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The Economics of Rivers(with an emphasis on the Verde)
Doug Von Gausig, Verde River Institute, May 16, 2014
Where is the “Middle Verde?”
VREDS, 2011:• Economic
Connection to the Verde = close to zero
• No Access
• No Interest
2011:• Real Estate on the River – 20-30% increase• Recreation limited to fishing, some birding, occasional stray kayaker• Some agriculture in Camp Verde area
Grand Valley, ColoradoPalisade, Grand Junction, Fruita
“String of Pearls”
Verde Valley String of Pearls
• Town of Clarkdale• USFS
• AZ State Parks• City of Cottonwood • Yavapai County
• Town of Camp Verde• Coordinated and Synergistic
Parks• Economic Development-oriented
Verde FrontString of Pearls Key Concept
Each individual jurisdiction/land management agency retains management authority for their respective “pearls”; but
all work collaboratively to ensure comprehensive Verde River/Greenway planning, implementation and shared
regional benefits.
Key Components
This is a regional effort, connecting local areas in a regional, synergistic system.
This is a collaborative effort, focusing on shared responsibility, shared resources and involvement of a wide variety of stakeholders.
A healthy and vibrant river is
the foundation for sustainable
recreation, eco-tourism and
local economic development.
Key Components
The String of Pearls will gain recognition beyond the region as a unique destination, and be seen as a model for other areas.
The String of Pearls effort hopes to balance
a variety of uses with preservation/restoratio
n efforts.
National Geographic Geo-tourism
Engage over 500 attractions and businesses within the Valley
Reach over 3 million people through media and marketing
Increase visitor spending by 8-10% p.a.
Increase the Economic Impact of Tourism by
$50-$60 ml p.a.
Increase local government
revenues by $1.4 million p.a.
Initial VV Geotourism Program Goals
The Verde ValleyGeotourism Program
Geotourism – “tourism that sustains or enhances the geographical character of a place – its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage, and the well-being of its residents.”
Geotourism PrinciplesIntegrity of Place: Enhance geographical character by developing and improving it in ways distinctive to the locale, reflective of its natural and cultural heritage.
Targeted Marketing: Encourage growth in tourism market segments most likely to appreciate, respect, and disseminate information about the distinctive assets of the destination.
Community Involvement: Help civic organizations, government and businesses develop approaches to tourism that build on the area’s nature, history and culture, cuisine, art, etc.
Geotourism PrinciplesCelebrate, protect and enhance destination assets: Encourage residents and businesses to sustain natural habitats, heritage sites, aesthetic appeal, and local culture.
Land use: Anticipate development pressures and define strategies to mitigate them.
Planning: Recognize and respect immediate economic needs without sacrificing the long-term character and potential of the destination.
Measure results: Establish an evaluation process and publicize results.
Verde River @ Clarkdale
TapcoRAP, TuziRAP
Goals: Tie the Health of the Verde River to the Health of the Economy!
Bring Sustainable Recreation Opportunities to the Local Economy Foster a Culture of Sustainability and Healthy Environment
• Sustainable Recreation the brings $ to the area• “Eco-tourism”
• Sustainable Agriculture• Educational Opportunities
• Quality of Life Enhancements
The Lessons:Collaborative, cross-jurisdictional cooperation is
Paramount!Everyone must be on the same page, seeking the
same goalsBaseline and follow-up Metrics are ImportantAll the Players Need to be There
Cities and TownsCountyAgenciesNGOsBusinessesSchools