NORTHEAST SASKATCHEWAN COMMUNITIES BENEFIT FROM NATURE-BASED TOURISM

Communities in northeast Saskatchewan have recognized nature-based tourism as a viable option for enhancing the local economy.

The Etomami Valley Regional Economic Development Authority (REDA) has led the way in a regional bird trail initiative by developing the Etomami Valley REDA birding trail. The trail exists in Preeceville and Greenwater Provincial Park.

"The Etomami Valley REDA's birding trail is an excellent example of communities working together to create a regional resource that will attract tourists to the area," Deputy Premier and Regional Economic and Co-operative Development Minister Clay Serby said. "This project will enhance the local economy through employment opportunities for local residents and direct and indirect expenditures made within these rural communities."

Bird watching is a multi-million dollar industry and one of the fastest growing recreational activities in North America.

"Birding is an under-marketed opportunity in Saskatchewan that Etomami Valley REDA is hoping to capitalize on," REDA board member and East Central Tourism chairperson Garth Harris said. "The trails provide a catalyst to draw tourists to the area from all over North America."

The Etomami Valley REDA's birding trail in northeast Saskatchewan is one of the first regional birding trails in the province. The regional birding trail links smaller micro-trails within the area, tying them together into a circuit that can be followed by visitors with no prior knowledge of the region. This marketing strategy promotes low impact travel and community development within the region.

The Etomami Valley REDA plans to develop more birding trails in the Porcupine Plain and Hudson Bay areas.

Saskatchewan is home to a large number of bird species. Approximately 300 species, including three threatened and two endangered, can be seen in the north east region birding area.

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For More Information, Contact:

Donna Rehirchuk Regional Economic and Co-operative Development Regina Phone: (306) 787-2359