WASHINGTON –The OIA Friend of the Outdoor Industry Award is presented to members of Congress and administration officials in recognition for their leadership in support of the outdoor recreation industry. This year’s awards were presented to Representative Elise Stefanik, Representative Erik Paulsen and Senator Jon Tester for their continued support of the outdoor recreation economy and key issues important to the outdoor industry. In addition to these federal champions, Governors Steve Bullock (MT), John Hickenlooper (CO) and Matt Mead (WY) were all recognized for the work they are doing in their home states to grow the outdoor recreation economy by establishing offices of outdoor recreation and taking advantage of the opportunity local recreation brings to supporting and diversifying economies across their states.
“This year’s award winners reflect the outstanding support the outdoor industry is earning, both on the federal and state levels,” said OIA Executive Director Amy Roberts. “Outdoor recreation is a powerful economic force and a foundation for healthy communities and healthy economies across the United States. We are proud to present these awards to three state Governors and three champions for the outdoor industry in Congress.”
About the recipients:
Representative Elise Stefanik (R-NY-21)
Representative Erik Paulsen (R-MN-03)
Senator Jon Tester (D-MT)
Governor Steve Bullock (D-MT)
Governor John Hickenlooper (D-CO)
Governor Matt Mead (R-WY)
The 2018 OIA Friend of the Outdoor Industry Awards were celebrated during an evening reception on Capitol Hill during the OIA Capitol Summit on Wednesday, April 18.
About Outdoor Industry Association
Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is the leading trade association for the outdoor industry and the title sponsor of Outdoor Retailer. Outdoor Industry Association unites close to 1,300 manufacturer, supplier, sales representative and retailer members through its focus on trade and recreation policy, sustainable business innovation and outdoor participation. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org.