Amanda Lugenbell – Blowing Rock, NC

Hospitality Student Tours

Next Student TourFriday, March 28, 20259am-3pm Tour the hospitality industry in neighboring Blowing Rock Meet hospitality business owners & employers Operations Q&As Ideal for Hospitality & Tourism Management Students FREE TOUR!Transportation and lunch included. Featured 2025 Businesses More info coming soon! Lineup so far:Meadowbrook Inn– see rooms & event spaces and hear how much (or how little) operations differ from retro motor inns also owned by the hotel group.Town Tavern– hear about expansion challenges and dining trends, plus enjoy lunch.Blowing Rock Art & History Museum– short tour of the Museum to learn about the unique approach for the museum in this market/community.Attractions Panel- hear from several local attractions owners about seasonality and how attractions change or adapt services to remain competitive.The Blowing Rock Attraction– tour at the town’s namesake to get some history of the industry, plus photo ops. Transportation provided byAir Haven Limo. Pick-up and drop-off is on AppState campus. Students sign up link (coming soon) (Contact Dr. Carol Kline if you have issues using the registration form: klinecs @ appstate.edu) The Blowing Rock Tourism Development Authority (BRTDA) is excited to continue its partnership program with the Hospitality and Tourism Management Program at Appalachian State University. This program features annual academic tours of tourism-related businesses in Blowing Rock, designed for students studying Hospitality and Tourism. On this tour, students can expect to meet several local business owners and managers at their businesses throughout the afternoon. This fast-paced dive into the Blowing Rock tourism economy offers a unique learning experience where students can see various locations, ask questions, and gain insights on operations. Students will also experience potential work-places first hand, for regular employment or internships. The High Country is a vibrant tourism destination and an ideal community classroom for students in Hospitality Management. Blowing Rock in particular offers a number of models for how small businesses meet ever-changing challenges and opportunities in a resort town. Blowing Rock is full of successful hospitality businesses. The people behind them have so much expertise to share and we’re proud to highlight them as the business leaders they are. Hospitality students are potential employees and interns; they are also the next travelers and future business leaders! Tours locations vary slightly each year, with an emphasis on variety and relevance to current studies. This tour program is part of increased efforts by the BRTDA to improve community communication and rapport. In keeping with its values of promoting economic growth and providing leadership in the local tourism industry, the BRTDA believes this program will help enhance the local tourism industry through improved connections. At a time when the service industry is struggling to maintain an adequate workforce, the BRTDA is also looking for ways to promote hospitality employment opportunities in Blowing Rock. The BRTDA is grateful for the support of local businesses, and for each individual that generously shares their time and expertise for these tours! Tour guide: Amanda Lugenbell, Assistant Director of the BRTDA and 2005 graduate of the Hospitality & Tourism Management program at Appalachian State University

Blowing Rock TDA Embraces Unity Blaze Certification to Promote Inclusivity in Outdoor Activities

The Blowing Rock Tourism Development Authority is proud of its commitment to fostering a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all outdoor enthusiasts. Through participation in the Unity Blaze Certification program, our team has gained valuable insights into the barriers that often prevent Black folks and People of Color from fully engaging in outdoor activities. “We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the beauty and joy of nature,” said Tracy Brown, Executive Director at the Blowing Rock TDA. “By embracing the principles of Unity Blaze Certification, we are better equipped to create a welcoming and inclusive space for all visitors.” The Unity Blaze Certification program provided our staff with a deeper understanding of the historical, cultural, and social factors that have contributed to lower participation rates among Black folks and People of Color in outdoor activities. Armed with this knowledge, we are committed to: Creating a more inclusive environment: We will strive to make our messaging and our business a place where everyone feels valued and respected, regardless of their race, age, gender, or abilities. Educating our staff: Our team will continue to receive ongoing training and education to ensure they are equipped to provide exceptional service to all customers. Partnering with diverse organizations: We will collaborate with organizations that are working to increase diversity and inclusion in the outdoor community. “We are excited to partner with the Blowing Rock TDA in our mission to increase unity in the outdoor community and beyond,” said Earl B. Hunter, Jr., founder and president of Black Folks Camp Too. “Together, we are changing the world one campfire at at time” About the Blowing Rock Tourism Development Authority (BRTDA): The BRTDA the official destination marketing organization for Blowing Rock, tasked with increasing overnight stays and visitor spending in Blowing Rock. The mission of the Blowing Rock Tourism Development Authority is to provide leadership and primary funding for promoting, developing, and supporting year-round travel and tourism to and within the Town of Blowing Rock to increase lodging sales, extend overnight stays, and boost visitor spending. This is accomplished by promoting Blowing Rock to potential visitors through paid advertising, travel media, and our own media channels. You are welcome and invited! Check out our Outdoor Tips and Guides for explorers!

