Charged with Enhancing State's Status as Leading Destination for Outdoor Recreation

ANNAPOLIS, MD-Governor Larry Hogan today visited the Black Girls Dive Foundation and The City Ranch Inc. in Baltimore County, which have been named Maryland Outdoor Recreation Ambassadors in recognition of their efforts to promote and expand access to Maryland's outdoor recreation opportunities.

Naming Maryland Outdoor Recreation Ambassadors was a recommendation of the Maryland Outdoor Recreation Economic (MORE) Commission, which was established by Governor Hogan in 2017. As part of their responsibilities, ambassadors will continue working to enhance the state's status as a leading destination for outdoor recreation.

Black Girls Dive Foundation. Located in Randallstown, the Black Girls Dive Foundation empowers and encourages young Black women to be involved in recreational swimming and diving; ocean-related science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) academic pursuits; and environmental stewardship.

The City Ranch Inc. Located in Windsor Mill, this nonprofit equestrian center provides horseback riding and educational opportunities for youth in the Baltimore region, bringing the horses to children. The City Ranch Inc. has worked with Baltimore children and school groups for over 30 years, working with school groups, teaching private and group lessons, and being involved in parties and events, including partnering with the Maryland Department of Agriculture to bring horses to the Maryland State Fair.

The outdoor recreation economy in Maryland generates 109,000 direct jobs, $14 billion in consumer spending, $4.4 billion in wages and salaries, and $951 million in state and local tax revenue.

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