Being Minnesotan means hunting, fishing, boating, camping, exploring the great outdoors, right? Well, maybe not so much anymore. Recent surveys conducted by the Minnesota DNR, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the National Park Service show declines in recreational activities that once defined Minnesotans.

What’s replacing traditional outdoor recreation? While much remains unknown, likely candidates include television, computer gaming, and over-programmed lifestyles. According to the surveys, these declines are likely to continue.The DNR is devoting its State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) to addressing this topic with a goal of increased participation in outdoor recreation. This document also provides guidance to outdoor recreation decision makers and managers on policy and investment matters.

Deeper exploration of the research shows the declines are most closely associated with the 16 - 44 year old age group, which traditionally passes outdoor recreation experiences on to children. Anecdotal data points to the growing role grandparents are playing in sharing outdoor recreation experiences with grandchildren.