tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52165823298671773852024-02-19T04:58:52.384-08:00The Ontario Ecotourism SocietyMinimum Impact, Maximum ExperienceThe Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-6378321701747877822011-03-22T13:21:00.000-07:002011-04-01T09:43:01.018-07:00Transport Canada makes positive change ! ~ canoes and kayaks (almost) off the hidden tax hit list<div>(this post written by Kara Mitchell )</div><br /><div> </div><br /><div>Transport Canada's back paddling on its recent decision to include human powered vessels such as kayaks, sail boats and canoes in new registration requirements. Minister of Transport Minsiter Chuck Strahl that these boats and in fact all small vessels with motors less than 7.5 kilowatts (10 horsepower) will no longer have to register their craft with Transport Canada. Ontario's ecotourism, adventure tourism and children's camps and resorts breathed a collective sigh of relief.</div><br /><div> </div><br /><div>The recently updated, meant to be simplified registration process will continue to be required for commercial river rafts, government vessels and for any vessels where registration is necessary for safety reasons. Thanks to input from the public, including <a href="http://www.orcka.ca/">ORCKA</a> and <a href="http://www.toes.ca/">tOES</a>, fleets of vessels can now also be registered for a reduced ($50 for 5 year) rate.</div><br /><div> </div><br /><div>"What doesn't change are the safety requirements. Small vessels, such as canoes and kayaks, their owners and users must continue to adhere to all safety requirements under the Canada Shipping Act." added Minister Strahl.</div><br /><div> </div><br /><div>For more information, see Transport Canada at <a href="http://www.tc.gc.ca/">www.tc.gc.ca</a></div><br /><div> </div>The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-27787685046703860252011-03-18T10:32:00.000-07:002011-03-18T10:47:18.164-07:00Sea Kayaking Instructors course with Geogian Bay Storm GatheringComing up this fall, a sea kayaking instructor's course timed to match a storm gathering on Georgian Bay ~ talk about maximize experience !<br /><br /><br />tOES member hosting <a href="http://www.toes.ca/en/our-members/toesmember-whitesquall.html">White Squall</a> do well to minimize the environmental impact of their quality sea kayaking experiences too. For example, they partner with many regional environmental stewardship initiatives including the <span class="browntext"><a href="http://www.gblt.org/" target="_blank">Georgian Bay Land Trust.</a></span><br /><br /><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:donotpromoteqf/> <w:lidthemeother>EN-CA</w:LidThemeOther> <w:lidthemeasian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:lidthemecomplexscript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> <w:splitpgbreakandparamark/> <w:dontvertaligncellwithsp/> <w:dontbreakconstrainedforcedtables/> <w:dontvertalignintxbx/> <w:word11kerningpairs/> 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mso-para-margin:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><span lang="EN-AU">Dates:</span></b><span lang="EN-AU"><span style=""> </span>Oct. 11<span style=""> </span>– Oct. 16<span style=""> </span>2011</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><span lang="EN-AU">Location:</span></b><span lang="EN-AU"><span style=""> </span>White Squall Paddling Centre</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><span lang="EN-AU">Cost:</span></b><span lang="EN-AU"><span style=""> </span>$800. + HST<span style=""> </span>- includes registration in Georgian Bay Storm Gathering</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><span lang="EN-AU">Registration:</span></b><span lang="EN-AU"><span style=""> </span>White Squall<span style=""> </span>(705) 342-5324<span style=""> </span><a href="mailto:info@whitesquall.com">info@whitesquall.com</a></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-AU"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-AU"><span style=""> </span></span></p> <h2><span lang="EN-AU">Overview</span></h2> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-AU">The 2011<span style=""> </span>Paddle Canada Level 2 Sea Kayak Instructor Course is being held in conjunction with the Georgian Bay Storm Gathering west of Parry Sound Ontario on Georgian Bay.<span style=""> </span>The Storm Gathering brings together some of Ontario’s top instructors as well as a committed group of participants – with a comprehensive offering of on and off-water presentations.<span style=""> </span>Instructor course candidates will<span style=""> </span>be provided with structured opportunities for<span style=""> </span>teaching intermediate paddlers in challenging conditions<span style=""> </span>Candidates should have strong Level 3 skills and past teaching experience.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-AU"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u><span lang="EN-AU">Director:</span></u></b><span lang="EN-AU"><span style=""> </span>Graham Ketcheson – Level 2 Inst. Trainer, Level 3 Inst. Executive Director -<span style=""> </span>Paddle Canada</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u><span lang="EN-AU">Instructor:</span></u></b><span lang="EN-AU"><span style=""> </span>Greg Mason – Level 1 Inst. Trainer, Level 3 Inst., General Manager -<span style=""> </span>Georgian Bay Biosphere<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-AU"> </span></p><p style="font-weight: bold;" class="MsoNormal">More info on:</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u><span lang="EN-AU">Storm Gathering:</span></u></b><span lang="EN-AU"><span style=""> </span><span style=""> <a href="http://www.georgianbaystormgathering.com"> </a></span><a href="http://www.georgianbaystormgathering.com">georgianbaystormgathering.com</a></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u><span lang="EN-AU">Paddle Canada:</span></u></b><span lang="EN-AU"><span style=""> </span><a href="http://www.georgianbaystormgathering.com">paddlecanada.com</a></span></p> <br /><br />Other ecotours, ecotourism events and courses this year in Ontario : (our <a href="http://www.toes.ca/en/news-events/calendar-events.html">calendar of events</a>)The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-73583770565592742652011-02-16T18:12:00.000-08:002011-02-16T18:57:05.830-08:00Ecotourism Conference - Call for SpeakersLEADING TOURISM INDUSTRY CONFERENCE SEEKING BEST PRACTICE CASE<br />STUDIES ON ECOTOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS STRATEGIES<br /><br />Call for Speakers Now Open for the Ecotourism and Sustainable Tourism Conference 2011 - September 19-21, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, USA<br /><br />WASHINGTON, February 15, 2011 - The ECOTOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE<br />TOURISM CONFERENCE (ESTC), now in its fifth year, is a unique annual tourism industry conference providing practical solutions and innovative ideas to help green the tourism industry. Organized by The International Ecotourism Society (TIES), this year's ESTC is being held from September 19-21, 2011, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, USA. The ESTC organizers are currently seeking quality submissions of speaker proposals highlighting key ecotourism and sustainable tourism best practice case studies.<br /><br />Dr. Kelly Bricker, TIES Board Chair and ESTC Co-Chair, urges sustainability experts, business leaders and policy makers to be an active part of the conference by taking advantage of the speaking opportunity at the ESTC. The ESTC 2011 will be a key meeting place for industry pioneers and those who are driving change in ecotourism and sustainable tourism, said Dr. Bricker. This is a great platform to share your knowledge and expertise with hundreds of key<br />industry players, and engage in dialogue promoting innovative ideas and inspiring solutions for a greener future of tourism.