BISMARCK – Gov. Doug Burgum announced the establishment of the North Dakota Office of Outdoor Recreation Thursday.

North Dakota joins 21 other states in establishing a dedicated Office of Outdoor Recreation, according to the governor’s office. The new office, created by executive order, is being launched using existing resources and personnel.

“This new office will allow us to better coordinate with stakeholders and state agencies as they develop plans, strategies and initiatives to maximize the impact of outdoor recreation in North Dakota,” Burgum said.

According to the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, North Dakota sees a $1.3 billion economic boost annually from outdoor recreation.

“I know I speak for my partners at Game and Fish and Commerce when I say we are thrilled at the opportunity to strategically connect with all outdoor recreation stakeholders in the private sector and state, federal and local governments,” said Cody Schulz, director of North Dakota Parks and Recreation. “The physical and mental health impacts of outdoor recreation are well known, and this office will help to drive the economic health of the state as well. This is about going from really good to great.”

As part of the Office of Outdoor Recreation launch, North Dakota Parks and Recreation announced:

– $1.2 million was awarded to four applicants across the state for construction and rehabilitation of trails through the Recreation Trails Program Grant.

– The Roughrider Trail, a multi-use motorized trail south of Mandan, will be expanded from 16 miles to 20 miles and will connect Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park to wildlife management areas, a gun range, three boat ramps, two historic sites and two Morton County parks.

– The newly launched OuterSpatial mobile app directs users to special events and points of interest within North Dakota’s state parks and more than 2,200 miles of statewide trails.