Ecotourism in Appalachia

by Fritsch, Albert J.; Johannsen, Kristin

• ISBN13: 9780813122885
• ISBN10: 0813122880
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2004-02-20
• Publisher: Univ Pr of Kentucky

Summary

Winner of the The Caudill Prize, recognizing outstanding contributions to reporting Appalachian life and values. Tourism is the world's largest industry, and ecotourism is rapidly emerging as its fastest growing segment. As interest in nature travel increases, so does concern for conservation of the environment and the well-being of local peoples and cultures. Appalachia seems an ideal destination for ecotourists, with its rugged mountains, uniquely diverse forests, wild rivers, and lively arts culture. And ecotourism promises much for the region: protecting the environment while bringing income to disadvantaged communities. But can these promises be kept? Ecotourism in Appalachia examines both the potential and the threats that tourism holds for Central Appalachia. The authors draw lessons from destinations that have suffered from the "tourist trap syndrome," including Nepal and Hawaii. They conclude that only carefully regulated and locally controlled tourism can play a positive role in Appalachia's economic development.

Author Biography

Albert J. Fritsch is the founder of Appalachia-Science in the Public Interest (ASPI). He has authored several environmental books and reports, He has been involved in environmental activism for over thirty years and has organized protests to regulate the use of off-road vehicles on public and private lands Kristin Johannsen is a freelance writer specializing in environmental issues and travel. She has traveled in over sixty countries. Her articles have appeared in dozens of publications

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments	vii
Introduction	1	(7)
The World's Biggest Industry: The Rising Star of Tourism	8	(21)
Mountain Mist: Appalachian Tourism Today	29	(29)
On the Wrong Track: ORV Tourism in Kentucky	58	(24)
Going Green: Ecotourism as an Emerging Experience	82	(23)
Lessons for Appalachia 1: Ecotourism in Developing Countries	105	(29)
Lessons for Appalachia 2: Nature Tourism in the U.S.	134	(28)
The Bottom Line: Ecotourism's Balance Sheet	162	(24)
2020 Visions: Two Alternative Futures for Appalachian Tourism	186	(26)
Our Own Backyard: An Ecotour Through Appalachia	212	(21)
Beyond Ecotourism: Transforming Travel	233	(30)
Appendix 1: Co-op America's Travel Guidelines	263	(2)
Appendix 2: 99 Recreational Activities Ranked by Impact	265	(6)
Notes	271	(8)
Index	279