The Partial Observer by Cass Harrington
Water Trail Will Drive Tourism
Tourism leaders across south-central New York are announcing the name of a new water trail being developed to attract visitors to eight counties along the Chemung and Susquehanna rivers.
The New York Susquehanna Basin Water Trail is a conceptual trail, stretching 190 miles from Cooperstown to Corning. While encouraging healthy and responsible recreation, the new project seeks to spur environmental stewardship and economic growth along the riverfront and nearby communities.
According to recent tourism data:
- In 2022, recreation was a $7.5 million industry in New York. (Tourism Economics)
- Over the past 12 months, the average visitor to Otsego County spent $149.00 on outdoor recreation. In Steuben County, that number was $248.00, a 62 percent increase over 2022. (Zartico)
- Central New York and the Finger Lakes saw an average increase of 27 percent in traveler spending in 2022, compared to 2021. (Tourism Economics)
The landing page for the trail can be found at: www.paddlethe607.com. It is being developed into a full website with paddling itineraries, and information about access points and amenities as well as maps to guide visitors along the river. You can sign up for e-mail updates at the site.