Health Benefits of Contact With Nature

Abstract

Sara Perrins and Dr. Gregory Bratman of the University of Washington, College of Forest Resources, prepared this report for the Recreation and Conservation Office.

This study was directed by the Washington State Legislature in Section 304 (3) of the 2018 operating budget, as stated: Section 304 (3) $125,000 of the general fund—state appropriation for fiscal year 2019 is provided solely for the board to conduct or contract for a study of the economic and health benefits of trail-based activities, including hiking, walking, and bicycling. The information gathered will assist in decision-making regarding the allocation of dedicated resources and investment in Washington’s trail networks. Additionally, the information will aid in increasing and leveraging economic benefits in the development of public-private partnerships aimed at stewardship and growth connected to Washington’s trail networks. The study may include, but is not limited to, analysis of the number of people in the state who hike, bike, and walk annually, economic contribution, environmental and social benefits, and mental and physical health outcomes. The study may also include regional case studies. As appropriate, the analysis must incorporate data from the state comprehensive outdoor recreation plan and federal initiatives to integrate outdoor recreation into GDP accounting. To allow for a collaborative process, the board must create an advisory committee of appropriate agencies and stakeholders, including hiking and bicycling groups. The board must report the results of the study to the appropriate fiscal and policy committees of the legislature by October 1, 2019.

This specific look at health effects and nature contact accompanies an economic study conducted by EcoNorthwest in 2019 titled Economic, Environmental, and Social Benefits of Recreation Trails in Washington State.