Jesse Medina
The Paw Print
National Geographic maps will be joining with organizations in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Arizona in highlighting the four corners region.
The Project intends to draw special attention to the natural and cultural attractions of the area. As an added bonus the project is expected to also contribute to the economic growth of the areas in question.
Geotourism is ultimately the goal of the project. Geotourism is defined as tourism that sustains, or even enhances, the geographical character of a place. This would include the localities’ culture, environment, heritage, and well-being of its residences. Essentially, this project will benefit the communities of the four corners region.
The project was launched on September 17. The San Luis Valley is part of the area that the map will highlight. What is important is the participation of local residents to highlight what makes their particular region unique and special.
Who would know what makes an area special better than the locals. What is being attempted is a set of nominations for the sites that best represent the area according to the residents of said area. Residents will have the say as far as determining the areas locals that best represent the region.
“Participation by local residents is critical to our project’s success. Our goal is to get nominations from across the region that identify the things people love best, those ‘must see’ places that reflect the cultural continuum from prehistoric sites to modern day communities, natural features, small towns, and enduring landscapes,” said Four Corners Geotourism Project Coordinator Susan Thomas.
Nominations for the regions that wish to be included in the Four Corners Geotourism Project can be submitted through December 17, 2010 at www.FourCornersGeotourism.com which is the projects official website. The site nomination process began on September 17 following the dedication of the Four Corners Monument Plaza which is located in New Mexico and underwent a renovation during the summer.
It was at this event that Jim Dion of National Geographic Maps officially announced the plans for the Four Corners Region Geotourism project.
In addition to nominations being accepted at the website, are public forums being held at their respective communities throughout the Four Corners region to encourage community involvement as well as giving further details to those unaware of the project and giving instructions for those wishing to make the online nominations.
The meetings for the projects took place in Alamosa on November 10 and November 16.
Aside from the community meetings to decided regional highlights is a regional oversight committee. The Four Corners Stewardship Council represents an assortment of geotourism perspectives including, but not limited to, historic preservation, traditional and local arts, and tourism promotion and local businesses.
“National Geographic Maps Division is pleased to have the opportunity to spotlight this region and, in doing so, support and sustain it as one of the treasured natural places on the globe,” said Jim Dion, business development associate for National Geographic Maps.
For more information on the project including local nominations and community outreach meetings contact Claire Cote at 575-586-2362.
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