Sheena PateCrown of the Continent Geotourism Council

September 16, 2015Roundtable on the Crown of the Continent Conference

Organization of Presentation

• Greetings from Crown Traverse Crew• What is the Crown of the Continent?• Who is the Geotourism Council?• Why partner with Geotourism Council?• Follow Traverse• Q & A

Crown Traverse

What is the Crown of the Continent?

• One of the world’s most diverse temperate ecosystems

• Ecological Crossroads• 16,000 square miles– 18 million acres (7.3 million

hectares)

• Transboundary tribal heritage• First International Peace Park• Two World Heritage Sites• A Destination without Borders

Montana

Alberta

British Columbia

Crown of the Continent Geotourism Council

• Council formed 2007– Alberta, British Columbia, & Montana– Tourism, Conservation, & Economic Development– 2008 Partnered w/ NG

Community

Environment Business

3 Overarching Goals

• Geotourism Business Development– Establish destination that provides high quality visitor ‐

experiences through sustainable tourism activities and operations.

• Stewardship– Provide visitors and residents opportunities to preserve and

celebrate the environment, culture and history.

• Communication and Education– Expand networks, promote regional pride, and increase

public awareness.

Geotourism

• “Tourism that sustains or enhances the geographical character of a place- its environment, heritage, aesthetics, culture, and well being of its residents”

Why Partner w/ Geotourism Council?

• Intact Ecosystem• Rich culture and heritage• Unique communities• Experiences that cannot be had anywhere else in the

world

Who are Geotravelers?

• 55 million geotravelers in the U.S.• Millions more worldwide• Well educated• Environmentally aware• Socially conscious/civic engagement• Immerse themselves in different

cultures• Lifelong Learning• Frequent & Passionate Travelers• Travel defines who they are

Crown Tools

#CROWNTRAVERSE

Social Media Partners

Sheena Pate(406) 407-0421

sheena@crownofthecontinent.net