Inaugural W.Va. Outdoor Economy Summit to unite leaders around $2.1 billion growth

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia’s outdoors are more than a scenic backdrop. They're a strategic economic asset. That message will take center stage February 17–18, 2026, when leaders from across the state and region convene for the inaugural West Virginia Outdoor Economy Summit at the Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center.

Presented by the Charleston Convention and Visitors Bureau, the two-day event is hosted by The Nature Conservancy and the WVU Brad & Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative and marks the first statewide, cross-sector gathering focused exclusively on advancing West Virginia’s outdoor economy—a sector generating an estimated $2.1 billion annually.

On February 19, the momentum carries with West Virginia Outdoor Recreation Day at the state capitol, where representatives of the outdoor economy will engage with legislators.

“This summit is about recognizing that our outdoor recreation assets are valuable, rare, and difficult to replicate, and that makes them a powerful economic development strategy,” said Dr. Danny Twilley, Assistant Vice President of Economic and Community Development for the Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative.

“If we invest intentionally, the outdoor economy can help address one of West Virginia’s greatest challenges: population loss and brain drain, while enhancing the quality of life for our citizens.”

A Strategic Conversation for the State’s Future

Over two days, participants from tourism, conservation, outdoor recreation, entrepreneurship, workforce development, nonprofits, and government will engage in working sessions designed to move beyond discussion and toward coordinated action.

On February 19, summit leaders will take those conversations to the State Capitol, sharing insights with lawmakers on how outdoor recreation supports talent attraction, business growth, and long-term community vitality.

According to Twilley, other states and Appalachian regions have already demonstrated what’s possible when quality of life becomes a core economic strategy.

“Places like Idaho, Colorado, Utah, eastern Tennessee, and western North Carolina invested in their outdoor assets first. People moved there because they wanted to live there, and businesses followed. West Virginia has the same opportunity, and in many ways, the same or better natural advantages.”

West Virginia boasts some of the nation’s highest concentrations of world-class whitewater, rock climbing, hunting and fishing, off-highway vehicle trails, and rapidly expanding trail systems. Asset mapping shows the state has both the scale and diversity to compete nationally, provided investments focus on quality, accessibility, and community integration.

Who Should Attend

The summit is designed for anyone committed to West Virginia’s future and the role its outdoors play in shaping it, including:

• Outdoor Industry Leaders — Outfitters, guides, and recreation-based businesses
• Community Builders & Nonprofits — Expanding access and participation statewide
• Policy & Government Leaders — Shaping infrastructure, land use, and investment
• Agency Support Partners — Keeping the outdoor economy moving forward
• Students & Young Professionals — Building careers in the outdoor sector

“If you care about West Virginia—its people, its communities, and its landscapes—you belong at this summit,” said Twilley. “This is about creating a shared narrative and a collective voice. We are not isolated organizations. We are an industry, and that matters when we advocate for smart, long-term investment.”

Tourism as the Front Door to Residency

Summit discussions will also explore the proven link between tourism growth and population growth. Research shows that tourism often precedes population increases by five to seven years, as visitors begin asking, "Can I live here?" Can I start a business here? Can I retire here? Can I buy a second home?"

“Tourism is West Virginia’s red carpet,” Twilley said. “When people have a great experience here, it opens the door to deeper commitments—relocating, investing, and putting down roots.”

A First Step Toward a Shared Vision

Organizers emphasize that the summit is not about promoting a single solution, but positioning the outdoor economy as a critical piece of a broader economic development strategy alongside education, infrastructure, workforce development, and energy.

“This is about stewardship, health, conservation, recreation, and economic development working together,” Twilley said. “Our outdoors are our secret sauce. If we lean into them and do it well, West Virginia’s best days are ahead.”

For registration details and updates, visit the official West Virginia Outdoor Economy Summit website at WVOutdoorEconomy.com.