Partners Outdoors 2008 hosted over 125 participants from the recreation community – representing both the public and private sectors – at Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort in Snowbird, Utah. The four-day conference highlighted the essential need for partnerships in tackling the challenge of engaging our youth in the great outdoors.

The conference’s keynote address was given by Lyle Laverty, Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Fish and Wildlife and Parks. Mr. Laverty encouraged the Partners Outdoors participants to go beyond “happy talk” and take action to deal with a changing America. While acknowledging that the federal land-management agencies are facing “wicked problems” with no easy answers, Mr. Laverty expressed his belief that partnerships are a simple strategic way to meet the challenge of unlocking the outdoors for Americans. Mr. Laverty concluded his remarks with a charge to act on the information received and the recommendations made at Partners Outdoors and to “do the right, right thing.”

Panels of federal agency and recreation industry leaders then discussed programs, initiatives and partnerships focused on the recreational needs of the public, especially today’s youth, and effective ways of meeting those needs.

The Partners Outdoors participants also rotated through four action team discussions led by a core group. Each individual had the opportunity to share insights on four “action vehicles” for unlocking the fun and benefits of the outdoors: A New National Commission on Americans Outdoors; Great Outdoors Month; Action by Other Organizations and Key Contacts; and 2008 Elections and Transitions. The teams produced substantive recommendations for follow-up action throughout the year.

The conference closed with inspirational remarks from legendary Dick Bass, Chairman and CEO of Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort and world renowned author of Seven Summits. Mr. Bass praised the Partners Outdoors participants as “part of a movement of human health and protection of our earth’s resources” and encouraged them to persevere in their efforts on behalf of people and the outdoors.

For a detailed conference report, click here

For the Partners Outdoors Resource Book contents, click here

To download the Partners Outdoors panel presentations, click here

The Partners Outdoors Action Team summaries:
New Recreation Commission
2008 Elections and Transitions
Great Outdoors Month