What is the OSG Extension Sustainable Tourism & Outdoor Recreation (STOR) Program?
The STOR program focuses its efforts on supporting communities and businesses through applied research, training, and advising, often at minimal or no cost. This program collaborates with various stakeholders, including:
- Visitor bureaus
- Tour operators
- Guides
- Governmental agencies
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Here are a few examples of resources that the STOR Program offers online:
- GORP Guide Training
- Practical Customer Service Training
- Case Studies of Innovative and Promising Practices in Sustainable Tourism
- Trail User Survey Report on Recreation Needs of Mountain Bikers at Whiskey Run Trails in Bandon, Oregon
By focusing on sustainable tourism, the program aligns with the definition set forth by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), which considers the current and future economic, social, and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment, and host communities. This program is part of both Oregon Sea Grant and OSU Extension.
What is Oregon Sea Grant?
Oregon Sea Grant (OSG), based at Oregon State University, is part of a nationwide network of 34 university-based programs that facilitate connections between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and local communities.
With a core focus on research, outreach, and education, OSG’s goal is to enhance the understanding, conservation, and sustainable utilization of marine and coastal resources. OSG’s work spans various areas, such as coastal hazards, invasive species, and sustainable coastal tourism. OSG also manages the Hatfield Visitor Center, which is part of the larger Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport, OR.
What is OSU Extension Service?
The OSU Extension Service is a statewide public service program through OSU that provides educational outreach to all 36 counties in Oregon. The Extension Service is a national program supported by the US Department of Agriculture, that is a component of each state’s land grant public university. Extension offices are located in each county in the country. Its primary focus includes promoting healthy communities and economies, preserving natural ecosystems, and supporting sustainable agriculture, among other initiatives. The youth leadership 4-H Program is one of the Extension system’s best known programs.
The core mission of OSU Extension is to strengthen Oregon’s communities with research-based knowledge. OSU Extension is broken down into multiple program areas, all of which share common values such as community-based relationships, accountability, credibility, diversity, partnerships, and responsiveness. OSG is one of OSU Extension’s program areas.
