Tourism

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MSU Extension’s tourism team works statewide addressing community needs and interests in leveraging assets and resources for tourism development. A variety of programs exist to assist a community or region in becoming a destination or launch initiatives to strengthen existing tourism offerings. Programs are specifically designed to involve local leaders and stakeholders in a collaborative process for developing regional synergies and inclusiveness, exploring niche markets and/or capitalizing on the results of community assessments by first-time visitors. Ultimately, programs can form the basis for future development, spawn local leadership, and strengthen community vitality.

Increase awareness of assets and opportunities.
Increase knowledge of best practices, trends and changes.
Develop new leadership roles, opportunities and action items.
Foster new collaborations and plans among stakeholders to advance community driven tourism.

News

MSU Extension partners with Marine City and Marine City Chamber of Commerce a second time to capture visitor impressions

Published on February 19, 2026
Learn more about this one-year pilot program that seeks to understand strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities via QR codes around the Marine City community.
Land Division Act amendment allowing the creation of more parcels means all local governments should review development ordinances

Published on February 18, 2026
With the authority for local governments to allow and approve more divisions of land comes the responsibility to follow the master plan and make environmentally and financially sound infrastructure decisions.
With the help from first-time visitors, five Michigan communities engaged to better understand their assets and opportunities in 2025

Published on February 6, 2026
Demand for MSU Extension’s First Impressions Tourism assessment program demonstrates a growing desire and need for Michigan communities to better themselves by capturing first-time visitor perspectives.
The Power of the Pen and Co-Design

Published on December 15, 2025
NCI had the opportunity over the last year to be involved in the Missouri Prison Transformation Project, which seeks to improve the quality of life and wellbeing of those living in, working in, and recently released from prison.
Powering the Blue Economy: How aquaculture can strengthen Michigan communities and economies

Published on December 10, 2025
Growth in Michigan aquaculture could offer increased local food security, job opportunities, and more.