Vermont Outdoor Business Alliance
Gary Moore
January 15, 2026
The Vermont Outdoor Business Alliance, or VOBA, is a statewide non-profit organization of outdoor recreation businesses devoted to enhancing and promoting the many things I and many of you love to do in the outdoors.
Governor Scott established the Vermont Outdoor Recreation Economic Collaboration, VOREC, in 2017. It is a state program administered by the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation and the Agency of Commerce and Community Development.
VOREC spurred Vermont outdoor industry leaders to found VOBA in 2018 to work alongside VOREC to enhance the economic opportunities outdoor recreation has historically provided Vermont.
Its mission statement says in part, “VOBA educates Vermonters on outdoor recreation and educates businesses on business development, collaboration initiatives, and outdoor recreation policy.
“VOBA and its members are dedicated to conservation of the natural landscape, stewardship of recreation infrastructure, and diversity, equity, and inclusion in work spaces and outdoor places.”
Since 2019 Kelly Ault has been the Executive Director, leading the organization. Kelly came to Vermont in 1995 to be the Business Project Director on land conservation, sustainable forestry, and nature-and culture-based tourism with the Northern Forest Alliance (Appalachian Mountain Club).
I interviewed Kelly for my program broadcast on WYKR last Thursday. What follows is some of what we discussed that impacts those of us who recreate outdoors.
VOBA represents over 150 outdoor businesses and organizations involved in education, business and workforce development and sector branding.
VOBA participated in the Move Forward Together Vermont statewide planning process that took place in 2024. It was administered by VOREC to identify a five year vision for Vermont’s outdoor economy.
VOBA’s plan for 2025-2030 is centered on the impact of climate resilience and equity, innovation and sustainability and career pathways.
VOBA’s focus is in five areas: networking and learning, business development & technical assistance, research and branding, workforce development and advocacy.
An example of the later is the Vermont Outdoor Rec Day to be held at the Statehouse on February 5. VOBA members and outdoor enthusiasts will spend the day meeting with and educating lawmakers on the importance of outdoor recreation and the businesses it supports. They will be sure to provide data from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) which demonstrates outdoor recreation’s significant and growing economic impact on Vermont’s economy.
In 2023, outdoor recreation created $2.1 billion in value added for Vermont, accounting for 4.8% of Vermont’s GDP. This makes Vermont second in the country, behind Hawaii, for highest contribution to State gross domestic product (GDP).
According to the BEA report, manufacturing and retail saw significant revenue increases from 2022. In 2023, manufacturing of outdoor goods in Vermont grew to $135 million, an increase of 15% and retail sales to just under $412.8 million, an increase of 4.5%.
The overall outdoor workforce also increased in 2023 according to the BEA, including the number of manufacturing employees which grew over 12% from 2022.
The BEA report indicates that in 2023 significant growth came from accommodation and food services which grew to $733.5 million, an increase of over 9%. Employment in accommodation and food services also grew almost 3%.
Kelly pointed out that, “Tour operations across the state grew 8.1% in 2023 which gives visibility to Vermont’s outdoor destinations.”
VOBA holds meetings around the state for strategic planning, initiative development and issue discussions to develop collaborations among its members and others in the industry.
An Annual Vermont Gear Makers Festival Market celebrates local makers of outdoor gear and accessories and is a great way to get noticed.
The Annual Vermont Outdoor Economy Summit, which was held last fall at Burke Mountain, is always a big draw that encourages education and networking. I have attended two and found both very informative.
Industry meetups that connect colleagues at businesses or outdoor destinations around the state are another valuable undertaking that I have also found educational.
An example of workforce development is the training of bicycle mechanics and ski tuners and other skills the outdoor businesses rely on to be successful.
To learn more about VOBA go to: https://www.vermontoutdoorbusinessalliance.org/. The industry it represents is of great importance to Vermont.
Bits and Pieces
The annual Yankee Sportsman’s Classic show will be held January 16, 17 and 18 at the Champlain Valley Expo in Essex Junction.
