Grand County invites residents to participate in sustainable tourism survey

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Last week, the tourism board launched a sustainable tourism stakeholder survey to ask for public input. The survey is part of the first phase of board’s Study of Sustainable Travel, spearheaded by consultants Coraggio Group. The survey will offer the board insight into how the community feels about tourism, plus its impact on the economy, environment and quality of life for Grand County residents.

By answering the survey, residents can help the board create a plan that positively impacts Grand’s economy, while at the same time preserving quality of life for residents and respecting the area’s beautiful natural environment and delicate ecosystem.

Coraggio Group, a business management consulting firm based in Portland, Oregon, is leading the study. Their tourism practice brings together urban planners, economists, destination strategists and organisational development experts who create a “total destination health” plan for communities. Coraggio Group’s clients have included Travel Oregon, the San Francisco Travel Association, the Arizona Office of Tourism and more.

“We are so excited to be working with Grand County on this project,” said Trever Cartwright, founder of Coraggio Group, in a news release. “Tourism is one of the county’s most important industries, and this plan will ensure tourism continues to be a driving force in the future.”

The board’s study of sustainable travel initiative launched in March and will conclude at the end of October. Residents will be able to see the results of the study in early November. The study’s strategic plan includes three stages:

• Get Clear — virtual immersion sessions, background data review, survey design, analysis and stakeholder engagement
• Get Focused — strategic work planning sessions
• Get Moving — plan finalization work session, board review and revision and strategic plan documentation

“This effort celebrates the importance of tourism to the Grand County community, and it’s important that we engage as many voices as possible from across our county to determine how to balance the future of the tourism industry with the needs of the community through responsible travel practices,” said Ellis.

Ellis explained the Grand County Colorado Tourism Board realized that sustainable tourism has become a topic of concern for resort destinations around the globe.

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