To the editor:

The Indiana Tourism Association represents over 80 destinations across the state, and we advocate for the value that tourism brings to Indiana. We know visitors spend over $11.5 billion a year, and it is our job to continue to promote and safeguard the many assets we have in the state. This includes our natural assets such as creeks, lakes, rivers, caves and forests.

It saddens us to hear about assets, such as Yellowwood State Forest, that are in danger. Not only can this hinder local tourism efforts, but can also affect statewide economic impact numbers. We encourage decision-makers to heed recommendations from Visit Bloomington and the Brown County Convention and Visitors Bureau to respect our natural resources, as they are vital to many communities’ economic development from tourism.

In addition, the Indiana Tourism Association asks for a balance between timber production and wilderness recreation in Indiana’s state forests.

Sincerely,

Carrie Lambert, executive director, Indiana Tourism Association

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