Show hours are noon to 6 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Learn more about the show at: http://yankeeclassic.net.
Both Vermont Fish and Wildlife and New Hampshire Fish and Game will have booths and staff to answer your questions.
***
The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department reminds anglers of some new rules related to panfish daily bag limits and the sale of angler caught fish that are now in effect.
A new regulation defines “Panfish” as Bluegill, Bullhead, Black Crappie, White Crappie, Pumpkinseed, Rock Bass, and Yellow Perch. For most waters other than Lake Champlain and the Connecticut River, anglers may only take a total of 50 panfish per day, no more than 25 of which may be Crappies.
Daily panfish bag limits have not changed for Lake Champlain, where the daily limit for Crappies is 25, with no limits on the other panfish species. New Hampshire’s fishing regulations apply on the Connecticut River.
The new rule prohibits buying or selling Black Crappie or White Crappie in Vermont in order to protect and conserve quality fishing opportunities for crappie.
The recent regulation change also now requires anglers who sell panfish or other species harvested in Vermont to have a Fish Seller’s Endorsement on their fishing license. This endorsement is free and can be easily applied to the license at the time of purchase or renewal.
***
The New Hampshire Coverts Project is accepting applications from new volunteers interested in taking part in the 2026 NH Coverts Project volunteer training workshop on May 6–9 at the Barbara C. Harris Conference Center in Greenfield.
Since its beginning in 1995, the NH Coverts Project has trained over 500 volunteers in promoting wildlife conservation and forest stewardship throughout the state. Each year, 25 conservation-minded residents connect with a team of natural resource professionals to learn more about wildlife and forest ecology, habitat management, land conservation, and effective outreach to share their new knowledge. There is a $50 registration fee, but sponsors cover all other program costs. In exchange for the training, participants commit to volunteer at least 40 hours of their time during the coming year to educate and motivate others to become stewards of the state's wildlife and forest resources.
To apply for this year’s NH Coverts Project training, download and complete the 2026 NH Coverts Project Application at nhcoverts.org. The deadline for applications is March 1, 2026. For more information, visit the project website at nhcoverts.org or contact Project Coordinator Haley Andreozzi at haley.andreozzi@unh.edu or 603-862-5327.
***
Mark Breen reports in the Fairbanks Museum's Skywatch Almanac that on January 13, 2018: “Severe winter weather started with a surge of warmth, reaching a record 61°F in Burlington, creating damaging ice-jam flooding in northwest VT, followed by 6 to 12 inches of snow west of the Green Mountains on the 14th.”
January 15, 2009: “An arctic outbreak created a rare case of waterspouts on Lake Champlain, the result of air temperatures below zero, and water near 32°F.”
Parting Shots
Regular readers know I enjoy working in our woods nine months of the year, felling trees, skidding them to the road network and then cutting and splitting them to make the seven or eight cords of firewood we burn each year. I do that at my leisure, often as a stress reliever or mind clearer. If I am just staring at my computer and accomplishing nothing, an hour or two in the woods with my tractor and chainsaw often brings back focus so I can return to my office and get done what I need to do. Likewise, if I am in a foul mood, time working in the woods improves my outlook on life and I return a calmer, much nicer person.
However, it is the the other end of the firewood cycle that I do not enjoy. That is the constant need to haul the wood into the house from the two woodsheds on opposite sides. You see we have three wood stoves. One is an antique cookstove in the kitchen that we use a few times a week. It devours wood as it is the antithesis of airtight. A large Dutch West stove in the cellar and a Woodstock Soapstone in the living room are in use 24/7 from about mid October to mid April. Oh, and did I mention the ashes?
Despite my complaining I love our wood fires. There is no other heat source that can compare to sitting by one of the stoves after coming in from the cold.
***
I keep being asked how Linda is doing so it is time for an update. She had chemo paused and started 10 days of radiation Thursday. The plan is to resume chemo two weeks after she completes radiation on January 21.
Thank you for your prayers, calls, emails and cards.