Local Data & Research for Partners

The Blowing Rock Tourism Development Authority (BRTDA) collects and maintains a variety of records. This information may provide useful insights to your business, and we are happy to share this public data with you. Find details on trends, markets, strategies, and more below. Please reach out with any questions or requests for additional information. Local TDA Revenues The Blowing Rock Tourism Development Authority revenues come from occupancy taxes that are remitted to the Town. This 6% tax is charged on overnight stays in Blowing Rock, paid by our visitors. The BRTDA operates on a July-June Fiscal Year. $1,870,092 in occupancy taxes was collected in Blowing Rock in the most recent fiscal year, 2023-2024. Occupancy tax revenues for 2023-2024 represent $31,168,200 in lodging sales alone. Lodging is understood to be, on average, a third of total spending on a trip. Using that, we can estimate that people who stayed overnight in Blowing Rock in the past fiscal year spent about $93.5 million. Total annual spending estimates can be divided to an estimated $256,176 PER DAY in visitor spending. Local taxes on all this spending offset the costs of providing services to residents, resulting in tax savings for locals. Chart: Total Occupancy Tax revenues over time, 2016-2024 Chart: Monthly Occupancy Tax revenues compared over time, 2018-2024 For additional historical numbers or data, please reach out! Please note that the BRTDA does not collect data on occupancy rates, average daily rate, or other details that private businesses are not required to share for public record. Other Local Revenues Tourism is a big industry in Watauga County! Visitor Spending in Watauga County in 2023: $517, 510,000 Because of the state and local taxes paid by visitors, each Watauga County household saved an average of $649.11 in 2023. Annual examination of the tourism industry in North Carolina is conducted by Visit North Carolina, the state’s tourism marketing organization. Follow these links for details about travel to and within North Carolina: Economic Impact of Tourism (available by county)Fast Facts Summaries BRTDA Annual Reports The Blowing Rock TDA fiscal year runs July to June. Blowing Rock TDA Annual Reports include tax collection numbers, activity summaries, noteworthy media moments, and more. 2023-2024 Blowing Rock TDA Annual Report 2022-2023 Blowing Rock TDA Annual Report 2021-2022 Blowing Rock TDA Annual Report (report addendums: 2021-22 BRTDA Financial Audit, 2021-22 BRTDA Media Plan, Blowing Rock, NC Sustainable Tourism Management Plan) 2020-2021 Blowing Rock TDA Annual Report 2019-2020 Blowing Rock TDA Annual Report 2018 Blowing Rock TDA Annual Report 2017 Blowing Rock TDA Annual Report 2016 Blowing Rock TDA Annual Report BRTDA Research The BRTDA regularly participates in and occasionally commissions tourism research. These studies help us learn about our visitor or larger travel trends. Results from some of our most recent projects can be found here: Brand & Image Position Study, SMARInsights (Co-op with Visit NC) – 2023 Sustainable Tourism Management Plan, Roger Brooks International – 2021 Blowing Rock Database Survey Research, Magellan Strategy Group, 2018 Brand Perception Study, Magellan Strategy Group, 2017 Additionally, the BRTDA has contracted with Arrivalist and AirDNA to collect local data. These findings are reflected in Annual Reports. If you’re interested in specific insights on our travel markets and where our visitors spend their time, please contact us for more details. BRTDA Strategy and Planning The BRTDA creates a high-level marketing plan each year, and maintains a long-term strategic plan. See the 2024-2025 Media Plan for the Blowing Rock TDA Here (Audience and Campaign info. For full placement schedule, contact us!) See the Blowing Rock Tourism Development Authority’s Strategic Plan Here BRTDA Structure & Bylaws The TDA is governed by a volunteer board of 5 volunteer members, appointed by Town Council. Regular board meetings are open to the public, and are held quarterly at Town Hall (3:30pm on the first Tuesday of March, June, September, and December). Dates are listed in the Blowing Rock Community Calendar, available at Town Hall and the TDA offices. The Authority board seats are specific, with two seats for lodging representatives, two for tourism-related business representatives, and one for an “at large” community representative. When there is an opening on the board, interested individuals may apply through the Town of Blowing Rock Board Appointment Application. See the TDA Board Members Here See the Blowing Rock TDA Bylaws Here The staff consists of four full-time employees. The TDA also enjoys a strong partnership with the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce, and works closely with the staff there. The Blowing Rock TDA offices are located at 132 Park Avenue, inside the Chamber of Commerce building in downtown Blowing Rock. See Employee Contacts Here Back to Partner Programs Page >> Media Resources Press Releases Accolades & Media Events & Story Ideas Photos & B-Roll Local Tourism Media Resources Press Releases Accolades & Media Events & Story Ideas Photos & B-Roll Local Tourism

