West Virginia tourism is still up and outdoor activities like trail riding, camping and Whitewater rafting were doing well, unlike traditional theme parks as they were more economically affordable for families. Permit sales increased a dramatic and unexpected 20 percent last year.
The five year Marketing Plan for the Hatfield-McCoy Regional Recreation Authority kicked off with a bang according to members of the marketing committee. Mike Pinkerton said year one of the plan is going smoothly.
"We are going full steam ahead," Pinkerton said at a recent board meeting, noting there had been some minor changes in the ancillary services manual.
Pinkerton told Hatfield-McCoy board members that the new Boone retail center is a beautiful project the board can be proud of.
One guest spoke about the ATV facilities at Ashland noting business was up 17 percent this year and that the Ashland Campground had drawn guests from 47 different countries. Most guests stayed two and a half nights and spent on average $250 each which was a huge economic boost. Reservations for 2009 are up as well. Not bad considering that gas was $4 a gallon during much of 2008.
In other Hatfield-McCoy news:
•The Board accepted the resignation of longtime member Delegate Richard Browning, who will be taking a position in the WV senate.
"Richard has been a faithful board member and he did a lot to speed up Hatfield-McCoy's progress," said Board President Art Kirkendoll.
• The Authority accepted the resignation of Chief Ranger W.S. "Steve" Simpkins.
• Executive Director Jeff Lusk said the RTF Grant for an equestrian trail in Mercer County and for trails and trailheads in Lincoln County had been approved and that the HMRRA had put up it's 20 percent for matching funds.
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