Syndicated columnist Gary W. Moore may be reached by e-mail at gwmoore1946@icloud.com or at Box 454, Bradford, VT 05033.
copyright 2026 Gary W. Moore
Governor Scott established the Vermont Outdoor Recreation Economic Collaboration, VOREC, in 2017. It is a state program administered by the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation and the Agency of Commerce and Community Development.
VOREC spurred Vermont outdoor industry leaders to found VOBA in 2018 to work alongside VOREC to enhance the economic opportunities outdoor recreation has historically provided Vermont.
Its mission statement says in part, “VOBA educates Vermonters on outdoor recreation and educates businesses on business development, collaboration initiatives, and outdoor recreation policy.
“VOBA and its members are dedicated to conservation of the natural landscape, stewardship of recreation infrastructure, and diversity, equity, and inclusion in work spaces and outdoor places.”
Since 2019 Kelly Ault has been the Executive Director, leading the organization. Kelly came to Vermont in 1995 to be the Business Project Director on land conservation, sustainable forestry, and nature-and culture-based tourism with the Northern Forest Alliance (Appalachian Mountain Club).
I interviewed Kelly for my program broadcast on WYKR last Thursday. What follows is some of what we discussed that impacts those of us who recreate outdoors.
VOBA represents over 150 outdoor businesses and organizations involved in education, business and workforce development and sector branding.
VOBA participated in the Move Forward Together Vermont statewide planning process that took place in 2024. It was administered by VOREC to identify a five year vision for Vermont’s outdoor economy.
VOBA’s plan for 2025-2030 is centered on the impact of climate resilience and equity, innovation and sustainability and career pathways.
VOBA’s focus is in five areas: networking and learning, business development & technical assistance, research and branding, workforce development and advocacy.
An example of the later is the Vermont Outdoor Rec Day to be held at the Statehouse on February 5. VOBA members and outdoor enthusiasts will spend the day meeting with and educating lawmakers on the importance of outdoor recreation and the businesses it supports. They will be sure to provide data from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) which demonstrates outdoor recreation’s significant and growing economic impact on Vermont’s economy.
In 2023, outdoor recreation created $2.1 billion in value added for Vermont, accounting for 4.8% of Vermont’s GDP. This makes Vermont second in the country, behind Hawaii, for highest contribution to State gross domestic product (GDP).
According to the BEA report, manufacturing and retail saw significant revenue increases from 2022. In 2023, manufacturing of outdoor goods in Vermont grew to $135 million, an increase of 15% and retail sales to just under $412.8 million, an increase of 4.5%.
The overall outdoor workforce also increased in 2023 according to the BEA, including the number of manufacturing employees which grew over 12% from 2022.
The BEA report indicates that in 2023 significant growth came from accommodation and food services which grew to $733.5 million, an increase of over 9%. Employment in accommodation and food services also grew almost 3%.
Kelly pointed out that, “Tour operations across the state grew 8.1% in 2023 which gives visibility to Vermont’s outdoor destinations.”
VOBA holds meetings around the state for strategic planning, initiative development and issue discussions to develop collaborations among its members and others in the industry.
An Annual Vermont Gear Makers Festival Market celebrates local makers of outdoor gear and accessories and is a great way to get noticed.
The Annual Vermont Outdoor Economy Summit, which was held last fall at Burke Mountain, is always a big draw that encourages education and networking. I have attended two and found both very informative.
Industry meetups that connect colleagues at businesses or outdoor destinations around the state are another valuable undertaking that I have also found educational.
An example of workforce development is the training of bicycle mechanics and ski tuners and other skills the outdoor businesses rely on to be successful.
To learn more about VOBA go to: https://www.vermontoutdoorbusinessalliance.org/. The industry it represents is of great importance to Vermont.
Bits and Pieces
The annual Yankee Sportsman’s Classic show will be held January 16, 17 and 18 at the Champlain Valley Expo in Essex Junction.
Show hours are noon to 6 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Learn more about the show at: http://yankeeclassic.net.
Both Vermont Fish and Wildlife and New Hampshire Fish and Game will have booths and staff to answer your questions.