Meadowbrook Inn Unveils Stunning Guestroom Transformation

September 2024- Meadowbrook Inn is thrilled to announce the completion of an extensive renovation project that has transformed its guest rooms to offer an unparalleled blend of comfort and style while visiting the North Carolina High Country. Nestled in the heart of Blowing Rock, Meadowbrook Inn has long been a favorite escape for travelers seeking the perfect mountain escape. Now, with the unveiling of 62 fully redesigned guest rooms, the boutique hotel is setting a new standard for upscale mountain accommodations. “We can’t wait for our new and returning guests to enjoy our newly renovated rooms!” says Ali Borchardt, General Manager of Meadowbrook Inn. “New flooring, specially designed furniture, and artwork make our rooms a relaxing and peaceful retreat after a day of exploring.” The renovation showcases a harmonious color palette of soft blue hues, evoking the tranquil skies and misty mountains of the Blue Ridge Mountain region. Each room features:• Newly updated furniture, combining rustic charm with contemporary elegance• Enhanced lighting fixtures that create a warm, inviting ambiance• Stunning new flooring to ensure both comfort and functionality• Thoughtfully curated art pieces Guests will find themselves in a setting of exceptional relaxation, where every detail has been carefully curated to ensure a memorable stay. The redesign seamlessly blends functionality with comfort, offering the perfect retreat after a day full of adventure in Blowing Rock and North Carolina’s Blue RidgeMountains. “Our aim was to design spaces that instill a sense of serenity and draw inspiration from the surrounding mountains,” said Vishal Savani, Managing Director of Savara Hospitality. “We believe these renovations will enhance the overall experience of staying at Meadowbrook Inn, reinforcing its position as the premierchoice for those seeking a truly special mountain getaway.” The newly renovated rooms are available for booking, allowing visitors to experience this fresh take on mountain magnificence. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family vacation, corporate retreat or a solo adventure, Meadowbrook Inn’s revitalized accommodations promise to provide the perfect backdrop for your stay. About Meadowbrook InnMeadowbrook Inn is a 62-room boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Downtown Blowing Rock, a charming town in the breathtaking North Carolina Blue Ridge Mountains. Guests can enjoy the indoor swimming pool, fitness center, complimentary hot breakfast and wireless internet, as well as lovelylandscaped grounds all just one block from the center of downtown. Meadowbrook Inn is managed by Savara Hospitality, along with sister properties Mountainaire Inn & Log Cabins, Azalea Garden Inn and Blowing Rock Inn located in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. To learn more about Meadowbrook Inn, visitmeadowbrook-inn.com.