<br /><br /> The ESTC 2011 will feature presentations and discussions with the goal of helping tourism businesses and professionals gain necessary tools and resources to effectively implement social, environmental and economic sustainability practices. Designed around four main tracks Business Sustainability Practices; Conservation and Communities; Partnerships in Press, Policies and Politics; and Places and Experiences the ESTC 2011 sessions offer insights into questions such as:<br /><br /> * /What does it mean for mass tourism to go green;<br /> * /What makes some community-based ecotourism projects successful<br />- and others unsuccessful - in becoming viable businesses<br /> * /How can tourism businesses better partner with policy-makers<br />working on land management and permitting practices<br /> * /What does it take to become a frequently-written-about tourism<br />business<br /> * /How is interpretation used to effectively develop and promote<br />memorable experiences<br /><br /> The deadline for ESTC 2011 speaker application is Monday, March 21st, 2011. For more details on the proposed session topics and speaker submission guidelines, please see:<br /><a class="moz-txt-link-abbreviated" href="http://www.ecotourismconference.org/">WWW.ECOTOURISMCONFERENCE.ORG</a><br /><br />MEDIA CONTACT:<br /><br /> The International Ecotourism Society (TIES)<br />Ayako Ezaki, Director of Communications<br />Email: <a class="moz-txt-link-abbreviated" href="mailto:media@ecotourism.org">media@ecotourism.org</a>[5]<br />Phone: +1 202-503-5066<br /><br /> Hilton Head Island Visitor & Convention Bureau<br />Jessica Gardo, Manager, Marketing & PR<br />Email: <a class="moz-txt-link-abbreviated" href="mailto:jgardo@hiltonheadisland.org">jgardo@hiltonheadisland.org</a>[6]<br />Phone: +1 843-341-8377The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-55288747267125981652011-02-14T16:16:00.000-08:002011-02-14T16:29:31.927-08:00Eco-Business Zone planned and funded around Toronto's Pearson International AirportGreen Municipal Fund supports the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority’s Pearson's planned Eco-business Zone<br /><br />February 10, 2011, Toronto, Ont. – Hans Cunningham, president of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) and director of the Regional District of Central Kootenay, B.C., and the Honourable Christian Paradis, Minister of Natural Resources, today announced a Green Municipal FundTM (GMF) grant of $68,069 for the Region of Peel, the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority and the Greater Toronto Airports Authority. Together the partners have made an investment to develop North America’s largest eco-business zone on more than 12,000 hectares of industrial, commercial and institutional (ICI) land surrounding Toronto Pearson International Airport<br /><br />"Through the use of sustainability indicators, the plan assesses baseline levels of energy and water consumption and land use, while also setting targets for improvement in these areas. The plan lays the groundwork for eco-business infrastructure projects in the areas of transit, district energy, wastewater treatment, waste-to-energy initiatives and brownfield redevelopment."<br /><br />For more information: - see the <a href="http://www.sustainablecommunities.fcm.ca/files/News_Releases/News-Releases-2011/Toronto-region-conservatory-En.pdf">Press Releas</a>e on <a href="http://www.fcm.ca/gmf">www.fcm.ca/gmf</a><br /><br /><br /><h4 class="article-title"> </h4>The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-10078641057840770142011-01-23T12:03:00.001-08:002011-01-23T12:17:32.897-08:00tOES seeks consultant to partner with us to publish 2nd Ed of Responsible Suppliers Guide for Travel and Tourism in OntarioRequest for Proposals ~ Development of a 2nd Edition of the Responsible Suppliers Guide for Travel and Tourism in Ontario<br /><br /><strong>Requirement:</strong> The Ontario Eco-tourism Society is seeking proposals from consultants to provide professional services to create a 2nd edition of the Responsible Suppliers guide for Travel and Tourism in Ontario, both on line and in print versions.<br /><br /><strong>Deadline for submissions:</strong> 4 pm on Friday, Feb. 4th, 2011.<br />Period of Contract: Feb. 24th-Sept.30th, 2011<br /><br /><strong>Project Summary:</strong> The successful candidate will work to prepare and produce printed and online guides in 2011, using the standards of inclusion developed for the first Edition and with improved results / returns in terms of networking and funding/advertising exchanges. For detail, please refer to our <a href="http://www.toes.ca/en/news-events.html">news page </a>from which complete RFP and Terms of Reference are attached.<br /><br />For an online copy of our <a href="http://toes.ca/en/resources/suppliers-guide.html">1st Edition </a>of this resource, see our <a href="http://toes.ca/en/resources.html">resources page</a>:The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-5397779927666731192011-01-13T11:59:00.000-08:002011-01-13T12:35:02.839-08:00tOES Starts the New Year with fresh ideas on our board and with our members' packagesThe Ontario Ecotourism Society is celebrating the new year with fresh ideas and energy on our board of directors. To learn more about new board members, roles and the outcomes of our December 2010 Annual General Meeting, check out our <a href="http://www.toes.ca/en/news-events.html">news webpage. </a><br /><br />Our professional members, a diverse group of ecotourism operators based in Ontario are also offering a great variety of refreshing ways to get out and enjoy this winter. From cross-country skiing weekends and snowshoe and dogsledding adventures to yoga retreats, their ecotours deliver vacations that are good for both travellers and the earth and waters. Here's a sampling of what January holds, please see our <a href="http://toes.ca/en/news-events/calendar-events.html">events page </a>or <a href="http://toes.ca/en/our-members.html">members' listing </a>for more recomended winter ecotours and events in Ontario.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.yoursoutdoors.ca/packageversions.php?id=32">Walk into Winter </a>Hike, Sat. Jan 2nd or weekend experience Jan-March, Haliburton ~ by<a href="http://www.yoursoutdoors.ca/"> Yours Outdoors</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.naturesharmony.ca/Posters/Winter.pdf">The Ultimate Winter Experience !</a> ~ kicksledding, tube tobogganing, sauna....~ 15% off accommodation & experience packages until Jan 23rd at Nature's Harmony, MattawaThe Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-53301272040199943942010-11-21T12:10:00.000-08:002010-11-21T12:28:20.131-08:00Join us ~ by livestream, train, carpool..tOES AGM Dec. 4thYou're invited ~ tOES AGM on Dec. 4, 2010<br /><br />All members and potential members interested in building a sustainable tourism industry in Ontario are invited to take part in the tOES AGM and the priorities we set there for our projects in the year ahead.<br /><br />You can join us at our South River Blue Canoe location (accomodations available through member <a href="http://www.northernedgealgonquin.com/">Northern Edge Algonquin</a>) by public transportation or from the comfort of your own home or business. We will be livecasting from 11 am - 12 noon. You will be able to watch, listen and add comments to the meeting in real time from your computer.<br /><br />Meeting Agenda<br />1. Welcome and Annual Summary of Work<br />2. Treasurer's Report<br />3. Recognition of Directors<br />4. Election of New Directors<br />5. Facilitated Discussion of 2011 work priorities ~ the Board welcomes tOES member input on charting direction for our projects, funding applications and membership services in the year ahead.<br /><br />If you are interested to join the meeting you need to:<br />1. email to let us know; <a href="mailto:admin@toes.ca">admin@toes.ca</a><br />2. open a livestream account (no cost to you) - login to northernedgealgonquin.com/live-video.html and set up an account (while further ahead is recomended, you can set up the account 10 minutes beforer the meeting and still join us).<br />3. Login to your livestream account at 11 am Sat. Dec. 4 and join the meeting.<br />4. There is no cost to you to participate.<br /><br />Look forward to your input!The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-12040129985781632212010-11-09T12:03:00.000-08:002010-11-18T11:30:45.477-08:00tOES members honoured at Ontario Tourism Summit AwardsOn the evening of Monday November 8 th, 2010 two members of the Ontario Ecotourism Society (tOES) were honoured with nominations and one with an award at the Ontario Tourism Awards Gala and Dinner.<br /><br />The Ontario Tourism Awards celebrate excellence and innovation in the tourism industry. The program is organized by the Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership Corporation (OTMPC) in partnership with judges such as those with the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario. The awards presentations were made at the gala dinner portion of the OTMPC's Tourism Summit conference at Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville, Ontario.<br /><br />tOES members, the <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.wolfdenbunkhouse.com">Wolf Den Hostel and Nature Retreat </a>and <a href="http://www.northernedgealgonquin.com/">Northern Edge Algonquin </a>were both nominated for the Industry Awards of Excellence in Sustainable Tourism, with the latter winning the award. Northern Edge was commended for the example they've set in building their solar-powered nature-retreat centre and over the last 15 years at the NW corner of Algonquin Park and the sustainability of their business and programs that reconnect visitors with themselves, the environment and community. The innovative partnership they engaged in this past year with another tOES member, <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.biketrain.ca">the Bike Train</a>, through their Rails, Trails and Ales program was highlighted as one of the drivers for judges to recognize this family-run company as an industry leader.