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Trump signs executive order banning transgender athletes from women's sports, directing DOJ to enforce; Educators voice concern for PA immigrant student protections; WA rent stabilization bills have huge public support; ME benefits from $2.2 billion in federal clean energy investments.

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Nationwide protests erupt against federal policies, Indiana's EV infrastructure expansion stalls due to a funding freeze, and Washington state pushes for rent stabilization to combat rising housing costs.

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During Black History Month, a new book shares how a unique partnership built 5,000 schools for Black students, anti-hunger advocates say ag communities would benefit from an expanded SNAP program, and Americans have $90 billion in unpaid medical bills.

New ND state park adds weight to Great Outdoors Month messaging

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Monday, June 17, 2024   

As temperatures warm up, people are enjoying nature - and North Dakota officials hope to see many more do so in the future as a new state park comes on board.

June is Great Outdoors Month, and the messaging about embracing outdoor activities is often associated with national park sites.

But industry voices say state sites shouldn't be overlooked for their drawing power.

North Dakota recently broke ground on transforming the Pembina Gorge Recreation Area into a state park, and Whitney Potter Schwartz - senior vice president with the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable - applauded moves like these.

"North Dakota is really doing incredible things around investments in outdoor recreation," said Potter Schwartz. "And when these investments are made in local communities and our public lands, it really can transform our economies and the quality of life."

She said many outdoor-centric businesses are small businesses that serve as cornerstones of their communities, especially in rural areas.

Potter Schwartz also credited North Dakota for becoming the latest state to establish an Office of Outdoor Recreation.

This sector creates nearly $1.4 billion in economic activity across the state, and officials say with the new site, visitor spending is expected to grow.

Potter Schwartz said getting outdoors is proven to be good for people's health, and her organization wants to ensure everyone has access.

"There's so many benefits - whether that's health benefits, economic benefits - to being outside that we really, truly believe everyone should have that opportunity," said Potter Schwartz, "regardless of your background or ability, to really experience it and enjoy nature."

She said having more formal sites that gain greater exposure can only help in breaking down access barriers.

Potter Schwartz said it's important to remember that enjoying nature in a recreational setting can also improve your mental health.




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