Tourism Development
According to the State of Alaska Visitor Statistics Program, Southwest Alaska is one of the least visited regions in the state. However, the region's spectacular scenery; magnificent parks and refuges; abundant wildlife, marine life and birds; diverse Alaska Native cultures; unique Russian colonial heritage and other historical sites; coastal and river communities; and limitless opportunities for outdoor recreation offer untapped potential for sustainable tourism development. SWAMC Tourism Development Plan:
- Objective: Increase jobs, taxes, capital investments, new business start-ups, and local wealth retention in the tourism sector.
- Strategy 1: Support the development and maintenance of a regional tourism marketing program.
- Strategy 2: Identify and develop niche tourism markets that increase opportunities for residents of Southwest Alaska.
- Strategy 3: Influence federal, state, and local policies and management plans regarding public lands, fish and wildlife resources, infrastructure, and marketing.
Current Projects:
- Alaska's Southwest: SWAMC maintains an ongoing regional tourism marketing effort under the brand name "Alaska's Southwest," which includes: the Alaska's Southwest website; advertising and listings in travel planners, guides and publications; publication and distribution of Alaska's Southwest lure brochure; and ongoing travel media contacts and information.
- Alaska Marine Highway National Scenic Byway: SWAMC serves as the coordinator for the Kodiak and Aleutians segment of the byway.
- Tourism Committee: Volunteers from CVB's, tourism businesses, and state and federal agencies provide direction and advice toward the implementation of SWAMC's tourism development objectives.