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RC&D SUCCESS STORIES |
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Contact name: Gary Boring New River-Highlands RC&D Council 100 USDA Drive, Suite F Wytheville, VA 24382 276-228-2879 Fax 276-228-4367
Category: Rural Development
Story Title: New River-Highlands RC&D Outfitters Directory
Story Description: The New River-Highlands RC&D Outfitters Directory project will include the development of a directory of outfitters that provide outdoor recreation services in the area. The second phase includes promotion of the outfitters directory at Outdoor Trade Shows. The project will enhance the recreation and tourism industry in the area and increase promotion and advertisement of participating outfitters. The project was to develop and promote an outfitter directory for the area. The goal was accomplished by implementing the following actions: Identified outfitters providing services in the area; Developed and published a directory of the outfitters in the area; Provided membership to the Blue Ridge Travel Association for identified outfitters; Promoted the outfitters directory at three Outdoor Trade Shows; and Secured an advertisement in the Blue Ridge Travel Guide. A database of outdoor outfitters was developed that includes the name, services provided, contact person, phone number, web site address and email address for each. The database was compiled using phone directories, business licenses, personal contacts, special permits for US Forest Service lands, state parks, and existing staff knowledge. Outfitters participating in the directory were offered a one-year membership in the Blue Ridge Travel Association at a reduced fee. This service will provided enhanced promotion and advertising for the individual outfitters. This increased promotion will result in increased bookings. The outfitters directory was be promoted at three Outdoor Trade Shows in 2003 and 2004 through the Blue Ridge Travel Association.
Total Project Value: $33,100
Benefits: - 39 outfitters promoted through the outfitters guide - 100,000 outfitters guides distributed through 15 visitors centers - outfitters promoted at 4 outdoor trade shows
TO RECEIVE A COPY OF THE OUTFITTERS DIRECTORY CALL: New River-Highlands RC&D Council at 276-228-2879 |
