heritage Trust has worked to preserve New York’s public lands and enhance programs at state parks and historic sites for over 50 years. Our mission is to receive and administer gifts, grants and contributions to further public programs for parks, recreation, cultural, land and water conservation and historic preservation purposes of the State of New York.