The Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing (VDTM) has launched a statewide strategic planning process to develop the first-ever Destination Management Strategic Plan for Vermont.
As one of the first steps in this process, VDTM will be working with the Coraggio Group to conduct listening sessions across the state during the week of February 10-14. These listening sessions are designed to explore various aspects of the visitor economy in Vermont, including current and future challenges, opportunities, and priorities to support visitation around the state.
Your unique perspective is crucial in ensuring that the strategic plan is comprehensive, inclusive, and truly reflective of our community's needs and aspirations. This is an opportunity to voice your thoughts and contribute to shaping the future of tourism in Vermont.
When Do the Listening Sessions Occur?
Two listening sessions occur each day. Choose the best one for you. Dates and locations are:
February 10 - Stowe and Rutland
February 11 - St. Albans and Woodstock
February 12 - Waitsfield and Manchester
February 13 - Burlington and Middlebury
February 14 - St. Johnsbury and Brattleboro
To learn details and sign up for a session, please use this RSVP form.
What is a Destination Management Plan?
A Destination Management Plan helps manage the flow of visitors and maximizes the positive effects of tourism on a destination while minimizing the negative impacts. Creating a plan engages stakeholders to help align planning and development for tourism with the needs of residents, visitors, industry, and government. Having a plan makes it possible to identify infrastructure development needs and priorities as well as actions that will have the most positive effects on the community.
A good Destination Management Plan helps a tourism destination like Vermont balance environmental, community, and economic values.