Magazine Racks at Bent Tree Furniture

Hand made magazine racks by Old Hickory Tannery are new at Bent Tree Furniture. Choose from any of the styles pictured here or create your own custom order! Inquire about available finishes, embossed leathers and hair hides. 7595 Valley Boulevard Blowing Rock, NC 28605 828-622-9821

Christmas in Blowing Rock Wins “Best Holiday Glow” 2024

Christmas in Blowing Rock has been awarded the title of “Best Holiday Glow” for 2024! Twenty shop windows were part of a public rating poll, available via QR codes in the windows and announcements on social media. This poll is always fun for our shops and helps spread holiday cheer with festive displays! Leading up to the Holiday Stroll on December 13th, over 700 people rated shop windows to crown the “Best Holiday Glow” in Blowing Rock. The team at Christmas in Blowing Rock created a sweet and festive window with wrapped gift boxes, a candy cane pajama set and sweater, a peppermint snowman, frosty garlands, and a candy-strewn Christmas tree. Christmas in Blowing Rock got the highest rating, with Barks & Co coming in second, followed closely by neaco. A big thank you to everyone who participated and voted in this year’s poll. What fun window displays will next year bring? Stay tuned, the search for “Best Holiday Glow” will be back in 2025.

Visit Thoughtfully: Tips for a Post-Helene Trip

Blowing Rock businesses are open and eager to serve you! Visitor support is vital to the survival of our local tourism-based economy, so your visit contributes to area recovery. Western North Carolina needs you! Full recovery from Hurricane Helene will take time. If you are visiting soon, we urge you to visit thoughtfully and keep several things in mind. Here are our tips for enjoying a fun and exciting trip to the Blowing Rock area. Plan Ahead Be sure to make all your reservations in advance, including activities and lodging. If your favorite is booked, browse our lodging availability to find a different new hotel or lodge. Check ahead on your favorite activities to be sure they are open and available. Know Routes Before You Go Main routes are clear and access to all local attractions and businesses is restored. Some secondary roads are still under repair, and a few closures remain, so check ahead on routes to more remote activities. Check DriveNC.gov for the latest road conditions. Be Patient & Expect Delays Allow more time for travel and expect heavy traffic in some areas. As area travel patterns are still using mostly main routes, delays can occur. A lot of construction and repair work is still ongoing, too. Please be cautious and patient as you move throughout the area. Bring that same patience and sensitivity to interactions with staff at local businesses. Many are still personally dealing with difficulties from the storm, and potentially working while understaffed as well. Obey Closures and Restrictions Obey closure signs on roads and trails. Not only can it be incredibly dangerous to venture past closures, unwelcome exploration can cause delays to much-needed repairs. Travel Respectfully Visitors are asked to avoid residential spaces outside business areas while recovery efforts continue. Be sensitive to and respect the needs of our neighbors who are still repairing and rebuilding. Please don’t wander to look for damage as entertainment. Support Local Businesses Shop and dine locally as much as you can- it makes significant impacts on the families who own our small businesses. Our shops are full of one-of-a-kind holiday gifts and it’s a great time to shop. Enjoy our restaurants and please be generous with your tips for our local workers. Many of our Blowing Rock attractions are family-owned as well, so plan to stop in at attractions like The Blowing Rock, Mystery Hill, and Doc’s Rocks and make a reservation for activities like Appalachian Ski Mountain, Sky Valley Zip Tours, High Gravity Adventures, and Tee 2 Green Indoor Golf. Other Ways to Support If you are shortening your usual visit or If you are still waiting to visit in person, consider purchasing gift cards or shopping online from our local businesses as a meaningful way to show your support at this time. If you are looking for additional ways to help, we hope you will contribute to one of the many organizations working to help those hit hardest by Hurricane Helene. Our community’s resilience is unmatched. The spirit of the NC High Country is strong, and we stand together in support of those affected by this storm. We are deeply grateful to all those helping western NC- all the work, the contributions, and the kindness. We are so appreciative to everyone who has reached out to support Blowing Rock and the High Country!

