Outdoor Industry Applauds Nomination of Sally Jewell for Secretary of the Interior

Boulder, Colo., Feb. 6, 2013 — Outdoor Industry Association commends President Obama for nominating Sally Jewell to become the 51st Secretary of the Department of the Interior.

"As we approach the National Parks Centennial celebration in 2016 and given the need for the nation to advance an economic vision for our nation’s public lands, Sally Jewell is uniquely qualified to serve as the next Secretary of the Interior,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, president and CEO of Outdoor Industry Association. "Ms. Jewell recognizes that our nation’s natural resources support the economy, local communities and the people whose lives depend on having access to quality places in the great outdoors. Treasury secretaries are chosen from the investment world, so it is appropriate that a Secretary for the Interior would be nominated from the outdoor recreation business world.”

The Secretary of the Interior oversees a department vital to the country’s economic recovery and is tasked with the protection and preservation of America’s natural resources, cultural and tribal communities, and our public lands legacy. Balancing all of these needs will require a candidate with a proven background in public lands, success in the business world and a firm commitment to citizen engagement.

Ms. Jewell’s accomplished background positions her well to manage Interior’s large portfolio of public land and water. Her work in the private sector as a petroleum engineer, a successful banker, and the chief executive of a 10,000-employee national retail chain represents the diversity and expertise needed to be a leader in Washington, D.C. Her experience will ensure that the nation’s public lands infrastructure remains a crucial component of America’s economic recovery, sustainable energy extraction, renewables development, conservation and recreation — elements critical to the success of the Department of the Interior.

Nearly half of all Americans participate in outdoor activities every year, spending $646 billion pursuing these activities each year and supporting more than 6.1 million sustainable American jobs.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is the leading trade association for the outdoor industry and the title sponsor of Outdoor Retailer. OIA supports the growth and success of more than 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives, and retailers of outdoor recreation apparel, footwear, equipment and services. For more information, go to outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.