(Radio Iowa) – A new coalition is suggesting time outdoors can be an answer to rising rates of chronic diseases and mental health issues. Chris Perkins is vice president of programs for the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable.
Perkins recently joined Governor Reynolds for an event at a state park near Indianola.
The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable is encouraging employers and insurance companies to offer incentives to people who spend time outside. Perkins says increased physical activity in the outdoors can lower the total cost of health care.
Perkins says the prevalence of electronics and screens in the lives of American children is disconnecting them from the natural world and it’s time to encourage them get outside and develop healthy habits.
State officials say 50-thousand Iowans are employed in outdoor recreation and the industry annually contributes about eight BILLION dollars to Iowa’s economy.
