The word "ecotourism" has become an increasingly popular word that describes a venture combining the thrill of experiencing nature while creating far less of an environmental impact than that created by conventional forms of tourism; such as skiing, off-road atv's, or snowmobiling. Ziplines would offer a different perspective and experience within the VC's education and conservation message. A relatively low start-up cost and swift installation would provide the preserve with a daily windfall of several thousand dollars, while providing public thrill-seekers the long-awaited activity of zipping through the treetop canopy with exhilarating smoothness. Interestingly, while popular tourist destinations internationally offer ziplines, there are proportionately few in the U.S., and very few in the New Mexico area. As such there is little competition. In the majority of recreational areas where ziplines have been installed, the number of visitors has increased, as has the revenue. A VCNP Zipline venture would qualify for a sizeable federal grant currently designated for alternative transportation in public places, and the trust has already received grant funding to study methods of alternative transportation.
Zip-line Ecotourism Venture
Benefits to the VCNP & the general public:
• a zip-line would offer a new perspective and experience within the VC's education/conservation message
• creates far less of an environmental impact than conventional forms of tourism; such as off-road atv's & 4-wheel-drives
• relatively low start-up cost and swift installation would likely provide the preserve with a daily windfall of several thousand dollars
• in the majority of zip-lined recreational areas, the number of visitors has increased, as has revenue
• with few ziplines in the U.S., and very few in New Mexico, there is little competition
• provides thrill-seekers the exhilarating activity of zipping through the treetop canopy with invigorating momentum
• employment for locals
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