Peak Perspectives

Welcome to Pathways & Progress, the official quarterly newsletter of the Frostburg Outdoor Recreation Economy Institute (FOREI). Through this publication, FOREI will share updates, news, upcoming events, and opportunities that are shaping the outdoor recreation economy across Appalachia Maryland and the broader region.

As summer gives way to fall, a new semester brings renewed energy to the Frostburg State University campus and across our region. It’s also a fitting time to share the second edition of Pathways & Progress. Over the past few months, we’ve continued building partnerships, supporting outdoor businesses, and advancing opportunities that connect outdoor recreation with economic and community development. We’re excited to share what’s been happening and what’s ahead.

Thank you for your interest in FOREI’s work! If you know somebody that would be interested in joining us on this adventure, please share the newsletter where they can join our mailing list HERE.

Jeffrey Simcoe – Executive Director & Mark Bowling – Program Coordinator

Workforce Wayfinder

FOREI continues to advance outdoor recreation workforce development in Western Maryland and beyond through its participation on the National Outdoor Recreation Workforce Development Consortium Steering Committee. This national collaboration brings together education, industry, and outdoor recreation leaders to strengthen career pathways and address workforce needs across the sector. That work will be showcased through a workforce-focused webinar on September 14, highlighting strategies and opportunities shaping the future of the outdoor recreation workforce.

Please join us for this important event - details and registration link can be found below!

National Outdoor Recreation Workforce Webinar: On 9/14 at 1 PM ET, Outdoor Recreation Roundtable is hosting a webinar to release its newest resource, “Outdoor Workforce Policy Priorities.” This new resource will help guide cross-cutting state and federal policies to support the 5.2 million-strong outdoor recreation workforce—a vital sector of the U.S. economy. Participants will learn about the new priorities, crafted with the input of industry voices, colleges, universities, and trade schools, and hear from leading voices about the future of the outdoor recreation workforce. 

To register, click here.

Check out this article from Trailheads by Switchback highlighting FOREI's engagement with Founded Outdoors.

The Ripple Effect: How Founded Outdoors Sparks Change in Local Outdoor Economies

Backcountry Briefs

Let's Celebrate Maryland's Newest State Park!

Maryland’s newest state park, Savage Highlands State Park, is now welcoming visitors in Garrett County. The park provides a new gateway to more than 55,000 acres of Savage River State Forest, with trails, yurts, campsites, cabins, and year-round recreation opportunities. This significant investment expands public access while strengthening Western Maryland’s growing outdoor recreation economy. Read the full Maryland DNR article to learn more.

Maryland's 3rd Annual Outdoor Recreation Summit

The 2026 Maryland Outdoor Recreation Summit heads to Ocean City, September 29–October 1, bringing together more than 200 outdoor recreation leaders from across Maryland. Programming includes presentations, hands-on workshops, lightning talks, networking, outdoor excursions, and the Rec Trek. FOREI's Executive Director, Jeffrey Simcoe, serves on the Summit Planning Committee, helping shape this statewide gathering.

The Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour

The Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour returns to Garrett County, bringing inspiring films celebrating adventure, outdoor recreation, and remarkable stories from around the world. FOREI is proud to sponsor the event and will have a booth on site. Purchase your tickets, enjoy the films, and stop by the FOREI booth to learn more about our programs and join the conversation!

Congratulations and Well Done!

Congratulations to FOREI's Program Coordinator, Mark Bowling, on completing the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) Single Pitch Instructor program and successfully passing the certification exam! The nationally recognized program develops skills in climbing instruction, technical systems, and risk management. Mark’s certification expands FOREI’s internal expertise and capacity to support climbing-related workforce development, outdoor programming, and future partnerships across the region.

If you're interested in a local AMGA SPI course, the Garrett College Outdoor Leadership & Adventure Education team will be offering a course in October. Follow this link for more information.