Customer Centered Development

Accommodations

The number of rooms available in rural areas is insufficient to sustain a significant nature tourism industry. The cost of constructing and managing new motels is prohibitive. To "ramp up" an eco-tourism region at a modest cost, communities often turn to bed and breakfasts to fill the need for seasonal lodging without significant expenditures. The availability of abandoned and unused farm houses which can be modified at moderate cost are often an untapped resource.

Food

The diversity of food offerings is inadequate and capacity is often limited. Seasonal closings of many food and lodging facilities present a special challenge. Expanding eco-tourism opportunities will only be successful if support facilities respond in kind. Incremental expansion that grows with growing demands can meet the needs of new travelers including:

-Adjusting hours of operation
-Providing breakfasts and box lunches
-Improving menu offerings including good health/lifestyle choices
-Improving/refurbishing indoor and outdoor appearances

Enhancements

The more experienced the eco tourist, the fewer the needs. Avid, active nature tourists can enjoy and interpret the region and its natural settings "as-is.". The addition of directional signage, stabilization of main roads and the development of checklists for birds, butterflies and plants will meet the needs of the most experienced nature tourists.
Casual nature tourists require more hands-on, active support including signage; detailed printed guides that interpret the plains ecology and historic artifacts like tip rings, cemeteries, sod houses, and other sites; web-enabled guides; trail maps; loaned or rented binoculars and other equipment; guided tours including walks and drives; and other activities.

The less experienced eco tourists are, the more they will require interpretation and hands-on services.

Memorabilia

An important component of eco-tourism is memorabilia. Authentic crafts and art rekindle memories of past adventures and nature encounters. The economic impact can be considerable, especially if goods are produced locally. Thematically linking locally produced arts and crafts to the natural resources being showcased is essential. Production and retail access to art, crafts, clothing, and value added agricultural products such as jams, jellies, and woodcraft are an important component to successful eco-tourism.