<br /><br />Co-founders of Northern Edge Algonquin, Todd and Martha Lucier both took the stage to accept the award. They gave thanks to the team of staff and partners who have helped build their successfull and sustainable business over the years, mentioning in particular Greg Waters who has not only overseen the building of inspiring spaces with sustainable materials but the serving of delicious, locally sourced and primarily organic cuisine as well. Todd also proved his leadership within the industry, encouraging the significant representation of Ontario's tourism industry present in the room to not consider the field limited to the likes of the two small retreats set in Algonquin Park, but that "everyone in this room can do sustainable tourism". He reminded attendees that energy and water conservation, renewable power sources and sustainable products and waste treatments are not only possible but important for all in the tourism industry to engage with if our industry is to survive and thrive in the future.<br /><br />The Summit Awards and Conference programs were attended by tOES board members intending to use networking and learning gained there to strengthen our education and marketing programs supporting sustainable tourism in Ontario in the weeks and year to come. Some follow-up will be discussed at the tOES AGM to be held December 4, 2010...could be an expanded tOES Sponsored Sustainable Tourism Awards program, a new partnership proposal with the OTMPC.. <a href="http://www.toes.ca/en/get-involved/membership.html">join</a> or <a href="http://www.toes.ca/en/contact-us.html">contact us</a> to support us in these endeavours or to attend the AGM.<br /><br />written by Kara MitchellThe Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-80185357641402406682010-09-16T12:55:00.000-07:002010-09-16T13:07:34.163-07:00Ecotourism Marketing...What are the Neighbours Doing ?~ a selection from summer 2010 issue of Ecotourism Ontario, a quarterly newsletter of the Ontario Ecotourism Society geared towards the striving-for-sustainability members of the tourism industry. This article is contributed by editor, Rod Bilz of FRi Ecological Services<br /><br />Type “cycling Quebec” in Google and you will be rewarded with a virtual smorgasbord<br />of cycling adventures in the Province of Quebec. The theme of this issue is “Marketing Ecotourism” and Vélo Québec is a perfect example of a well-executed marketing program for a world-class cycling ecotourism product. National Geographic ranked “La Route Verte” first in the top 10 cycling routes on the planet. They must be doing something right. What makes this<br />product and the associated marketing so successful?<br />I just returned from a 5-day cycling tour on the Véloroute des Bleuets around Lac St. Jean (Part of “La Route Verte”) and experienced firsthand what it takes to successfully market and deliver a top-notch product. Obviously the web presence by Vélo Québec is a great starting point and they certainly have done an excellent job ensuring it is easy to find cycling tourism products in Québec. I am not going to spend a lot of time on this component of their marketing because several of the articles in this issue deal specifically with electronic media and marketing.<br />Perhaps the stronger ties with Europe has allowed Québec to build a culture that sees<br />cycling as a valid means of transportation and recreation. That cycling culture is evident<br />everywhere you look. The Véloroute des Bleuets was a showpiece collaboration effort between<br />15 municipalities, local First Nations, cycling associations and the province. The initial<br />$10 millon investment has provided an annual return of at least $6 million per year since<br />2000.<br />There is no doubt at anytime that you are travelling on the Véloroute. The signage is effective and evident everywhere. The signage itself is an effective marketing tool for anyone that is traveling through the region. But it is much more than signs along the route<br />and a web site. You can feel the commitment of the community with each person that you meet. Everything from signs on the business windows declaring “Cyclists Welcome” to the more concrete things like secure bicycle lock-ups and storage at restaurants and water stations along the route. There is a real atmosphere of promoting the region that is known as the<br />blueberry capital of Québec. The restaurants offer local foods and the blueberry features prominently.<br />So what are the neighbours doing? They are doing it right. Marketing really can encompass everything you do and probably should.<br /><br />To<a href="http://www.toes.ca/en/news-events/newsletters.html"> download the rest of this issue</a> of Ecotourism Ontario see us at: www.toes.caThe Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-27418391997062344922010-02-16T12:09:00.000-08:002010-02-16T12:15:13.868-08:00Call for Speakers - Interational Ecotourism ConferenceOpportunity to Present at Leading Tourism Industry<br /> Conference on Sustainability<br /><br /> Call for speakers now open for the Ecotourism and Sustainable Tourism Conference 2010 (ESTC 2010) – September 8-10, Portland OR, USA<br /><br /> Portland, OR, February 2, 2010 - Pioneering ecotourism and sustainable travel organization, The International Ecotourism Society (TIES), this year presents its ESTC in Portland, Oregon, with a call for speakers to present on conference sessions focusing on triple bottom line approaches to sustainability in travel and tourism. Co-hosted by Travel Portland and Travel Oregon, the ESTC 2010 will bring together 450+ business leaders, travel and tourism professionals and community members.<br /><br /> Representing the conference organizers, Dr. Kelly Bricker, Chair of TIES Board of Directors and Co-Chair of the ESTC 2010, urges tourism professionals and industry leaders to play an active role in the conference by participating as a speaker. “Highlighting innovative multi-stakeholder solutions,” notes Dr. Bricker, “the ESTC 2010 will be a key meeting place for sustainability experts, business leaders and policy makers who are driving innovation and sustainable change in ecotourism and sustainable tourism. We encourage you to take advantage of this unique opportunity to share your knowledge and experience with hundreds of key players in the field of ecotourism and sustainable tourism.”<br /><br /> An increasing number of ecotourism and sustainable tourism businesses around the world are recognizing the importance of sustainability as a market driver, and the need to implement effective business strategies to cater to the choices of the new travel consumer seeking travel experiences that align with their environmental and social values, not just economic considerations.<br /><br /> Noting the shift in consumer trend, Richard Edwards, Director of Planeterra Foundation and Co-Chair of the ESTC 2010, calls for tourism professionals to share creative ideas and practical solutions. “We are focusing on sustainability and authenticity as effective responses to the fundamental change that the travel industry has experienced in recent years,” says Edwards. “Rather than discussing what happened as a result of the economic crisis, the conference will foster new opportunities through partnerships and collaboration by engaging participants in action-focused dialogues addressing business opportunities, environmental solutions and community initiatives.”<br /><br /> The ESTC is designed to utilize practical examples of ecotourism and sustainable tourism strategies so that attendees can implement these tools. The ESTC 2010 organizers are seeking submissions of presentation abstracts, that incorporate case studies and best practice examples based on academic research and/or applied experience. Speaker application instructions and online application form can be accessed at: <a href="http://www.ecotourism.org/estc2010-call-for-speakers">www.ecotourism.org/estc2010-call-for-speakers</a>.<br /><br /> ESTC 2010 sponsors and partners include: Host Destination Travel Portland and Travel Oregon, Expedition Sponsor Gap Adventures, Voluntourism Partner Planeterra Foundation, Journey Sponsor La Cusinga Lodge, and University Partner University of Utah (Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism).<br /><br /> <br /><br /> About ESTC<br /><br /> ESTC 2010Providing invaluable networking and knowledge sharing experiences, the Ecotourism and Sustainable Tourism Conference (ESTC) is a place where innovative minds meet to discuss practical ideas and solutions, and to bring about change in the tourism industry. Hosted by Travel Portland and Travel Oregon, the ESTC 2010 will be held in Portland, Oregon, from September 8-10, 2010. The ESTC 2010 will bring together business leaders, travel and tourism professionals and community members, providing opportunities to share the latest trends in ecotourism and sustainable tourism.<br /><br /> About TIES<br /><br /> <a href="http://www.ecotourism.org">The International Ecotourism Society (TIES)</a> is a non-profit association committed to promoting ecotourism, which is defined as "responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people" (TIES, 1990), through outreach, education, and collaboration. TIES' global network supports and is supported by members from over 90 countries, who are leading the vital efforts to make travel and tourism more sustainable.The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-92035320516096859792010-01-22T15:26:00.000-08:002010-01-22T16:34:25.650-08:00Market Survey finds demand for EcotourismIs there proof that the marketplace demand for sustainable tourism exists and is growing? This is a question we find ourselves at tOES occasionally asked.
