The number of tourists visiting the river increases during the summer months, which is reflected in other tourism businesses in Cherokee County and Tahlequah.
Information regarding marketing efforts to attract tourists and promote both Cherokee County and the City of Tahlequah was discussed at the July 11 tourism council meeting.
“[The marketing] “It seems like what you guys are doing is working and from what I’m seeing, everyone else is doing it as well,” said Austin Spears, owner of Arrowhead Resort and committee member, “We’ve seen participation increase by over 1,000 people.”
Beth Koenner, owner and innkeeper at Purdy Cabin Guest Retreat, said roadside trash has increased and that river outfitters need to be responsible for the trash generated by tourists on their buses and those who transport floats to drop-off sites.
While the tourist numbers are beneficial for local businesses, they are taking a toll on the river, Koenah said.
“I’m very happy that we’re successful and bringing in money for the county, but we’re killing the river,” Koenner said. “We love the river to death and we need to take a moment to think about what the future of the river is.”
Spears agreed, saying this seems to be a recent trend among tourists, where people don’t respect the area.
“All the things I’ve seen on my property this year, the things people have done, I don’t want to know about,” Spears said.
Marketing manager Alex McBride said “Oklahoma Outdoors,” a television special featuring Cherokee County that aired on Tulsa’s News 6, provided a big return on the money spent promoting the show. The show aired June 10 on Channel 6.
McBride said outdoor billboards and television and radio ads helped promote the event, with the Explore Cherokee County logo prominently featured in all of the producers’ advertising.
“We spent just under $10,000 on it and it’s given us more than $49,000 in value,” McBride said.
McBride said the tourism bureau is partnering with Diamond Head Resort to promote the Diamond Stone Music Festival.
The three-day concert is scheduled to take place at Diamond Head Resort from September 5 to 7. Headliners include Kaitlyn Butts, Chris Cagle, John Fullbright, Amber Watson and Friends, No Justice and King Cabbage Brass Band. Promotional materials list about 20 other acts.
Mayor Suzanne Myers praised the group’s efforts to boost tourism and bring revenue to the area.
“Your efforts do not go unnoticed, and while we may not be involved in the day-to-day operations, we will be there to support you in any way we can,” Myers said. “We know you are valuable to the success of this community.”
What’s next?
The next tourism council meeting is Aug. 8 at 8 a.m. at the Tahlequah Area Chamber of Commerce, 123 E. Delaware St.
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For more information about Diamond Stone Music Festival, visit diamondstonefestival.com/home
