Research Reports
Filtering by Tags: regional place-based branding Clear All
2023
Community and Economic Impact of the Pennsylvania Wilds
August 11, 2023 | Community and Economic Development
The Pennsylvania Wilds is a place-based brand and destination region in north central Pennsylvania covering 13 entirely rural counties. It is entering its third decade since its inception as an official tourism region and conservation landscape. This comprehensive mixed-methods research study conducted in 2022 indicates that this region is an effective place-based tourism brand. Stakeholder groups of visitors, businesses, and residents recognize the PA Wilds brand attributes of environmental stewardship and economic development. Resident and business stakeholders indicated pride in belonging to the region. These overall positive impacts of the brand indicate that brand management in the PA Wilds is well executed. With the policy actions outlined in this report, the rural residents of this region can enjoy further positive economic and community dividends from the state's initial investment in this regional strategy.
Executive Summary
Tags: economic development , #community development , rural tourism , outdoor recreation , regional place-based branding
Introducing the Center's new journal, Rural Policy: The Research Bulletin of the Center for Rural Pennsylvania.