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{page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0cm; mso-para-margin-right:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0cm; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]--> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">(From CTC’s Green Your Business Toolkit for tourism Operators)</span></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: "HelveticaNeueLT-Light","sans-serif"; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">"... growing market of sustainably minded<o:p></o:p> travellers. Variously labelled as "ethical travellers," "future-shapers," or "green consumers," this group's<o:p></o:p> purchase decisions are now being noted across a wide range of markets. Although concerns about price<o:p></o:p> or weather at the destination continue to be important factors in choosing vacations and packages, a<o:p></o:p> growing number of travellers are making purchase decisions based on a prospective destination's<o:p></o:p> commitment to sustainable business practices.
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: "HelveticaNeueLT-Light","sans-serif"; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: "HelveticaNeueLT-Light","sans-serif"; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">Preliminary findings from the CTC's 2008 Global Tourism<o:p></o:p> Watch survey reveal a growing number of consumers in the nation's core markets are interested in<o:p></o:p> sustainable tourism and are willing to pay a premium for sustainable travel products. Of the nine countries<o:p></o:p> surveyed, 60% of travellers (on average) in those countries are willing to pay a one percent to 10%<o:p></o:p> premium for environmentally friendly travel products.<o:p></o:p> Another international survey (TripAdvisor, April 2007) of 1,000 travellers worldwide found that 40% take<o:p></o:p> environmentally friendly tourism into consideration when making travel plans. TNS Canadian Facts has<o:p></o:p> found in its own survey research that these "future shapers" exhibit a growing awareness of global warming<o:p></o:p> and of matters such as child labour or the plight of indigenous peoples. Many of these travellers plan their<o:p></o:p> trips independently, are Web savvy and are beginning to alter purchasing habits. Beyond their commitment<o:p></o:p> to "green" values, these consumers expect higher standards of cuisine, accessibility to spa and wellness<o:p></o:p> facilities, and other higher value "authentic" products and experiences.
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;">
<br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: "HelveticaNeueLT-Light","sans-serif"; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"></span><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: "HelveticaNeueLT-Light","sans-serif"; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;">To see <a href="http://www.tns-cf.com/marketing/travel.html">TNS Canadian Facts full market survey presentation</a> and other ecotourism research, see our <a href="http://toes.ca/en/resources/links-research.html">resources page.</a>
<br /></p>The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-17570897661649320192010-01-14T19:05:00.000-08:002010-01-14T19:11:13.208-08:00The Tourism Sustainability CouncilThe Tourism Sustainability Council - an article featured in <span style="font-style: italic;">Ecotourism </span><span style="font-style: italic;">Ontario</span> , winter 2010 edition. See our <a href="http://www.toes.ca/en/news-events/newsletters.html">newsletter pages</a> for the complete and past publications.<br /><br />Contributor: Catalina Etcheverry (United Nations Foundation)<br /> Sustainable Tourism Program Manager<br /><br />The widespread and worldwide movement towards sustainable production and consumption is finally catching up with the tourism industry. Luckily policy makers, business owners, service providers, local, national, and regional industry associations, academic institutions, non-governmental organizations, and concerned travelers are all beginning to recognize the role they have to play in promoting sustainable tourism. As a result, they are looking for ways to inform their decision making and verify the credibility of the tourism products they support. There is great potential right now to think smartly about how the tourism market can be used to preserve the environment and change people’s lives.<br /><br />The Tourism Sustainability Council is borne with the mission to improve tourism’s potential to be a driver of positive conservation and economic development for communities and businesses around the world and a tool for poverty alleviation. It is a multi-stakeholder initiative created to serve as the international body for fostering the increased knowledge and understanding of sustainable tourism practices, promoting the adoption of universal sustainable tourism principles, and increasing the access to markets of sustainable product.<br /><br />The biggest challenge for sustainable tourism was that, until recently, there was no clear and easily digestible definition with universal buy-in among the tourism industry, travelers, media and others. With no "common denominator" of what would be considered sustainable, there is inevitable uncertainty among travelers as to what they're actually embarking on and a certain inherit skepticism in the process. Clearly this artificially dampens the value of sustainability for operators and destinations. Until recently, there were hundreds of different measures for what constituted “sustainable tourism.” Some were good; some were bad; none was universal.<br />And so, along with the Rainforest Alliance, the UN Environment Programme, and the UN World Tourism Organization, the UN Foundation reached out to over 80,000 people and engaged more than 30 organizations to help launch a global standard for “sustainable tourism” that would let everyone know that they are on the same page. In 2008, a coalition of more than 50 partners representing industry, governments, nongovernmental organizations and academia, launched the Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria, a set of 37 criteria derived from certifications and best practices that are global in nature and feasible to implement.<br /><br />Using these Criteria as a guide, tourists will know if they are traveling in a responsible way. Businesses, big and small, can profit from being able to certify their good works as they attract a growing number of people around the world who see personal value in this kind of tourism. The goal with the Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria is to help leverage and capitalize on the growing consumer interest by aligning all tourism stakeholders with a common understanding of sustainable tourism – from purchasers to suppliers to consumers.<br /><br />The Criteria’s success depends on its universality, so great pains were taken to get everyone’s input over the course of 18 months. Through this process, four main characteristics that define sustainable tourism were developed: maximizing tourism’s social and economic benefits to local communities; reducing negative impacts on cultural heritage; reducing harm to local environments; and planning for long term sustainability.<br /><br />To some this may sound like something that fits into the traditional mold of corporate social responsibility. But, it is becoming increasingly clear that tourists and travelers are beginning to demand sustainable tourism options. Embracing these values and practices early in the game will allow businesses to maximize their profits and become pioneers of sustainable tourism, a once in a lifetime opportunity.The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-11022874873294313772009-12-30T08:29:00.000-08:002009-12-30T08:54:22.974-08:00Cycling Ecotour for Youth - Ontario and CanadaHere's an enriching sustainable travel and group living & learning experience for adults 19-30 organized by non-profit group based in Ottawa, Otesha. They have organized for 2010 (March deadline for participant registration) some inspiring partnerships with organic farms and cycling routes both here in Ontario and across Canada. I've worked with a few alumni and past communities touched by the project in the ecotourism and education fields and found that they gained significantly from the volunteer experience.