FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 18, 2023
Media Contacts:
Kirsten Macintyre, California Natural Resources Agency, (916) 502-4946
The California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA) today released a draft strategy for its Outdoors for All initiative, which aims to ensure that all Californians have access to the outdoors, regardless of their background or location. This strategy maps out how government, public and private partners can collectively build a movement to achieve equitable outdoor access. The full draft strategy, as well as other background information on this initiative, is available for review on CNRA’s website.
Championed by Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, and supported by Legislative investments and policies, the Outdoors for All initiative emphasizes how state government can build on current efforts to increase parks and outdoor space for frontline communities, cultivate an outdoor culture and workforce that reflects California’s diversity, and continue to build strong community partnerships. In 2021, Governor Newsom and the State Legislature committed an unprecedented amount – more than $1 billion – toward Outdoors for All, including $500 million in grants to local communities for parks infrastructure and transportation and education programs, and $500 million to expand access to State Parks and other state facilities through infrastructure and improvements to existing programs.
“California is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and outdoor recreation is part of our identity,” said California Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot. “Yet today, not all Californians can get outside and into nature safely, affordably, and comfortably. Outdoors for All is all about expanding this opportunity to all Californians, with great benefits to families and communities across the state.”
CNRA encourages public feedback on the draft strategy during the 60-day public comment period. Comments and feedback must be received by 5 pm on July 10, and can be submitted in the following ways:
Email:
outdoors@resources.ca.gov
(Please write “Outdoors for All – Public Comment” in the subject line)
U.S. Mail:
California Natural Resources Agency
Attn: Outdoors for All
715 P Street, 20th floor
Sacramento, CA 95814
During the public comment period, CNRA will host a virtual panel, where stakeholders can learn more about the Outdoors for All initiative and provide feedback. Speakers will include CNRA Deputy Director for Access Katherine Toy, California State Parks Director Armando Quintero, and other public and private partners who share the goals of the Outdoors for All initiative. The date for the virtual panel is yet to be determined.
