National Geographic Unveils New Geotourism MapGuide

Sustainable tourism guide to be unveiled on January 19. Sustainable Northwest helped coordinate the site selection process.

WHAT: The National Geographic Society will unveil its latest Geotourism MapGuide Tuesday. Created from 1,200+ nominations by local residents and business owners, the MapGuide features more than 200 geotourism sites. Points of interest include cultural, recreational, agricultural, natural and geological attractions and activities that promote sustainable travel throughout the Central Cascades, as well as full-color photography from Northwest photographers and the famed National Geographic cartography.

The Central Cascades MapGuide will be available via www.TheCentralCascades.com and other distribution channels.

WHEN: Tuesday, January 19, 9:00 a.m - 10:00 a.m. Refreshments provided. John Francis, PhD, Vice President for Research, Conservation

WHO: Speakers: and Exploration, National Geographic Society Todd Davidson, CEO, Travel Oregon Lenise Lago, Deputy Regional Forester, Pacific Northwest Region, U.S. Forest Service (Oregon and Washington) Maui Meyer, owner, Celilo restaurant in Hood River (a MapGuide site)

WHERE: Heathman Hotel, 1001 SW Broadway, Portland, Oregon

WHY: Geotourism sustains or enhances the geographical character of a place--its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage, and the well-being of its residents. 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. The new MapGuide will contribute to the economic health of communities by promoting sustainable tourism while acknowledging the sensitive balance between growth and conservation.

HOW: The National Geographic Society Center for Sustainable Destinations provided project direction. Lead partners included Travel Oregon, Washington State Tourism, and the Central Cascades Geotourism Stewardship Council, with regional coordination by Sustainable Travel International, Sustainable Northwest, and Rural Development Initiatives. Funding and support were provided by Travel Oregon, Washington State Tourism, U.S. Forest Service-Pacific Northwest Region, Bureau of Land Management Oregon State Office, Oregon Cultural Trust, Clackamas County Tourism Development Council, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Central Oregon Visitors Association, Southern Oregon Visitors Association, Greater Portland Regional Partners, Travel Lane County, and the Columbia River Gorge Visitors Association.