The Michigan Department of Natural Resources announced Friday the creation of the Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry.

The new Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry will expand the outdoor recreation economy, build awareness, anticipate emerging recreation trends, promote outdoor recreation activities, and create support for Michigan’s natural resources, according to the Michigan DNR.

Michigan has over eight million acres of publicly accessible lands, 12,000 miles of trails and the Great Lakes, streams and rivers.

Outdoor recreation in Michigan generates $26.6 billion per year in consumer spending and supports 232,000 direct jobs.

The new office was created in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, on behalf of the Michigan Strategic Fund.