Support Local Businesses Post-Helene

Though the storm is over, recovery is ongoing. As most of our visitors know, the fall leaf season is vital to businesses in the High Country, but that kind of robust economic activity wasn’t possible this October. Additionally, lots of our local businesses showed up for our community in big ways. Several directed a large portion of their resources to relief efforts like providing free meals, resident and responder support, and supply collection work. Many are still contributing and helping their employees and neighbors. Even if you have postponed a visit, there are still ways you can support your favorite High Country businesses during this difficult time! Jump to link list for gift cards, online shopping, and special initiatives >> Here are some ideas: Restaurants Purchase a gift card from your favorite High Country restaurant! This cash flow will help our local restaurants stay on their feet. Several local restaurants are helping to feed the community, and extending support to their staff still without basic utilities. Some offer gift card sales online, and you can also call to inquire about purchasing a gift card over the phone. You may also consider purchasing gift cards to be used for free meals for displaced residents or meal deliveries- call individual businesses to inquire about that possibility. See all Blowing Rock restaurants & their contact info here >> Shops & Retail Buy online from those great shops you’d usually visit on a fall getaway! Blowing Rock shops are operating, and those in Boone are as well. These business owners need our dollars to stay open. If they don’t have an online shop, check to see if they are posting merchandise on social media instead. Complete your holiday shopping and support small businesses at the same time! See all Blowing Rock shops & their contact info here >> Lodging Sponsor a room for a local resident or a relief worker! If you can support our local hotels in this way, it will help make a huge difference. Many local hotels hosted utility workers and recovery crews, while also providing places for displaced residents to stay or even simply take a shower. They are true community partners! Reach out to your favorite lodging operator to see how you can “reserve” a room for this use to help cover these costs. See all Blowing Rock lodging & their contact info here >> Some local attractions offer online gift cards! The annual economic boost in the fall helps keep the lights on during the quieter winter and spring months. Please do what you can to help support local businesses who had to miss out on such an important economic boost. It’s Easy to Support Local! For your convenience, here is a list of Blowing Rock businesses and local attractions that offer gift cards or online stores. Viewing on mobile? Turn your device or scroll over to see all four columns. Business Name Gift Card Shop Online Initiatives Almost Rodeo Dr. Call 828-295-3422 Alpine Village Inn Click here >> Provided lodging to linemen & workers. Call 828-295-7206 for rates. Appalachian Outfitters Shop now >> Aqua B Boutique Shop now >> Arcadian Massage Click here >> Donate a massage to a volunteer. Art Walk Shop now >> Azalea Garden Inn Click here >> Provided lodging to linemen & first responders – call 828-295-3272 for rates. Bald Guy Brew Click here >> Shop now >> Best Cellar Click here >> Bistro Roca Click here >> First Responders Meals Blowing Rock Ale House Click here >> Shop now >> Blowing Rock Furniture Gallery Shop now >> Blowing Rock Inn Click here >> Housed linemen Blue Deer Click here >> Shop now >> Bolick & Traditions Pottery Click here >> Shop now >> Blowing Rock Art & History Museum Shop now >> Cafe Violette Click here >> Provided free meals for residents Camp Coffee Roasters Shop now >> Buy a can of gas for generators >> Chetola Resort Click here >> Housed linemen & workers Christmas in Blowing Rock Click here >> Shop now >> Cliff Dwellers Inn Housed linemen & workers Cupcrazed Cafe Click here >> Doc’s Rocks Gem Mine Shop now >> Famous Toastery Click here >> FA Supp Shop Shop now >> Final Touches Shop now >> Finley House Couture Call 828-295-6373 Shop now >> Firelight Book & Candle Shop now >> Donate emergency candles >> Funky Tulip Shop now >> Gamekeeper Restaurant Click here >> Gilded Lily by Patra Click here >> Shop now >> Grandfather Mountain Sponsor Animals>> Avery County Helene Relief >> Green Park Inn Special rates provided to linemen & workers Gregory Alan’s Click here >> Shop now >> Grounded Works Shop now >> Hanna’s of Blowing Rock Shop now >> Hellbender Bed & Beverage Click here >> First Responders Meals. Housed displaced residents. call 828-295-3487 to sponsor a stay. Hemlock Inn Click here >> Volunteers stay at 15% off 828-295-7987 High Country Candles Shop now >> High Country Woodworks Call 828-372-7021 High Gravity Adventures Click here >> Holiday Inn Express Housed linemen and volunteers Homestead Inn Call 828-295-9559 Housing displaced residents. call 828-295-9559 to sponsor a stay. Inn at Ragged Gardens Click here >> Housing displaced residents. call 828-295-9703 to sponsor a stay. Jack Hamrick Art Shop now >> Jerky Outpost Shop now >> J. McLaughlin Click here >> Shop now >> Martin House Gallery Shop now >> McCoy Minerals Click here >> Shop now >> Meadowbrook Inn Click here >> Housed linemen & first responders. Mellow Mushroom Click here >> Monkee’s of Blowing Rock Shop now

