Potential Economic Benefits of Apple Tree Alleywalk

The Apple Tree Alleywalk project will be on the agenda at the upcoming Borough Council meeting on May 15th at 7pm.  Show your support for this innovative trail/greenway project that would be both a great asset to residents and an attraction for visitors.  More info on the potential economic benefits of Apple Tree Alley  below or learn more about the economic impacts of Trails in Damascus, Virginia.

Duncannon Highlighted on Progress Pennsylvania

Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/veender/2209733518/

Over the weekend Duncannon made an appearance on the Progress Pennsylvania blog, tales of Pennsylvania revitalization and economic development told by blogger Roy Keeler based in Pottstown, PA.

Duncannon PA Designated an Appalachian Trail Community

"This tiny town of 1,522 people, 15 miles north of Harrisburg, is making the most of having the Appalachian Trail running down its main street.  Taking advantage of natural surrounding is a tool for economic development.  Nature-based Tourism also known as Ecotourism is a great way for a town like Duncannon to revitalize itself." - Progress Pennsylvania

Also check out the Case Studies page to read about post-industrial town turned outdoor recreation destination - Jim Thorpe, PA.  Also highlighted is Damascus, VA - which dubs itself the "friendliest town on the trail."  Do I smell a challenge?

The Value of Outdoor Festivals to PA Communities

Paddlers on the Susquehanna River, Source: PennLive.com

The A.T. Community designation celebration and town-wide outdoors festival themed "Saving Our Community from Nature Deficit Disorder" hopes to resonate beyond June 2012.  The concept of an Outdoor Festival as a means to promote sustainable economic development by linking economy, society and nature is not a new one in Pennsylvania.  Sustainable Pittsburgh's "Guide for Organizing an Outdoor Festival" explains it best:

• Outdoor recreation is a magnet for people of all ages and integral to the changed image of a region.
• Outdoor recreation contributes to equity by serving all people and narrowing the disparities gap.
• Participating in outdoor recreation contributes to healthy lifestyles for young and old.
• Outdoor enjoyment leads to awareness, appreciation, and likely action by all to be better stewards of the environment at home, at work, and at play.
• In common with Pennsylvania's two biggest industries - agriculture and tourism - recreation amenities are resource-based strategies for significant economic development.
• Recreation resources such as trails, watershed, connected parks, rivers and streams know no political boundaries.

Promotion of amenities within regions and communities can lead to legitimate economic development in the form of jobs, tourism, and vitality.