The following information was submitted to Montana 1st News is hopes of raising awareness concerning the tourism industry in general and how it will and does affect the Thompson Falls area. A Zoom meeting took place today to discuss these matters.
IMPORTANT! This is about the tourism grant that SCCD is trying to get for the City of Thompson Falls.
*Tourism is a last ditch poverty income for a ‘community’ when all traditional industry has been eradicated – Like ‘natives’ selling their ‘culture’ and posing for photos for pennies.
*Wealth flows out of and away from local areas, into corporate coffers; a healthy local economy circulates $(Money) hand to hand around the community (best x6) before it exits.
*Tourists spend money on fuel and lodging and food that generally flows to corporate (not local tills).
*Tourism only provides short term, low wage, no benefit, no security jobs. Tourism invites crime; theft and prostitution putting strain on local law enforcement which costs- $$$ and first responders. Jobs often go to seasonal workers that may migrate in and then leave.
*Tourists bring LITTER, they have no interest in seeing to the upkeep of the pristine country landscape they come to enjoy, seeking only for their personal pleasurable visit – a ‘pack it in – pack it out’ mentality can not be counted on. Tourists unfamiliar with terrain and wildlife could harm themselves, trails, plants/waterways, and wildlife.
*Tourists are FICKLE – there is no guarantee that they will plan to visit or return; weather, whim, and popular destination trends are not dependable.-Kristen Wing