<br />~ Kara Mitchell of tOES<br /><br /><br /><table style="border: 1px solid rgb(48, 143, 191); width: 600px; background-repeat: repeat; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);" width="600" background="http://origin.ih.constantcontact.com/fs058/1102224453022/img/111.jpg" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="7" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td style="padding: 7px;" rowspan="1" colspan="2" width="100%" valign="top"><table style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);" width="100%" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td rowspan="1" colspan="1" align="center"><img name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.64" alt="Katimavik volunteer" src="http://origin.ih.constantcontact.com/fs058/1102224453022/img/64.gif?a=1102888729926" width="172" border="0" height="53" /><br /> </td> </tr> </tbody></table></td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 7px;" rowspan="1" colspan="2" width="100%"> <table style="background-color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" bg="" width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr align="center"> <td rowspan="1" colspan="1" height="10"><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 153, 255);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:130%;" ><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">In Search of Change-Making Cycling Volunteers</span></span><br /> </td></tr> </tbody></table><table style="background-color: rgb(0, 0, 102);" width="100%" bgcolor="#66cc00" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr> <td rowspan="1" colspan="1" height="10"> <br /></td></tr> </tbody></table> <table style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; margin-bottom: 6px; min-height: 0pt; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);" bg="" width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr><td style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:8pt;" rowspan="1" colspan="1" align="left" valign="top"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:78%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153); font-weight: bold;font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:85%;" >What is The Otesha Project</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 153); font-weight: bold;font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:85%;" >?</span><br /> <span style=";font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:78%;" ><span lang="EN-CA"><span><span>The Otesha Project is a Canadian non-profit organization. </span></span></span></span><span style=";font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:78%;" >We organize bicycle tours which engage with communities through theatre, aiming to mobilize youth to make change in their communities, and the world. <span style=";font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:78%;" ><span lang="EN-CA"><span><span>We believe that we can create a more sustainable future by building community, making<span> conscious lifestyle choices, reducing consumption and having a really good time all the while.</span></span></span></span></span> We'd like <span style="font-weight: bold;">you</span> to join us as a <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tour Member</span> on a challenging journey towards sustainability.</span><br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><img name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.109" alt="Katimavik volunteer" src="http://origin.ih.constantcontact.com/fs058/1102224453022/img/109.jpg?a=1102888729926" width="440" border="0" height="71" /><br /> </div></span></td> </tr> </tbody></table><table style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; margin-bottom: 6px; min-height: 0pt; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-color: rgb(204, 255, 153);" bg="" width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr><td style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:8pt;" rowspan="1" colspan="1" align="left" valign="top"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:78%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153); font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" >The Vision</span><br /> The Otesha Project's vision is to see sustainable consumption and lifestyle choices enter the mainstream of Canadian culture.<br /></span></td> </tr> </tbody></table><table style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; margin-bottom: 6px; min-height: 0pt; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-color: rgb(153, 204, 0);" bg="" width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr> <td style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:8pt;" rowspan="1" colspan="1" align="left" valign="top"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:78%;" ><img name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.74" alt="Katimavik volunteer" src="http://origin.ih.constantcontact.com/fs058/1102224453022/img/74.jpg?a=1102888729926" width="202" align="right" border="0" height="151" /><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 153);font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">What does it mean to be a Tour Member?</span></span><br /> As a tour member you'll answer tough questions about how you want to live and through collaboration with other amazing, hopeful, energetic young people (your teammates!) you'll build a mobile sustainable community. Before you know it, your bicycle will become a vehicle of change. Ingredients include: leadership training, phenomenal bike touring, and a hilarious play that opens the conversation about environmental sustainability and social justice issues with thousands of Canadians.<br /><br />Visit our <a shape="rect" href="http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102888729926&s=31&e=001i694TMX9M32G7BCsXRpmpvMQkPtPmANpD0dpe79sOW5QOyQFwOxyxgT3jN3nW_ieOzjE3LaPF4B3_rwYjJt9uoPWY9H6ja9KSPITj4aRycSQ2vBTJozCCBrKEBqoI2KQRMH5Y6qNkZaAmywxOq2FSO2oymCc41Lx" target="_blank">infopack</a> for more info, including 'a day in the life of a tour member', and fundraising details.<br /> <br />What tours could you go on? ...check them out, below.<br /></span></td> </tr> </tbody></table><table style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; margin-bottom: 6px; min-height: 0pt; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-color: rgb(255, 102, 51);" bg="" width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr> <td style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:8pt;" rowspan="1" colspan="1" align="left" valign="top"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 255, 153);font-size:85%;" >Tours of 2010</span><br /> In 2010 the Otesha Project is offering three of the craziest cycling and performing tours it has cooked up since it started in 2003. The details are below - and frequently asked questions answered on our<a shape="rect" href="http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102888729926&s=31&e=001i694TMX9M33wAIRksJypCZkV4GIWL3ARpfqU3qETOeHtohzuPbKxK_x-5pWXjRVkAeIdweffBo9yj2ctj4PI4DdsOSmeNHBwXTFoJCrLqSNrCW86hDULvWQZuSkjoV11oIqlIeRXaT6RNDnidzW7NKkkSEQC0xuH06gI5DwaKxP8d3my_OlIxQ==" target="_blank"> faq's page</a>. If you apply before <span style="font-weight: bold;">February 15th</span> you will receive two books to go towards your fundraising efforts. Applications close on <span style="font-weight: bold;">March 15th, 2010</span>. You can <a shape="rect" href="http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102888729926&s=31&e=001i694TMX9M336sNUFEzPeeJERJJ7vs1HGOp2VZIvB_yHvUhDRg4hs0K0RGIb5Bgqhu58Hxkth_aiSIf9EVGW15ZFYN7Gy8g3WVPk98Cc4XqfP3StbaMLwOUwEM4s9BlL_KNmG3SRhfaPOApRrXFItyVpyZ5xMVmz0N3gzvENb5E5Vs0fcfYV7v6zEutapxIuAexO1-F-TMPuY85T5FsmgZg==" target="_blank">apply online</a>!<br /> </span></td> </tr> </tbody></table></td> </tr> <tr> <td rowspan="1" colspan="2"> <table width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr valign="top"> <td style="padding: 7px; width: 300px;" rowspan="1" colspan="1" width="300"> <a name="12599fcc93f3f620_125983918b72ee17_12594391fc8047bd_125943628d0d4206_12594292714b5501_125941b3f33d23a4_LETTER.BLOCK8"></a><table style="border: 1px solid rgb(192, 113, 31); min-height: 0pt; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 102); margin-bottom: 6px; color: rgb(255, 255, 102);" bg="" width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr> <td style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:8pt;" rowspan="1" colspan="1" align="left" valign="top"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:78%;" > <span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 153);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;" ><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 153);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:85%;" ><b> Ferocious Farm Tour</b></span></span><br /> <b>Ottawa to Toronto and Back! </b><i><span><br />May 3 - June 25 or Aug 28 (2-4 months)</span></i><p><span>This tour will focus its performance route on farming based communities, providing an opportunity to connect to & understand the food landscape of Ontario. Tour members can extend their experience by working on small scale and/or organic Ontario farm for the months of July and August. Learning extravaganza! To learn more, go to <a shape="rect" href="http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102888729926&s=31&e=001i694TMX9M33wAIRksJypCZkV4GIWL3ARpfqU3qETOeHtohzuPbKxK_x-5pWXjRVkAeIdweffBo9yj2ctj4PI4DdsOSmeNHBwXTFoJCrLqSNrCW86hDULvWQZuSkjoV11oIqlIeRXaT6RNDnidzW7NKkkSEQC0xuH06gI5DwaKxP8d3my_OlIxQ==" title="Frequently Asked Questions" target="_blank">FAQs</a>.