Governor Gary R. Herbert joined U.S. Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell at the signing of a memorandum of understanding between members of the Western States Tourism Policy Council and U.S. Federal Agencies recognizing the economic importance of tourism on federal lands and waters.
“Tourism in Utah is an integral part of our state’s thriving economy,” said Gov. Herbert noting travelers spent $7.4 billion last year, generating $960 million in state and local taxes. “Today’s signing underscores my commitment to continue growing Utah’s tourism economy. Support and collaboration from our federal partners is essential to our success.”
Today’s memorandum establishes a framework of cooperation between federal agencies and the Western States Tourism Policy Council to achieve the common goal of advancing travel and tourism opportunities on federal lands to produce long-term economic, business development, educational and recreational benefits, especially in rural areas.
“Utah’s Mighty 5 national parks and federally managed lands are a bucket list destination for tourists worldwide,” said Vicki Varela, managing director, Utah Office of Tourism, Film and Global Branding, a signatory of today’s memorandum.
In 2013, Utah’s national parks, monuments, recreation areas and historic site welcomed 11,120,963 visits. The most popular of these lands is Zion National Park, which drew 2,807,387 visits last year.
The MOU outlines several key areas for cooperation:
- Enhance visitor experience and access to federal lands, waters and shores
- Expand small business development opportunities in tourism
- Support the long-term viability of western tourism communities
- Protect and interpret the natural, environmental, cultural and historical resources foundational to tourism
- Promote principles of sustainable tourism
- Advance public/private marketing partnerships
Signatories of today’s memorandum include Tom Vilsack, U.S. secretary of agriculture; Penny Pritzker, U.S. secretary of commerce; Anthony Foxx, U.S. secretary of transportation; Jo-Ellen Darcy, U.S. assistant secretary of Army (Civil Works); Milford Wayne Donaldson, chairman, Advisory Council on Historic Preservation and tourism directors from twelve western states.
