“Connecting the Ecosystem,” speaks to bridging the divides between disciplines, and both seeing and stewarding our outdoor economy as a complex system that thrives from the cross-pollination of communities and ideas.
Expect the return of our hugely popular Expo space, inspirational programming, workshops & field visits, cross-sector summits, facilitated networking opportunities, and much more.
All tracks and sessions are all organized around the greater conference theme of Connecting the Ecosystem. Woven throughout these core Program Tracks are common threads, including:
Equity
Sustainability & Resiliency
Funding
Accessibility & Inclusivity
Workforce
Leadership
User Retention & Growth
Policy
Data & Trends
Featuring some of the most prominent movers and shakers in outdoor industry and community. Keep checking as we update this list!
James Melonas
North Carolina Forest Supervisor, USFS
Dr. Aby Sène-Harper
Assistant Professor, Clemson University
D. Reid Wilson
Secretary, North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
Earl B. Hunter Jr
Founder & President, Black Folks Camp Too
Amy Allison
Director, NC Outdoor Recreation Industry Office
Scott Bricker
Interim Vice President, Travel Oregon
Dr. Melissa Weddell
Chair, Appalachian State Department of Recreation Management
Dr. Ryan L. Sharp
Associate Professor, Applied Park Science Lab, Kansas State University
Erin McCombs
Southeast Director, American Rivers
Steven Foy
Director of Outpost Operations, Nantahala Outdoor Center
Megan Lawson, Ph.D.
Economist, Headwaters Economics
2023 Sponsorships and Exhibitor Opportunities are Available Now!
See what happened in 2022 by checking out the gallery, 2022 speaker roster and session info below.
Photos by Steven Reinhold — The Appalachian Adventure Company & Joanna Brown — MADE X MTNS
This event is made possible through the generous support of our sponsors, who recognize the value that the outdoors brings to our communities and our companies. Our 5th Annual Conference sponsors include…
Our attendees regularly rate the Outdoor Economy Conference as one of the best events of the year, noting our top-notch production, engaging speakers and topics, and the awesome community of people they’ve connected with. Here’s just a few testimonials…
777 Casino Dr. Cherokee, NC 28719
Connect with and exchange ideas with outdoor industry and thought leaders from around the nation and the world.
Our in-person conferences sold out in 2019 and 2022, so be sure to get your tickets before we sell out this year!
Working Together to Ensure a Vibrant Future for the Outdoor Economy and Our Outdoor Communities.
