[OR_Archaeology] NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC TO LAUNCH GEOTOURISM PROJECT

[Susan White]

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC TO LAUNCH GEOTOURISM PROJECT
 
Oregon and Washington Open "Central Cascades MapGuide" for Public Nominations
 
WHAT:        National Geographic, in partnership with Washington and Oregon, will announce the launch of the Central Cascades Geotourism Initiative. The public will be invited to participate in the development of a geotourism "MapGuide" for the Central Cascades region, stretching from Mount Rainier National Park to Crater Lake National Park. A community-based nomination process will be opened where local residents and visitors may nominate unique landmarks, attractions,
activities, events, and businesses that define the region's character and distinctive appeal. A website detailing the project will be unveiled, and a series of community forums in support of the project will be announced. 
 
WHEN:    Wednesday, January 14, 9:00 a.m - 10:00 a.m.
 
WHO: Speakers: Jim Dion, Associate Director, National Geographic Center for Sustainable Destinations
 
Jon Tullis, Director of Public Affairs, Timberline Lodge and member of the Central Cascades Geotourism Stewardship Council
 
Kristin Dahl, Tourism Development and Sustainability Manager, Travel Oregon
 
WHERE: Gerding Theater at the Armory, 128 NW Eleventh Avenue, Portland, Ore.
 
WHY:  According to a 2002 study by National Geographic Traveler magazine and the U.S. Travel Association, more than 55 million adults in the U.S. could be described as "geotourists," who travel to enjoy the distinctive character of places and are willing to help sustain and enhance those qualities for future visitors. These travelers control more than half the household income of all U.S. travelers.
 
National Geographic has joined Oregon and Washington to recognize and celebrate the world-class natural attractions of the Central Cascades. The pilot project seeks to contribute to the economic health of communities by promoting sustainable tourism while acknowledging the sensitive balance between growth and conservation. With the project, the states look to identify and develop product that would be attractive to a "geotourist" as a means to achieve balanced economic development.
 

HOW: The Central Cascades Stewardship Council, representing an assortment of geotourism perspectives including community leadership, historic preservation, natural resources, public lands management, indigenous peoples, traditional and local arts, agriculture, tourism promotion and local businesses, oversees the project with the intent of connecting diverse interests under a common goal. A primary task for the Stewardship Council will be to review and sort nomination submissions prior to sending them to National Geographic. National Geographic will have final say in the selected sites, an estimated total of 150 map points. The MapGuide will be published September 2009.
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