</span></p> </span></td> </tr> </tbody></table><a name="12599fcc93f3f620_125983918b72ee17_12594391fc8047bd_125943628d0d4206_12594292714b5501_125941b3f33d23a4_LETTER.BLOCK9"></a><table style="border: 1px solid rgb(192, 113, 31); min-height: 0pt; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 102); margin-bottom: 6px; color: rgb(255, 255, 102);" bg="" width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr> <td style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:8pt;" rowspan="1" colspan="1" align="left" valign="top"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:78%;" > <span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 153);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;" ><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 153);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:85%;" ><b> Coast to Capital</b></span></span><br /> <b>Vancouver to Ottawa<br /></b><span><i><span>June 25 to Oct 20 (4 months)</span></i></span><br /> <div><span><i><span><br /></span></i>Ride through the Rockies, across the Prairies and skirt down the edge of the Great Lakes, ending up in our nation's capital. Watch the landscape change as you ride with the seasons, starting in the summer and rolling to a close as the leaves drop. Epic adventure! Physically Challenging!</span></div><div> </div> </span></td> </tr> </tbody></table><a name="12599fcc93f3f620_125983918b72ee17_12594391fc8047bd_125943628d0d4206_12594292714b5501_125941b3f33d23a4_LETTER.BLOCK10"></a><table style="border: 1px solid rgb(192, 113, 31); min-height: 0pt; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 102); margin-bottom: 6px; color: rgb(255, 255, 102);" bg="" width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr> <td style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:8pt;" rowspan="1" colspan="1" align="left" valign="top"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:78%;" > <span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 153);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;" ><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 153);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:85%;" ><b> Highlands and Islands</b></span></span><br /> <b>Fredericton to Halifax</b><i><span><br />Sept 7 to Nov 2 (2 months)</span></i><p><span>Ride with the tides, dance with the Scots and pull some red mud potatoes while you're at it! This route starts in New Brunswick and tours to each breathtaking corner of Prince Edward Island. Finally, it crosses the hills of Nova Scotia ending up in Halifax. Lots of Performing!</span></p> </span></td> </tr> </tbody></table></td> <td style="padding: 7px; width: 300px;" rowspan="1" colspan="1" width="300"> <a name="12599fcc93f3f620_125983918b72ee17_12594391fc8047bd_125943628d0d4206_12594292714b5501_125941b3f33d23a4_LETTER.BLOCK11"></a><table style="border: 1px solid rgb(192, 113, 31); min-height: 0pt; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 102); margin-bottom: 6px; color: rgb(255, 255, 102);" bg="" width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr> <td style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:8pt;" rowspan="1" colspan="1" align="left" valign="top"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:78%;" ><div style="text-align: center;"> <img name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.85" alt="Katimavik volunteer" src="http://origin.ih.constantcontact.com/fs058/1102224453022/img/85.jpg?a=1102888729926" width="268" border="0" height="177" /><br /></div> </span></td> </tr> </tbody></table><a name="12599fcc93f3f620_125983918b72ee17_12594391fc8047bd_125943628d0d4206_12594292714b5501_125941b3f33d23a4_LETTER.BLOCK12"></a><table style="border: 1px solid rgb(192, 113, 31); min-height: 0pt; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 102); margin-bottom: 6px; color: rgb(255, 255, 102);" bg="" width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr> <td style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:8pt;" rowspan="1" colspan="1" align="center" valign="top"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:78%;" ><img name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.105" alt="Map Reading" src="http://origin.ih.constantcontact.com/fs058/1102224453022/img/105.jpg?a=1102888729926" width="235" border="0" height="174" /> <span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 153);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;" ><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 153);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:85%;" ><b><br /> </b></span></span></span></td> </tr> </tbody></table><a name="12599fcc93f3f620_125983918b72ee17_12594391fc8047bd_125943628d0d4206_12594292714b5501_125941b3f33d23a4_LETTER.BLOCK13"></a><table style="border: 1px solid rgb(192, 113, 31); min-height: 0pt; background-repeat: no-repeat; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 102); margin-bottom: 6px; color: rgb(255, 255, 102);" bg="" width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr> <td style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:8pt;" rowspan="1" colspan="1" align="left" valign="top"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:78%;" ><div style="text-align: center;"> <img name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.98" alt="Katimavik volunteer" src="http://origin.ih.constantcontact.com/fs058/1102224453022/img/98.jpg?a=1102888729926" width="235" border="0" height="155" /><br /></div> </span></td> </tr> </tbody></table></td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 7px;" rowspan="1" colspan="2" width="100%"> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 7px;" rowspan="1" colspan="2" width="100%"> <table style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); margin-bottom: 6px; color: rgb(255, 255, 255);" bg="" width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr> <td style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:8pt;" rowspan="1" colspan="1" align="left"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:78%;" > <div><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);">Ready to walk your talk? </span><a shape="rect" href="http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102888729926&s=31&e=001i694TMX9M310Bxoo3AsyjkKojQ6fTnvi8UyQ_gtCkf_bQzM-qC2rmoLBVJHMRUY6txXBs6adU8rE6S5cYLmiHzK-GbCHsi8S7-XQy8hPxArcLdCnTGuvoyhur-ZSI0yFjoAtaXl4CwiKiB0qXqUKZQ==" target="_blank">Apply</a>. Or email us with questions at <a href="javascript:top.opencompose('info@otesha.ca','','','')" target="_blank">info@otesha.ca</a>, follow us on <a shape="rect" href="http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102888729926&s=31&e=001i694TMX9M31qExfjfUMloG6EUfH1YoCV1w3rep37MHmIrj7uqboP8FnytIcvFkWqRtZ87Nhx7kHJEYj8jV5mSOXI65506CQHzwfyACiEcUwmlW7lVAMW67WBOi6taon5" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, & add us on Facebook! To hear more from us, sign up to receive our monthly e-journal <a shape="rect" href="http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102888729926&s=31&e=001i694TMX9M33wM6dNfGNxm9RenIPMrelD1k14SCyWAoPdwhey7aelUojfU0xAijQASLSR7LSY-AdUeDyV8VwA7i5EY8dtrTy-OQS2J71-_xvsxZj4xNlDyfQbBe3chvDdl5KVqG6S22hcipA9VA5Gp-XPUHmbMPvi" target="_blank">here</a>.