Studies/Études : Resort-induced Changes in Small Mountain Communities in British Columbia

Source: Mountain Research and Development.
"The provincial government of British Columbia (BC) has proactively pursued resort development opportunities in its interior towns. Traditionally dependent on extractive industries such as forestry and mining, many interior mountain communities in BC are increasingly looking toward tourism and resort-induced economic opportunities."

Fueled by the movement of amenity seekers, primarily from urban areas, resort development in mountain communities has triggered several internal and external pressures. This exploratory study examines growth trends in the mountain resort industry in 5 communities in BC: Fernie, Golden, Kimberley, Rossland, and Revelstoke. The analysis is based on secondary data, followed by field visits during the months of June and July 2006, which included 30 qualitative interviews with the mayors, planners, residents, and other stakeholders in the tourism and resort sectors. Research results indicate a significant growth in resort-induced development, primarily to attract second home owners and seasonal tourists.

Read full article. Sanjay K. Nepal and Tazim B. Jamal. Resort-induced Changes in Small Mountain Communities in British Columbia, Canada. Mountain Research and Development 2011 31 (2), 89-101.

WWW: www.bioone.org/toc/mred/31/2