TREAD Launches Program to Help Keep Outdoor Recreation Thriving Amid Growing Pressure on Public Lands
Outdoor recreation is a key attraction that helps drive our local economy and enhance our quality of life. According to an Economic Analysis of Outdoor Recreation in Washington State, it contributed nearly $720 million dollars to the local economy in 2020 alone. However, rising visitor numbers, years of underfunding, and recent U.S. Forest Service staffing cuts are putting our local, state and federal public lands at risk.
To address these challenges, TREAD is partnering with interested local businesses, land managers, tourists, and community members to launch One for the Outdoors—a two-part program connecting donations and volunteers with key outdoor recreation needs in the region.
One for the Outdoors Voluntary Give-Back Program
The One for the Outdoors Voluntary Give-Back Program (VGB) allows customers at participating businesses to directly contribute to the sustainability of outdoor recreation in the region. Funds collected at the point of sale will be distributed through a competitive grant-making process overseen by an Advisory Committee. Other regions with outdoor recreation-driven economies (Lake Tahoe, Bend, Kittitas County) have successfully implemented similar programs to support and sustain outdoor spaces.
Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort was an early adopter of the program. Customers have had the option of adding $1 to transactions made online or at the ticket window throughout the 2024-2025 season.
“Mission Ridge is proud to support the One for the Outdoors initiative to benefit outdoor recreation resources in the region,” says Tony Hickock, Chief Marketing Officer at Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort. “Now more than ever, it is crucial to come together as a community to support the outdoor recreation infrastructure and natural resources that make this place we call home so special.”
TREAD is now enrolling additional businesses into the program. Participating businesses will be featured on an interactive map on the program website and will have the option to display promotional materials at their locations to showcase their involvement.
One for the Outdoors Volunteer Hub
In an effort to strengthen the capacity of public land managers during this challenging time, TREAD is also launching the One for the Outdoors Volunteer Hub to connect individuals and groups with opportunities that match their skills, interests, and availability. The hub will offer a range of options, from one-time volunteer events open to residents and tourists alike, to a comprehensive Ambassador program that builds on similar successful initiatives in the area.
“We are leveraging our position as NCW’s trusted partner in outdoor recreation to quickly respond with these community stewardship programs and to help minimize negative impacts until longer-term solutions can be identified,” said Mat Lyons, Executive Director of TREAD.
All community members interested in getting involved are encouraged to visit OnefortheOutdoors.org for more information. There are three ways to join the effort:
1. Enroll your business.
2. Make a direct donation.
3. Sign up as a volunteer.
Together we can keep outdoor recreation, and the communities that depend on it, thriving despite the challenges ahead.