Helene Recovery Information

The NC High Country was devastated by Hurricane Helene on September 27. We are so grateful for the outpouring of concern for our town and our community. Blowing Rock was incredibly fortunate through the storm; many of our neighbors are still in dire situations. Learn more about local recovery and how you can help those in need. For comprehensive NC resources, see NC Department of Public Safety’s information about Hurricane Helene here. Hurricane Helene Impacts: Updated Wednesday, December 18, 2024 Town of Blowing Rock infrastructure is undamaged and operational. All Blowing Rock businesses are open, and all utilities are restored. Roads in our area are safe and open for travel. Local businesses are open and eager to serve and visitor support is vital to their survival. Western North Carolina needs you! Full recovery from Hurricane Helene will take time. ClosuresBlowing Rock attractions are operating on normal schedules. Nearby NC State Parks have some trail and campsite closures- check ahead with individual parks before visiting. Getting AroundTravel on main routes and major secondary routes is open. Check ahead confirm the status of routes for more remote activities. Twenty miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway is open near Blowing Rock (weather permitting), but NPS warns that visitors should be aware that trail assessments have not been completed and caution should be exercised when hiking. Areas to AvoidAll High Country towns are welcoming visitors! Visitors are only asked to avoid residential areas outside business areas and routes while recovery efforts continue. The spirit of the NC High Country is strong, and we stand together in support of those affected by this storm. We are deeply grateful to all those helping western NC- Thank you. If you are visiting soon, we urge you to visit thoughtfully and keep a few things in mind. For more on how to visit thoughtfully, see our tips here! Local Updates Follow these accounts and local news sources for updates about Hurricane Helene impacts on our immediate area: Watauga County Emergency Services on Facebook High Country Press– local news Watauga Democrat – local news Boone Area Chamber of Commerce on Facebook Avery County on Facebook Ashe County on Facebook NC Department of Transportation- road closures & updates Where to Donate Funds These are some of the organizations are coordinating drives for monetary donations that will stay in the community and NC for Hurricane Helene relief. Follow these links to donate or to learn more. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list! Feeding Avery Families Casting Bread Blowing Rock Cares Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation Build For Good Foundation (Venmo: @Build4Good) Ashe Food Pantry Hospitality House NWNC Wine to Water High Country United Way Appalachian State Disaster Relief Fund Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation Samaritan’s Purse FARM Cafe NC Red Cross NC Hospitality Workers Relief Fund Southern Smoke Foundation (Food & Beverage worker relief) NC Disaster Relief Fund Official Donation Drop-off Sites Please coordinate donations with local non-profits and volunteers, potentially with organizations listed above. Volunteer Opportunities These organizations are coordinating local volunteer efforts. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list!We will add more as we learn of more open opportunities. There will be much need even after the immediate emergency passes. Please coordinate with organizations BEFORE traveling and do not self-deploy without connecting with an organization that is providing services. Red Cross NC Samaritan’s Purse- Boone Response Casting Bread in Blowing Rock Those with chainsaws and other equipment can volunteer at Perkinsville Baptist Church: 274 Jefferson Rd, Boone, NC 28607. CALL AHEAD (828) 264-8605 Small teams with chainsaws and other equipment are coordinated from Speckled Trout Outfitters each morning 7:30am-8:30am: 916 Main St, Blowing Rock, NC 28605. CALL AHEAD (828) 773-8852 Food and supply service at Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation Office: 4210 Mitchell Ave # 2, Linville, NC 28646. CALL AHEAD(828) 733-1333 Those wishing to volunteer can also register at nc.gov/volunteer to be connected with a NC Volunteer Organization currently active in Helene response. Recovery Assistance Red Cross Shelters Small Business Resources How to apply for FEMA assistance for homeowners How to apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance WNC Strong: Helene Business Recovery Fund NC Hospitality Workers Relief Fund Southern Smoke Foundation (Food & Beverage worker relief) Restaurant Disaster Relief Fund Get more information on assistance and resources for residents on the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce website >>

