Ulster County Tourism Announces Public Input Sessions for Sustainable Tourism Plan
KINGSTON, NY - Ulster County Tourism invites residents, business owners, and community stakeholders to help shape the future of tourism in Ulster County by participating in a series of public input sessions for the County’s Sustainable Tourism Strategic Plan.
The Sustainable Tourism Strategic Plan will guide Ulster County in growing its tourism economy while safeguarding the natural, cultural, and social assets that make the region unique. Sustainable tourism prioritizes low-impact travel, supports locally owned businesses, and helps to ensure that tourism dollars stay in the community. It means protecting mountain trails from overuse, preserving farmland and historic sites, and promoting experiences that reflect the authentic character of our towns and villages. The plan will outline strategies to reduce carbon emissions from travel, promote year-round visitation to ease seasonal pressures, and ensure that tourism investments benefit residents as much as visitors.
Ulster County Tourism will host three public input sessions to gather ideas, feedback, and priorities from across the County. The sessions are designed to ensure a community-driven approach to tourism planning, growth, and management:
- Monday, October 27 at 6:30 PM – Reformed Church of New Paltz, Fireside Room, 92 Huguenot Street, New Paltz
- Tuesday, October 28 at 3 PM – Marlborough Community Center, Community Room, 1520 Route 9W, Marlboro
- Tuesday, October 28 at 6:30 PM – Catskill Visitors Center, 5096 Route 28, Mount Tremper
“These public sessions are a vital opportunity for our community to help shape the future of tourism in Ulster County,” said Lisa Berger, Director of Ulster County Tourism. “We want to hear from residents and stakeholders from every corner of the County so that our tourism plan supports local businesses, protects our environment, and reflects the unique character of our communities.”
“Sustainable tourism is about protecting the natural assets, cultural heritage, and quality of life that our residents enjoy and that draw millions of visitors a year, while supporting local businesses and creating new economic opportunities," said Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger. “These sessions are a chance for the public to help guide a long-term vision that balances growth with stewardship, and I encourage everyone to be part of this important conversation.”
To lead this effort, Ulster County has partnered with Beyond Green Travel, a globally respected sustainable tourism consultancy founded by Costas Christ. Now operating as Beyond Green Consulting under Preferred Travel Group, the firm is led by Nina Boys, Vice President of Sustainability and Beyond Green, who works with destinations around the world to develop strategic plans that drive positive impact for local nature, culture, and community.
By aligning tourism growth with environmental stewardship and community well-being, Ulster County can offer meaningful experiences while protecting the places people love — for generations to come.
For more information about the sessions and the Sustainable Tourism Plan, visit https://participate.ulstercountyny.gov/sustainable-tourism
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