<br /> <br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);">Peace & Bicycle Grease, </span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102); font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;font-family:Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;" >The Otesha Project</span></span><br /> <br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.110" alt="Katimavik volunteer" src="http://origin.ih.constantcontact.com/fs058/1102224453022/img/110.jpg?a=1102888729926" width="440" border="0" height="78" /><br /> </div></div></span></td> </tr> </tbody></table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="padding: 7px;" rowspan="1" colspan="2" width="100%" height="10"> <br /></td></tr></tbody></table>The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-56919449009517389852009-12-12T07:48:00.000-08:002009-12-12T08:29:00.529-08:00How to list green travel experiences you offer in Ontario on Ontario Tourism WebsitesHey there green travel and ecotourism operators offering eco travel experiences in Ontario<br /><br />If you haven't already taken advantage of free online listings available with Ontario Tourism, check out the <a href="http://www.tourismpartners.com/TcisCtrl?site=partners&key1=siteTools&key2=help&language=EN">how-to-page</a> and / or learn more about marketing opportunities available with the OTMPC (Ontario Tourism and Marketing Partnership Corporation) at <a href="http://www.tourismpartners.com/">www.tourismpartners.com</a> (deadlines for 2010 print advertising are listed here too)<br /><br />For outdoor experiences you offer in Ontario, they have another website, <a href="http://www.ontariotravel.net/outdoor">www.ontariotravel.net/outdoor</a> on which you can receive up to 6 listings / eco tour package descriptions. To do so, contact Heather Bot (heatherbot "at" vianet.ca) & she'll send a form. <br /><br />Based in Northern Ontario? stay tuned for more info on being represented in a new marketing site being built to represent the north and how eco travel experiences you offer there will be represented. If you're intersted in helping tOES provide ecotourism specific content for that site, email us at getinvolved "at" toes.ca .<br /><br />See<a href="http://www.toes.ca/en/our-members.html"> tOES members listings </a>to find leaders in green travel experiences in canada, the best eco tourism experiences our lands, waters and people have to offer.The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-72379773633037020042009-11-17T10:47:00.000-08:002009-11-17T10:49:25.040-08:00Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership CorporationMarketing Information Sessions<strong>Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership CorporationMarketing Information Sessions</strong><br />~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~OTMPC is offering a series of workshops across Ontario to informtourism stakeholdersabout their programs and how to align with their tourism marketing.All sessions are free and include lunch. Register directly with OTMPCby emailing<a class="fixed" onclick="popup_imp('/horde/imp/compose.php',700,650,'to=events%40ontario.ca&thismailbox=INBOX');" href="https://webmail.opentransfer.com/horde/imp/message.php?index=1687#" nicetitle="New Message to events@ontario.ca">events@ontario.ca</a> Learn about the Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership Corporation(OTMPC) marketingplans for the coming year and how you can get involved in OTMPCprograms, partnershipopportunities, and leveraging of the Ontario brand.Interact with the OTMPC's in-house marketing, partnership, Ontariotravel information,and Ministry of Tourism staff.Register now [mailto:<a class="fixed" onclick="popup_imp('/horde/imp/compose.php',700,650,'to=events%40ontario.ca&thismailbox=INBOX');" href="https://webmail.opentransfer.com/horde/imp/message.php?index=1687#" nicetitle="New Message to events@ontario.ca">events@ontario.ca</a>] for an engaging discussion onthese and other topics to learn how you can align your activities with OTMPC.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br /><br />- Stratford -DATE: Wednesday, November 18, 2009TIME: 10:00am - 2:00pm (lunch is provided)LOCATION: Stratford Old City Hall AuditoriumMain Floor, Old City Hall1 Wellington Street, Stratford, ON N5A 6W1RSVP by Monday, November 16:<br /><br />Kingston -DATE: Tuesday, November 24, 2009TIME: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm (lunch is provided)LOCATION: Old Fort Henry , Dining Room1 Fort Henry Drive, Back (East) Gate entranceRSVP by Monday, November 23:<br /><br />Cobourg -DATE: Wednesday, November 25, 2009TIME: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm (lunch is provided)LOCATION: Northumberland Heights, Birch Room795 Northumberland Heights Road, Cobourg, ON K9A 4J8RSVP by November 18:<br /><br />Burlington -DATE: Thursday, November 26, 2009TIME: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm (lunch is provided)LOCATION: Royal Botanical Gardens, Café Annex680 Plains Rd W, Burlington, ON L7T 4H4RSVP by November 23:<br /><br />Vaughan -DATE: Tuesday, December 1, 2009TIME: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm (lunch is provided)LOCATION: Holiday Inn Express, 6100 Highway 7Vaughan West II RoomVaughan, ON L4H 0R2RSVP by November 25:<br /><br />Gravenhurst -DATE: Wednesday, December 2, 2009TIME: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm (lunch is provided)LOCATION: Muskoka Boat & Heritage Centre, Ditchburn Room275 Steamship Bay RoadGravenhurst, ON P1P 1Z0RSVP by November 30:<br /><br />Collingwood -DATE: Thursday, December 3, 2009TIME: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm (lunch is provided)LOCATION: Blue Mountain Village Conference CentreNippising Room242 Jozo Weider Blvd.Blue Mountains, ON L9Y 3Z2RSVP by November 30:<br /><br />Windsor -DATE: Friday, December 11, 2009TIME: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm (lunch is provided)LOCATION: Holiday Inn Select Windsor1855 Huron Church RoadWindsor, ON N9C 2L6RSVP by December 4:<br /><br />Cornwall -DATE: Tuesday, December 15, 2009TIME: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm (lunch is provided)LOCATION: Ramada Hotel & Conference CentreAdirondack Room, 805 Brookdale AvenueCornwall, ON K6J 4P3RSVP by December 4:The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-23061679446791881502009-11-10T10:29:00.001-08:002009-11-10T10:29:30.619-08:00Environmental Tourism starts with you.How can you make a difference you ask? You can start be asking when you call to book a hotel room whether they have a recycling program. You can take that further by asking if they have an environmental program before you make a reservation. <br />Small steps. You may find that some hotels do not have such a program. But I invite you to consider what would happen if hotels, inns, B&B’s, resorts got these sorts of questions from 85% of the people who called to book a room. <br />These businesses would know that it was on the minds of their clients and would be far more likely to take action. <br />Small steps lead to giant leaps. Take that small step next time you travel.The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-9373203258659805522009-09-19T10:37:00.000-07:002009-09-19T10:44:56.470-07:00Career Opportunity for an Outdoor Educator/CoordinatorPosition Task: Coordinate the delivery of outdoor, environmental and experiential education programs at Haliburton Forest.<div><br /></div><div>Responsibilities:</div><div><ul><li>development and planning of programs for client groups;</li><li>promoting and marketing of programs and activities;</li><li>administration of group bookings;</li><li>scheduling of delivery staff and groups;</li><li>coordination of special events;</li><li>ensure a safe environment for clients;</li><li>facilitate, teach and lead group activities and programs as needed;</li></ul><div>Selection Criteria:</div><div><br /></div><div><ul><li>creative, energetic and able to participate fully in active programs;</li><li>well developed communication, presentation and administrative skills to effectively market and support Haliburton Forest's programs and services;</li><li>a broad base of experience teaching and leading outdoor and group focused activities;</li><li>demonstrated supervisory experience;</li><li>ability to provide quality customer service working with groups, general public and Haliburton Forest staff;</li><li>ability to work independently in a dynamic environment;</li></ul><div>Qualifications:</div><div><br /></div><div><ul><li>completed an undergraduate University Degree or College diploma with related field experience;</li><li>current first aid and CPR certificates;</li><li>computer literacy-Microsoft office</li><li>Second language is an asset.</li></ul><div>Please send letter and resume to: </div><div>Human Resources</div><div>Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve Ltd.</div><div>1095 Redkenn Road, Haliburton, Ontario, K0M 1S0</div><div>Email: hr@haliburtonforest.com</div><div>www.haliburtonforest.com</div><div><br /></div><div>Closing Date: September 25, 2009</div><div><br /></div><div>Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve Ltd. The "Forest" or "Wildlife" as it is known locally, represents the largest private land holding in Central Ontario. Over 60,000 acres of forests, lakes, streams and wildlife form the back drop for this world renowned property. Operating as a multi-use facility, the Forest has gained international recognition for its resource management policies and practices. With the natural beauty of the forests and lakes set to last in perpetuity, Haliburton Forest has created a wide range of attractions and activities permitting visitors to enjoy this unique wilderness. Entwined throughout the operation is an extensive and very unique outdoor, environmental and experiential education program. </div><div><br /></div><div>Haliburton Forest is dedicated to provide quality education programs to both youth and adults in a variety of settings.