Luis Benitez, the director of Colorado’s new , on Monday announced an advisory board listing with outdoor industry heavyweights who will help guide the office.
After a three-month tour of the state – talking with outdoor recreation businesses, nonprofits and industry players – Benitez has identified four pillars for his one-man office: economic development, stewardship and conservation, industry anchors and education.
“Colorado is in a strong position to lead the Outdoor Recreation Industry on many levels, and with the help of the advisory group, the office will not only create the collective voice for the outdoor community and industry in the state, but also craft the collaborative vision for the future of the industry in Colorado,” said Benitez.
Luis Benitez. Photo courtesy Luis Benitez
The Outdoor Industry Association in Boulder , generating $994 million in local and state taxes and employing 125,000 workers.
His 22-member advisory board represents nearly every aspect of the state’s vibrant recreation community. The board represents a wide array of interests, including conservationists, motorized recreation advocates, educators, non-profit directors, ski resorts and business owners and all veterans of playing in Colorado.
OREC Advisory Group Members:
Brady Robinson, with the Access Fund
Jenn Dice with People for Bikes
Auden Schendler with Aspen Skiing Co.
Lauren Truitt with Colorado Parks & Wildlife
Bruce Ward with ChooseOutdoors.org
Jason Bertolacci with COMBA and IMBA
Don Riggle with the Colorado Trails Preservation Alliance
Nathan Fey with American Whitewater
Lise Aangeenbrug with Great Outdoors Colorado
Peter O’Neil with Colorado Outward Bound School
Cailin O’Brien-Feeney with Winter Wildlands Alliance
Kristin Carpenter-Ogden with Verde Brand Communications
Kenji Haroutunian, outdoor industry consultant
Annelise Loevlie with Icelantic Skis
Tony Lewis with the Donnel-Kay Foundation
Kim Miller with Scarpa North America
Bill Gamber with Big Agnes / Honey Stinger
Irene Vilar with America for Conservation + the Arts
Scott Braden with Conservation Colorado
Rick Cable with Vail Resorts
Margaret Taylor with Colorado State Parks
Phil Powers with the American Alpine Club
