Cape Ann is beautiful. and the region’s beauty has led to an economic boon.
The strength of the outdoor recreation economy for Massachusetts grew 17% in 2022, contributing more than $11.7 billion in value to the state’s economy. That growth has also lead to the creation of 102,687 jobs, according to new figures released by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA).
The numbers are good news for Greater Cape Ann, Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce CEO Steve Buckley said.
“I think it bodes well for our region,” he said. “We have the most unique places to visit in the region and the country. More and more people are discovering us.”
Top sectors in Massachusetts ranked by economic value include boating and fishing, hunting and shooting, RVing, climbing/hiking, tent camping, skiing, snowshoeing, motorcycling, ATVing, and bicycling. The fastest growing sectors are sailing, snow activities, climbing/hiking, recreational flying, and guided activities, according to the BEA.
Buckley reported the number of permits for boat slips on Cape Ann surpassed last year’s figures by 8%, despite it raining 13 out of 18 weeks this summer. Plus, he said bookings are up at local hotels and restaurants.
“In spite of this year’s weather, in terms of recreation, we had strong numbers,” Buckley said. “People are still coming here in spite of the weather.”
Manchester-by-the-Sea Town Administrator Gregory Federspiel said while he has not seen the hard data yet, the BEA figures can only be good news for the area.
“Obviously, Cape Ann is certainly a recreation destination especially during the warm weather,” he said. “We certainly draw crowds to Singing Beach, walkable from the commuter rail stations, and the amount of boating activity in and around our harbor has increased in recent years.”
In addition, Federspiel said boaters sink money into the local economy.
“Our transient dock has grown in popularity with boaters visiting local establishments,” he said.
While most visitors to Cape Ann are familiar with its beaches and boating opportunities, Buckley said other offerings make the area an attractive destination. He cited such attractions as the Crane Estate in Ipswich and the open spaces of the Manchester Essex Conservation Trust.
“We have such recreational diversity in the region,” Buckley said. “We have some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast. The folks who visit stay in town and they go out to eat and shop. There are people who stay all summer. They’re a part of the economy. They’re not just parking their boats.”
Owing to the importance of outdoor recreation, the state in September launched the new Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation (MOOR), which works to promote the state as a diverse and accessible destination for outside recreation.
“Every Massachusetts resident deserves easy access to safe outdoor spaces with clean air and water,” Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper said. “By providing opportunities for fun outside, especially for kids, we create the next generation of environmental stewards.”
Randall Lyons, executive director of the Massachusetts Marine Trades Association, said the recreational boating industry in Massachusetts contributes more than $5 billion to the state’s economy and employs more than 17,500 men and women.
“For every $1 spent on transient dockage, it equates to close to $4 to the local community where the visiting boater is docked,” he said. “Boaters are helping to fuel the economy by spending money on shopping, restaurants, lodging, fuel and more.”
In addition, the state presents a number of recreational offerings that contribute to the well-being of residents and also adds to the economy, according to Heather Clish, vice president of conservation and recreation Advocacy for the Appalachian Mountain Club.
“Today’s news that the outdoor recreation economy grew so well last year is a strong sign that the outdoors is a critical and increasingly important part of our lives,” she said.
Find the full BEA report at https://bit.ly/49VaI2P
Stephen Hagan can be reached at 978-675-2708 or at shagan@northofboston.com.