Innovative Food Tourism Development Strategies for Sustainability on American Indian Reservations

Abstract

The goal of this project is to enhance the economic sustainability of agricultural production in Southwest Indian Country through food/agritourism enterprise and supply chain development. This strategy takes advantage of increasing traveler demand for local and heritage foods and activities and the need to diversify Southwest agriculture to increase its resiliency to climate change. Project objectives include assessing tourism behaviors and motivations, assessing the production and marketing needs of tribal food producers, and evaluating various models for incorporating food/agritourism into current operations. Project outcomes will increase business opportunities for tribal members and strengthen tribal economies while preserving traditional tribal customs and knowledge.