News

Salmon run offers unique fish-watching opportunities for nature enthusiasts

Published on August 16, 2018
Birds and mammals are usually the focus for wildlife watchers, but the fall salmon run provides spectacular fish-watching opportunities, too. Visit weirs and dams in west Michigan this fall or watch a new video to enjoy the spectacle.
Are wedding barns here to stay?

Published on August 14, 2018
Older generations are scratching their heads wondering why anyone would get married in a barn and millennials are booking barns years in advance for their special day. Are barn weddings merely a phase or are they here to stay?
Communities across Michigan will receive perspectives of first-time visitors to improve tourism and strengthen quality of life

Published on August 2, 2018
Michigan State University Extension tourism educators begin working with another round of communities committed to taking action and making improvements based on the strengths and weaknesses through the eyes of first-time visitors.
Great Lakes Fisheries Heritage Trails Conference offers an island experience

Published on July 17, 2018
Travel to Beaver Island to explore online opportunities for expanding the heritage trail network across Michigan and the Great Lakes region.
Four Michigan Thumb communities organize and take action after receiving results from tourists’ first-impressions

Published on June 22, 2018
Michigan State University Extension tourism educator conducts follow-up evaluations to determine what actions and impacts come from First Impressions Tourism (FIT) assessments.
Five ways the arts impact rural economies

Published on June 4, 2018
Creating an innovative business climate can have a large impact on an economy.
What is the “First Impression” from outside visitors of your community?

Published on May 31, 2018
I-69 Thumb region partners with MSU Extension a second time for another round of tourism assessments of communities conducted through the eyes of first-time visitors.
Dairy farm tours and open houses are always a good idea

Published on May 15, 2018
In a society where the majority of the population is disconnected from agriculture, opening the doors of your farm to the public can have a big impact on their lives, and ultimately on the dairy industry.
Trails movement keeps growing in Michigan

Published on May 1, 2018
Communities drawing more visitors with specialty nature-based attractions.
Comparing Michigan’s outdoor recreation economy to Illinois and Wisconsin

Published on April 25, 2018
Outdoor Industry Association provides state statistics on the Outdoor Recreation Economy across the United States of America.