Reimagining Tourism and Recreation through Destination Stewardship

Key West, Fla. – April 17, 2023 – The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation and the NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries are hosting a discussion on the topic of “destination stewardship,” or how recreation and sustainable tourism can protect both the cultural and natural systems in marine areas while supporting equitable experiences.

When:  April 22, 2023, 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm ET

Where:  Key West Marriott Beachside Hotel, 3841 North Roosevelt Boulevard, Key West FL, 33040

Who: Recreation and tourism businesses; local, state and federal government officials; and marine conservation and cultural heritage organizations.

Julie Heizer, Deputy Director of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Travel & Tourism Office, will give a keynote address.

The public can register to attend at: https://secure.givelively.org/event/national-marine-sanctuary-foundation/blue-beacon-reimagining-tourism-and-recreation-through-destination-stewardship

The event is generously supported by Yamaha.

What: Recreation and tourism are powerful economic engines, supporting local, regional, national, and international economies. These drivers bolster communities near many national marine sanctuaries. NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries is the trustee for a network of underwater parks encompassing more than 620,000 square miles of marine and Great Lakes waters. The spectacular wildlife and allure of outdoor activities make National Marine Sanctuaries destinations for both recreation and tourism. As an example, the communities adjacent to Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary receive over 5 million domestic and international tourists annually. Within the Sanctuary System are also the traditional lands and waters of many Native American tribes, Native Hawaiian, Native Samoan, and other Indigenous people.

According to NOAA’s most recent economic data, marine-based recreation and sustainable tourism employ nearly 2.5 million people, and contribute about $143 billion to the annual U.S. gross domestic products. Marine resource managers must plan for heightened levels of tourism and consider how to build resiliency in partnership with communities and industry.

In a “destination stewardship” approach, when used collaboratively by National Marine Sanctuaries and communities, recreation and sustainable tourism can protect both the cultural and natural systems in marine areas while supporting equitable experiences. Use of a destination stewardship framework will retain and enhance the distinctive attributes that will also make the destination (Sanctuaries) and gateway communities more attractive for responsible tourism. Destinations, such as National Marine Sanctuaries, that promote a regenerative economy centered in sustainable tourism, support healthy marine environments, a prosperous blue economy and thriving businesses, and enhanced quality of life and recreation for its communities.

Registration and tickets for Blue Beacon Series: Reimagining Tourism and Recreation through Destination Stewardship are now available: https://secure.givelively.org/event/national-marine-sanctuary-foundation/blue-beacon-reimagining-tourism-and-recreation-through-destination-stewardship

For information on covering this event as a member of the media, access to panelists or sessions, or any other questions, please contact Chip Weiskotten, [email protected], 518-669-3936.

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