Here’s a re-cap of some of the noteworthy recreation economy stories from the past month. 

Superfeet takes another big step, and that means more jobs in Ferndale
The Ferndale-based manufacturer announced this week that it will begin production of custom-fit recovery slides, or the sandals people put on after a run. The company also announced it is partnering with Brooks Running Company to produce a high-performance running shoe that is custom fit to the individual based on data gathered from the company’s FitStation, which is available in retail stores including Fairhaven Runners & Walkers.

OUTDOOR ALLIES: CAILIN O’BRIEN FEENEY
Cailin O’Brien Feeney, State and Local Policy Manager at Outdoor Industry Association, shares his secret sauce for making state offices of outdoor recreation the most popular policy idea of the last year.

REI and Patagonia Launch Websites Selling Used Gear
Both brands just built websites that will help people shop for pre-owned products

Washington’s Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP) as a national model for outdoor recreation funding.
Recognizing both the threats to and benefits of the natural environment, a diverse coalition persuaded the Washington State Legislature to create the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP) in 1989 with two objectives: acquiring important recreation and habitat lands before they are converted and developed, and improving recreation areas for Washington’s expanding population. Since its founding, WWRP has generated more than $360 million in outdoor recreation grants to state and local agencies for capital projects.

April Claxton

April is a co-founder and former co-Executive Director for Recreation Northwest. She has a passion for place and loves exploring, experiencing and sharing the beauty of the pacific northwest.  She is currently working with Ocean Conservancy to protect our oceans, specifically the Arctic.