economic development potential . Having previously managed the trail system development at Greylock Glen , he sees such projects as powerful demonstrations of how state , local , and private resources can collaborate to increase access and create economic opportunities in rural communities .
Looking Ahead
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By joining the Outdoor Recreation Learning Network , organized by the National Governors Association in 2019 , Jahnige is positioning Massachusetts to be at the forefront of inclusive and innovative outdoor recreation policy . The network allows governors and their outdoor recreation leaders to share and explore strategies to maximize economic , health , and conservation benefits from their states ' natural and cultural assets .
Importantly , Jahnige is committed to making outdoor recreation welcoming and accessible . “ We want to ensure that outdoor recreation in Massachusetts is as inclusive , diverse , and accessible as possible ,” he says . This commitment aligns perfectly with the Healey – Driscoll administration ’ s priorities of equity and inclusiveness .
“ Paul is the ideal person to lead this important initiative ,” says Jenny Haskell , president of Berkshire Natural Resources Council . “ His depth of experience and strong relationships with agencies and nonprofits across Massachusetts will help him promote investment in trails , parks , and nature reserves in the Berkshires and beyond , both for human recreation and for the benefit of nature itself .”
Jahnige represents a new vision for outdoor recreation — one that sees nature not just as a resource , but as a critical component of public health , community well-being , and economic development . As Massachusetts ’ first director of outdoor recreation , he is poised to transform how the Commonwealth approaches and values its natural spaces .
“ What ’ s really exciting about the Berkshires is the intersection between the outdoor recreation economy and the creative economy ,” Jahnige says . “ This combination provides an opportunity to attract visitors from neighboring states who might otherwise spend their tourism dollars elsewhere .”
Outdoors for All
The Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation ( MOOR ) champions outdoor recreation across the state , from hiking and biking to hunting and fishing , from paddling and sailing to birdwatching and stargazing . Its mission centers on three core pillars :
Promote : Attract visitors and engage residents in outdoor activities . Include : Create the most welcoming and accessible outdoor recreation environment . Sustain : Balance growth of natural resources with community and economic development .
Current programs and future initiatives of MOOR :
Inclusive Events Grants : Supporting diverse outdoor programming , including recent awards to Berkshire Black Economic Council and Seeing Rainbows . Check their website for the next round : Summer 2025 .
“ Trails for All ": Expanding access for low-income communities , people of color , and individuals with disabilities in woodland areas .
Mountain Biking Development : Awarding $ 300,000 in December 2024 for trails in Lanesborough , Hancock , and Williamstown , partnering with New England Mountain Bike Association . Next RFPs ( Request for Proposals ): Fall 2025 .
Digital Resources : Developing a statewide recreation database inspired by Berkshires Outside ( berkshiresoutside . org ). n
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For more information , go to mass . gov / orgs / the-massachusetts-office-of-outdoor-recreation
58 // BERKSHIRE MAGAZINE Holiday 2023