Washington D.C. — A new report titled, “Conservation Economy in America: A Snapshot of Total Fish and Wildlife-Associated Direct Investments and Economic Contributions,” reveals that fish and wildlife conservation generates substantial economic benefits. Federal, state, local, and nonprofit contributions combined contributed $115.8 billion in total economic activity and supported over 575,000 jobs nationwide. Leading conservation organizations across the country applauded the findings, underscoring the report’s importance for America’s economy, communities, and natural resources.
“Theodore Roosevelt once proclaimed, ‘There can be no greater issue than that of conservation in this country,” said Gray N. Thornton, President and CEO of the Wild Sheep Foundation. “This captures the essence of Roosevelt's commitment to conservation, emphasizing both the environmental challenges of his time and the timeless relevance of his vision. He recognized that human activities threatened natural resources and advocated for their responsible management to ensure that future generations could enjoy the benefits of nature. Today, as the report highlights, conservation not only serves ecological purposes but also holds significant economic value. The sustainable use of natural resources can support economies while preserving the environment, reflecting Roosevelt's original intent to protect wild lands and wildlife for the enjoyment of all. This dual focus on ecological integrity and economic prosperity underlines the importance of effective conservation efforts in contemporary society.”
The report finds that $55.3 billion in direct spending on conservation—including habitat restoration, fish and wildlife management, and expanded public access—forms the foundation of the nation’s $1.1 trillion outdoor recreation economy. These conservation investments generate powerful economic returns, adding $76.6 billion to the U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and $16.3 billion in tax revenues for state, local, and federal governments. Simply put, the outdoor recreation economy doesn’t happen without conservation—its contributions are the bedrock upon which all outdoor recreation depends.
“Hunting and fishing alone contribute nearly $400 billion annually to the United States economy, and sound financial investments into conservation are the backbone of our uniquely American sporting traditions and this important sector of the economy,” said Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation President and CEO Jeff Crane. “Investments into conservation not only bolster fish, wildlife, and their habitats, but they also strengthen hunting and fishing opportunities for sportsmen and women across the nation, a win-win for our economy and our natural resources.”
The federal government was the leading source of conservation investments, accounting for approximately 48% of all spending. Its share, however, has been declining, even as state and local governments now provide 45% of spending—reflecting a shrinking portion of federal contributions to total conservation funding.
Together, these investments generated tax revenues on par with the video game industry—underscoring conservation’s powerful return for communities and the economy alike, while simultaneously preserving biodiversity and strengthening long-term growth.
Read the full report HERE.
Tags: Conservation, Press Release