***
The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department reminds anglers of some new rules related to panfish daily bag limits and the sale of angler caught fish that are now in effect.
A new regulation defines “Panfish” as Bluegill, Bullhead, Black Crappie, White Crappie, Pumpkinseed, Rock Bass, and Yellow Perch. For most waters other than Lake Champlain and the Connecticut River, anglers may only take a total of 50 panfish per day, no more than 25 of which may be Crappies.
Daily panfish bag limits have not changed for Lake Champlain, where the daily limit for Crappies is 25, with no limits on the other panfish species. New Hampshire’s fishing regulations apply on the Connecticut River.
The new rule prohibits buying or selling Black Crappie or White Crappie in Vermont in order to protect and conserve quality fishing opportunities for crappie.
The recent regulation change also now requires anglers who sell panfish or other species harvested in Vermont to have a Fish Seller’s Endorsement on their fishing license. This endorsement is free and can be easily applied to the license at the time of purchase or renewal.
***
The New Hampshire Coverts Project is accepting applications from new volunteers interested in taking part in the 2026 NH Coverts Project volunteer training workshop on May 6–9 at the Barbara C. Harris Conference Center in Greenfield.
Since its beginning in 1995, the NH Coverts Project has trained over 500 volunteers in promoting wildlife conservation and forest stewardship throughout the state. Each year, 25 conservation-minded residents connect with a team of natural resource professionals to learn more about wildlife and forest ecology, habitat management, land conservation, and effective outreach to share their new knowledge. There is a $50 registration fee, but sponsors cover all other program costs. In exchange for the training, participants commit to volunteer at least 40 hours of their time during the coming year to educate and motivate others to become stewards of the state's wildlife and forest resources.
To apply for this year’s NH Coverts Project training, download and complete the 2026 NH Coverts Project Application at nhcoverts.org. The deadline for applications is March 1, 2026. For more information, visit the project website at nhcoverts.org or contact Project Coordinator Haley Andreozzi at haley.andreozzi@unh.edu or 603-862-5327.
***
Mark Breen reports in the Fairbanks Museum's Skywatch Almanac that on January 13, 2018: “Severe winter weather started with a surge of warmth, reaching a record 61°F in Burlington, creating damaging ice-jam flooding in northwest VT, followed by 6 to 12 inches of snow west of the Green Mountains on the 14th.”
January 15, 2009: “An arctic outbreak created a rare case of waterspouts on Lake Champlain, the result of air temperatures below zero, and water near 32°F.”
Parting Shots
Regular readers know I enjoy working in our woods nine months of the year, felling trees, skidding them to the road network and then cutting and splitting them to make the seven or eight cords of firewood we burn each year. I do that at my leisure, often as a stress reliever or mind clearer. If I am just staring at my computer and accomplishing nothing, an hour or two in the woods with my tractor and chainsaw often brings back focus so I can return to my office and get done what I need to do. Likewise, if I am in a foul mood, time working in the woods improves my outlook on life and I return a calmer, much nicer person.
However, it is the the other end of the firewood cycle that I do not enjoy. That is the constant need to haul the wood into the house from the two woodsheds on opposite sides. You see we have three wood stoves. One is an antique cookstove in the kitchen that we use a few times a week. It devours wood as it is the antithesis of airtight. A large Dutch West stove in the cellar and a Woodstock Soapstone in the living room are in use 24/7 from about mid October to mid April. Oh, and did I mention the ashes?
Despite my complaining I love our wood fires. There is no other heat source that can compare to sitting by one of the stoves after coming in from the cold.
***
I keep being asked how Linda is doing so it is time for an update. She had chemo paused and started 10 days of radiation Thursday. The plan is to resume chemo two weeks after she completes radiation on January 21.
Thank you for your prayers, calls, emails and cards.
Syndicated columnist Gary W. Moore may be reached by e-mail at gwmoore1946@icloud.com or at Box 454, Bradford, VT 05033.
copyright 2026 Gary W. Moore
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