Over half the jobs in the Moab area relate to the tourism economy – the verifiable economic engine of this rural area. The need to attract different types of business to Moab has been discussed for years. But what are the actual barriers to diversification, and what can be done about it? Plus, the Moab Area Travel Council and the Utah Office of Tourism are funding a strategic plan focused on ‘stewarding’ a thriving destination. Better understanding the experience of visitors and locals will help guide their strategies.

Show Notes:

Photo: Traffic backs up headed into Moab in fall 2020. Transportation officials attributed the seasonal jams to the ‘perfect storm’ of road construction mixed with great weather for visiting. Courtesy Whit Richardson.

Grand County Economic Diversification Action Plan

https://grandcountyutah.net/DocumentCenter/View/10961/Grand-County-Economic-Diversification-Action-Plan

Grand County Economic Diversification Advisory Council Bylaws

https://grandcountyutah.net/DocumentCenter/View/10955/3260_Res-Amend-Economic-Diversification-Advisory-Council-Bylaws

Destination Stewardship Plan

https://www.kzmu.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Destination-Stewardship-Plan.pdf