Nebraska highlights Scottsbluff County's strengths in ecotourism and agritourism strategy

During the Scotts Bluff County Commissioners Meeting on April 7, 2025, discussions centered on enhancing tourism strategies that leverage the region's unique strengths. The meeting highlighted the importance of incorporating various forms of tourism, including leisure, eco, agritourism, and astrotourism, into the county's development plans. This approach aligns with Nebraska's broader tourism strategy, which focuses on promoting the state as a whole rather than individual counties.

Commissioners noted that Scotts Bluff County has been actively involved in research conducted by marketing firms and travel writers, which has helped identify the area's potential in attracting visitors. The conversation emphasized the significance of astrotourism, particularly in the Sandhills region, while also recognizing the county's capabilities in ecotourism and agritourism.

A key point of discussion was the need for measurable outcomes to assess the return on investment from these tourism initiatives. Questions arose regarding visitor numbers, particularly for ecotourism, with a reference to approximately 20,000 annual visitors to the Legacy of the Plains museum. While specific data on ecotourism was less clear, the presence of bird watchers and other visitors at locations like Wildcat Hills was acknowledged as part of the county's appeal.

The meeting underscored the potential for Scotts Bluff County to enhance its tourism offerings by promoting its natural beauty and unique experiences. As the county continues to develop its tourism strategy, the focus will remain on measuring visitor engagement and the economic impact of these initiatives. The discussions set the stage for future efforts to attract more visitors and capitalize on the region's distinctive characteristics.