Explore Whitefish partners with organizations to promote responsible recreation
Runners make their way along the Whitefish Trail. (Heidi Desch/Whitefish Pilot file)
The Whitefish Convention and Visitors Bureau is partnering with two organizations to educate visitors about responsible recreation and stewardship of public lands, and asking them to give back to those lands.
The partnership is part of the sustainable tourism campaign Be a Friend of The Fish.
WCVB or Explore Whitefish is working with Recreate Responsibly and Pledge for the Wild.
The Recreate Responsibly Coalition launched last year and includes agencies, nonprofits and businesses working together to encourage outdoor enthusiasts to plan ahead, follow the rules, and adventure safely. Partners from across the state have signed onto the coalition alongside Explore Whitefish, including Visit Montana, Glacier Country Tourism Commission, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks and Discover Kalispell.
“We and our statewide partners are integrating messaging from the Recreate Responsibly campaign into the way we communicate with visitors and locals alike,” said Dylan Boyle, Executive Director of Explore Whitefish. “Promoting concepts like Know Before You Go, Leave No Trace, and Plan Ahead, will be key to having a successful summer.”
Pledge for The Wild is a group of mountain towns supporting responsible tourism while building awareness about giving back to wild places.
Explore Whitefish’s partnership with Pledge for the Wild will allow Whitefish travelers to make a donation to Whitefish Legacy Partners and the Whitefish Trail system.
“Many of our visitors enjoy the Whitefish Trail,” Boyle said. “We’re excited to offer an opportunity for visitors to contribute to this widely used recreational treasure.”
Many visitors come to Whitefish because of the easy access to local recreation areas, the WCVB notes, and that’s only increased during the pandemic.
Alan Myers-Davis, Director of Development at Whitefish Legacy Partners, said donations through Pledge for the Wild will help to maintain the high quality experience for which the Whitefish Trail is known.
“Because of the increased trail use we experienced last year, ongoing maintenance is critical to protecting our local lands and keeping our local trails open,” he said.
Visitors and locals who wish to make a donation to Whitefish Legacy Partners can text WILD4WHITEFISH to 44321, or visit https://secure.givelively.org/donate/whitefish-legacy-partners-inc. All proceeds go directly to the Whitefish Trail.