Jan. 6—Topping this week’s Business Beat agenda is a subject that continues to draw an increasing amount of interest among those in New Mexico’s economic development sector, outdoor recreation.
In the Sunday, Jan. 12, edition of The New Mexican, you can read all about how communities across the state are attempting to diversify their economy by promoting and increasing their inventory of outdoor recreation experiences — be it camping, fishing, hiking, snow sports, boating, four-wheeling, climbing or just relaxing.
New Mexico always has been rich in such experiences, of course, but it wasn’t until the last several years that officials around the state determined they weren’t doing enough to capitalize on those natural advantages.
That new focus appears to be paying off. As a recently released federal report indicates, the state is drawing considerably more outdoor rec business now than it was several years ago. But advocates argue there is still a lot of low-hanging fruit to be plucked — and that outdoor rec someday could rival film and TV production in making an impact on the state’s economic output.
Elsewhere, check out today’s New Mexican Business section for a profile on former Patina Gallery creative director Ivan Barnett, who is in the midst of launching a new coaching and consulting service for artists and art-related businesses, Serious Play LLC. As the name of his new enterprise indicates, Barnett argues that having a good time and enjoying the process are an integral part of achieving success in any creative endeavor — an idea he hopes to find a market for in 2025.