Outdoor NC Resources

Blowing Rock is a proud member of the Outdoor NC Partner Alliance. Through this program, the TDA staff is learning more about how to communicate good stewardship ideals to our visitors and businesses. It’s vital that we all step up and do our part to protect and preserve the places we love, from Blowing Rock parks to lands on the Blue Ridge Parkway. As a Blowing Rock business, you have access to some of the great resources made available through our partnership with Visit NC and Outdoor NC. Below, find printable posters, some excellent resources for sustainability in business, and even a Leave No Trace training program (a great refresher even if you’re familiar)! Sustainable Business Resources Outdoor NC has compiled some excellent resources for us all: A Global Trends Report and a comprehensive Sustainable Business Resource guide. Share this information with your employees, managers, and any stakeholders in your business. Click on the images below to see the full files- both downloadable and printable PDFs. Global Trends Report Sustainable Tourism Business Guide, includes links Printable Posters & Handouts Some printable pieces that help remind us all to protect and preserve the places we love! A beautiful poster, plus a flyer and a tri-fold handout for the 7 principles of Leave No Trace. Click each image below for a downloadable and printable PDF file. 8.5×11 Leave No Trace Flyer Tri-fold Leave No Trace Pamphlet (prints front-and-back on 8.5×11) Resources to Share We have a special section of this website dedicated to responsible and accessible recreation. Visitors will find details on Leave No Trace Principles, plus some simple guides for those new to exploring our area. There’s also some information about the accessibility of popular locations and attractions to help folks decide how to plan for their trip. This set of posts and guides are great for learning more about our local places, and for sharing with your audiences and employees. See our Outdoors For All page here > Online Training Program Everyone in the North Carolina hospitality or retail industry plays a crucial role to help promote Leave No Trace’s educational message with visitors and customers who are likely unaware of the negative impacts that can result from outdoor recreation. Let’s help protect our outdoor resources with stewardship education, to help ensure that North Carolina’s thriving tourism and recreation economy continue to grow for years to come. Check out this easy-to-follow Leave No Trace training module here!

Author: Amanda Lugenbell