The Town of Taos has provided updates regarding its collaborative project with the Center for Responsible Travel (CREST) and the George Washington University International Institute of Tourism Studies (GW) to develop a Destination Stewardship Plan (DSP). The project aims to ensure the sustainable development of tourism in the Taos region, as announced in a press release by the Town of Taos.
As part of the project, the Town of Taos organized various events to gather input from residents and stakeholders. The goal was to incorporate a diverse range of perspectives on tourism in the Taos region. The Town of Taos stated, "These events provided a platform for residents to express their thoughts, concerns, and ideas regarding tourism in the Taos region, ensuring a diverse range of perspectives were considered."
During the initial phases of the project, CREST and GW conducted extensive research to understand the current state of tourism in Taos. They supplemented this knowledge with in-person workshops, interviews, focus groups, and public meetings. A Resident Tourism Sentiment Survey received 3,348 responses, and input from local businesses will also be taken into account. CREST and GW will return to Taos for more workshops and focus groups, according to the press release.
Taos Mayor Pascual Maestas expressed pride in the collaborative effort of the community to develop the Destination Stewardship Plan. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that the future growth of tourism aligns with the values, culture, and character of Taos. Mayor Maestas encouraged everyone to attend the upcoming public meeting on November 2, where their voices will continue to shape the path ahead.
Wesley Espinosa, the Executive Director of CREST, stated that they are eager to further engage with the Taos community and work together to create a shared vision for the future of tourism. The upcoming town hall meeting will serve as a platform to discuss priority issues identified during stakeholder consultations, find practical solutions, and gather invaluable resident feedback.
The collaboration between the Town of Taos, CREST, and GW demonstrates a commitment to responsible tourism and the sustainable development of the Taos region. By involving residents and stakeholders in the decision-making process, the Destination Stewardship Plan aims to create a tourism industry that respects the local community and preserves the unique character of Taos.