House Engrossed

Arizona's get outdoors initiative

State of Arizona

House of Representatives

Fifty-fifth Legislature

Second Regular Session

2022

HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION 2019

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

supporting arizona's get outdoors initiative.

(TEXT OF BILL BEGINS ON NEXT PAGE)

Whereas, the outdoor industry in Arizona represents a major potential economic engine that could bring more jobs, prosperity, vitality and wellness to Arizona residents and their communities. Currently, the outdoor industry employs 201,000 people, generates $4.8 billion in wages and salaries, results in $23.2 billion in consumer spending and generates $1.4 billion in local and state tax revenues; and

Whereas, attracting outdoor industries to Arizona, particularly to rural communities, and making investments in recreation businesses and outdoor amenities serve to improve our total economy and enhance the quality and quantity of outdoor experiences for all Arizonans; and

Whereas, communities across Arizona recognize that outdoor recreation supports health, contributes to a high quality of life and attracts and sustains employers and families; and

Whereas, scientific research shows that both children and adults are spending more time inside than previous generations, are increasingly distanced from nature, are engaging in less physical exercise and are at increased risk for poor health because of sedentary practices; and

Whereas, research shows that time spent in nature by all people can lead to physical, mental, developmental and behavioral health benefits; and

Whereas, there is significant value in providing opportunities for the people of Arizona to experience awe-inspiring moments while gazing and reflecting on the natural beauty of the Grand Canyon State's uniquely spectacular outdoor places; and

Whereas, quality time in the natural world encourages curiosity and provides hands-on field experience and experiential learning, resulting in improved learning across various fields of science; and

Whereas, Arizonans have a rich and diverse heritage of outdoor pursuits and an intimate relationship to the land, wildlife, clean water, clear skies and cultural resources; and

Whereas, public lands represent a significant portion of Arizona's land base and are critical components of a healthy outdoor environment that are low cost to access and beneficial to all residents; and

Whereas, fostering equity of access to outdoor opportunities is fundamental to ensuring that all state residents can enjoy Arizona’s natural resources; and

Whereas, the time is now for Arizona to harness the economic opportunities available within America's $877 billion per year outdoor recreation industry, and the well-being and physical, mental and social development of Arizona's residents relies on promoting healthy, active lifestyles filled with outdoor experiences for everyone, all while respecting private property rights.

Therefore

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives of the State of Arizona, the Senate concurring:

That the Members of the Legislature support Arizona's Get Outdoors Initiative, which states that every resident in Arizona should have the opportunity to:

1. Enjoy and observe nature and wildlife in Arizona through activities like birdwatching, hunting, fishing, hiking, backpacking, trail running, trail riding, mountain biking, four-wheeling, stargazing or just wandering in the outdoors.

2. Learn about, appreciate and respect indigenous cultural resources, petroglyphs, pictographs, ancient habitation sites and landscapes as sacred places best left undisturbed.

3. Explore Arizona's parks, forests, public lands and wild places.

4. Experience Arizona's mountains, deserts, canyons, lakes and rivers.

5. Gaze at a starry sky or sleep in a tent.

6. Bring along a friend to discover nearby nature right outside one's own backyard and beyond.

7. Splash in Arizona's rivers, lakes, streams and hot springs.

8. Follow a trail.

9. Plant a seed and tend a garden.

10. Be a steward and take care of Arizona's outdoor places and landscapes so future generations can also enjoy these precious assets.