</div></div></div></div>The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-90279875499981798372009-09-13T16:44:00.000-07:002009-09-13T16:47:44.068-07:00Dining with the StarsThe Nolalu Eco Centre's last workshop for this year is coming up soon: on september 26th they will be offering the opportunity to be "Dining with the Stars". As one of their more popular workshops sells out fast, and no wonder: it includes a brief house tour of North Ontario's Eco-friendliest house, after which astronomer Randy McAllister will take us through deep space, using high-definition slides and videos projected on a big screen. Drinks and refreshments will be provided.<div><br /></div><div>This is followed by an informal dinner & dessert, and an opportunity to chat with Randy and fellow workshop participants. </div><div><br /></div><div>After dinner participants visit the Thunder Bay observatory, North America's second-largest privately owned observatory. Participants will see and experience first hand the housing and equipment involved with astronomy and photographing deep space objects. Depending on the sky conditions they'll also have the opportunity to do some serious star gazing.</div><div><br /></div><div>For more information please visit http://www.nolaluecocentre.org or email info@nolaluecocentre.org</div><div>nolaluecocentre.blogspot.com</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-32643082281434533802009-09-11T10:34:00.000-07:002009-09-11T10:38:42.788-07:00TIES Travel Green Guide 2009The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) has just released their Travel Green Guide 2009. It can be viewed online and is also available for download. This guide is now available for free. Ecotourism operators can now join TIES as a professional level member and be listed in the guide as a prefered Travel Green choice. You can also learn more about the guide and spread the word...with an option to embed the Guide in your blog, send to your facebook friends,or share through your website. <div><br /></div><div>For more information on the Travel Green Guide 2009 go to www.ecotourism.org/TravelGreenGuide</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-69183843536098880602009-09-07T15:32:00.000-07:002009-09-07T15:36:41.777-07:00Northern Ontario Eco-Heroes Announced!The Nolalu Eco Centre was pleased to announce the winners for North Ontario's first Eco Hero Contest. The contest received nominations from all across Northern Ontario for a large variety of environmental initiatives. The contest, in its first year of running, receiving a wide range of media impressions and many nominations were sent in. Three winners have been selected. You can find out more about the Eco Hero Contest and about this years winners by visiting http://www.nolaluecocentre.org or checking out the Nolalu Eco Centre blog at http://nolaluecocentre.blogspot.com<div><br /></div><div><br /></div>The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-62183007488919743552009-09-03T13:52:00.001-07:002009-09-03T13:55:57.165-07:009th Annual Lakeland ConferenceThe 9th Annual Lakeland Conference will be taking place Saturday, September 19th. The conference will be held this year at the Fleming College Haliburton Campus from 8:30-3:30 pm. Fees for the conference are $20.00 per individual and $35.00 per couple. This fee includes coffee and lunch.<div><br /></div><div>The conference is an opportunity for shoreline property owners to come together to learn about the common environmental issues facing their lakes with local experts and exhibitors specializing in relevant services and information. This year will take a closer look at:</div><div><br /></div><div>-stewardship efforts of lake communities</div><div>-lake algal blooms</div><div>-pruning shoreline trees for optimum views</div><div>-the successes of community-based fish hatcheries</div><div>-forensic meteorology</div><div>and more...</div><div><br /></div><div>Pre-registration for the conference is required. For more information about the conference or to register please visit: <a href="http://www.lakeland.greenup.on.ca/events.html">http://www.lakeland.greenup.on.ca/events.html</a></div><div><br /></div>The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-53733656360655797972009-09-03T05:37:00.000-07:002009-09-03T05:40:21.851-07:00Hunt for Travel Industry's Best Social-Media-As-Marketing EffortsThe Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC) is looking for your help in finding some of the examples of social media used to market Canadian tourism experiences. This includes blogs, video, ebsites, twitter, facebook, bebo...and more. They aim to highlight great examples of using social media for marketing in the travel industry, and how it can brilliantly capture the essence of Canada's tourism brand, "Canada. Keep exploring".<div><br /></div><div>You can check our some examples by visiting http://mediacentre.canada.travel/content/ctc_news/real-banff-social-media or you can send your suggestions to the CTC by emailing ctnews@ctc-cct.ca<br /><br /></div>The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-87954993710698184192009-08-09T06:14:00.000-07:002009-08-09T06:18:25.181-07:00Harvesting the Wind in Northern OntarioThe Nolalu Eco Centre will be organizing anothe workshop unique for Northern Ontario: Harvesting the Wind. Wind power is the most established and most cost-effective way to generate power, and this workshop will show you why and how. <div><br /></div><div>Learn About Wind Power</div><div><br /></div><div>Noticed we've been getting more wind? The Nolalu Eco Centre will be hosting a Wind Workshop for those who have always wanted to learn more about generating their own wind power. Wind is a renewable energy alternative that might be a possible option for your property. </div><div><br /></div><div>The Wind Workshop will cover how wind power works and what it can do for us. We'll have a look at Nolalu Eco Centre's own 100 ft tall 1.3 Kw wind tower and the different components that are involved. You'll also learn about selling power back into the grid and what that all means.</div><div><br /></div><div>The workshop will be held Saturday August 15 from 10:00 am till aprox. 4:00 p.m at Nolalu Eco Centre.</div><div><br /></div><div>Admission is $85.00 and includes lunch, refreshments and snacks. Discounts for groups of 2 and up. </div><div><br /></div><div>For more information visit the Eco Centre's website at www.NolaluEcoCentre.org, or contact the centre at info@NolaluEcoCentre.org or call (807) 474-3968</div>The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-91135592174424434062009-06-22T07:23:00.000-07:002009-06-22T07:27:29.292-07:00Our Forests-See The Future!Sudbury Forest Management Planning (FMP) for the next 10 years is currently underway. The Sudbury Forest Local Citizen's Committee invites you to attend an Open House in July. <br /><br />Forests are many things to many people, a place to work and a place to play. The open houses show where logging is expected to occur between 2010 and 2020. New roads are an important part of the FMP. You can see where they are proposed. Public comments are encouraged at this time.<br /><br />Open House Dates:<br /><ul><li>July 14, 3 pm to 8 pm and July 15, 9 am to 1 pm at the Howard Johnson Hotel 50 Brady St. Sudbury, On</li><li>St. Charles, July 16, 3 to 8 pm, St. Charles Community Centre.</li></ul><p>You will have the opportunity to review and comment on:</p><ul><li>proposed areas identified for harvest, renewal and tending operations;</li><li>proposed road locations and conditions for the first five-year term;</li><li>preferred areas of operations for the second five-year terms;</li><li>proposed corridors for new primary and branch roads for the ten-year term;</li><li>a proposal to amend specific management direction for Sturgeon River Provincial Park in the 2007 Temagami Area Park Management Plan</li></ul><p>for more information visit <a href="http://www.sudburyforest.com/">www.sudburyforest.com</a></p><p> </p>The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5216582329867177385.post-31902749208990956832009-06-16T09:40:00.000-07:002009-06-16T09:43:50.257-07:00Lecture Series: Ecotourism and the G8The Muskoka Watershed Council and the Muskoka Heritage Foundation are holding a lecture series on issues important to watershed health. The fourth lecture, entitled Ecotourism and the G8, is scheduled for Thursday June 18 at 7 pm at the Algonquin Theatre in Huntsville. The lecture will provide an overview of environmental actions undertaken by G8 leaders in the past, spotlight work done on ecotourism around the world and how we can apply that knowledge to Muskoka/Haliburton. <br /><br />There will be three speakers and an opportunity to ask questions. The speakers include Ella Kokotsis who is the Director of Research for the G8 Research Group at the University of Toronto; Paul Eagles, professor in ecotourism at the University of Waterloo; and Robin Tapley, a local ecotourism operator.The Ontario Ecotourism Societyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11631196438372904575noreply@blogger.com0