New state office aims to preserve and promote Tennessee’s outdoor recreation industry

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Tennessee’s great outdoors is getting a boost by establishing a new state office dedicated to preserving the environment and supporting the booming outdoor recreation industry.

The newly created Office of Outdoor Recreation will focus on protecting Tennessee’s natural beauty while fostering an industry that contributes $11.9 billion to the state’s economy.

River Queen Voyages ‘ General Manager, Virginia McMahon, sees the Cumberland River as a prime example of the state’s potential for outdoor enjoyment.

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“More and more we’re seeing people who want to get out and do things that aren’t party-centric, that aren’t focused around substances,” McMahon said. “We are happy to be able to provide that, and want to be able to provide more.”

McMahon’s river tour business thrives when the Cumberland River is clean, accessible and at the right level.

However, maintaining these conditions is beyond her control, which is why she’s thrilled about the state’s decision to open the Office of Outdoor Recreation, which has made enhancing Tennessee’s rivers a top priority .

“We are the people who are down here seeing everything and helping take care of things, whether we signed up for it or not, and that’s just what we love to do,” McMahon said.

The new office’s commitment to improving and maintaining the state’s natural resources is a welcome development for businesses like River Queen Voyages. McMahon hopes to expand her tours and offer more options for customers, including those with different physical abilities.

“Any more resources and attention that can be spent towards promoting and improving and maintaining this beautiful state that we live in and all its natural resources we are all for,” McMahon said.

She envisions a future where the state’s efforts lead to cleaner rivers and improved infrastructure, enabling her and other outdoor recreational businesses to thrive.

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“It takes a village,” McMahon emphasized. “We need everyone to care for this waterway in order to keep it clean and keep it great. And you know, if the state can help us get a jump start on that, that’s wonderful.”

The Office is headed up by Brian Clifford an attorney and Williamson County Commissioner.

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