Issue link: http://www.insightdigital.biz/i/85110
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INSIGHT ON By MaryBeth Matzek Tourist-powered growth L the facts: The community, which surrounds the deepest inland lake in Wisconsin, is all about tourism. "We've always called ourselves a oni Meiborg, executive director of the Green Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, doesn't shy away from tourist town," she says. "For at least six months of the year, our community depends on tourists." In 2011, those visitors helped many lakes, golf courses and overall quiet lifestyle, Meiborg says. Most visitors come from Chicago's northern suburbs, Madison and Milwaukee. increase the county's tourism spending by more than 13 percent for a total of $32.7 million. Neighboring Marquette County saw its tourism spending increase by 13.34 percent in 2011, up to $18.1 million. Waushara County, which lies just north of Green Lake County, saw its overall tourism spending fall by 2 percent in 2011, but those visitors still spent an estimated $59 million, according to the Wisconsin Department of Tourism. Tourists are attracted to the region's We have really seen an increase in the number of people coming from that area," she adds. "They have discovered or re-discovered what we have to offer. One of the area's draws to both "Madison is just over an hour away. " leisure and business travelers is the Heidel House Resort & Spa. The Green Lake resort was named the 2012 Best of MidAmerica award from Meetings "Madison is just over an hour away. We have really seen an increase in the number of people coming from that area. They have discovered or re-discovered what we have to offer." –Loni Meiborg, executive director of the Green Lake Area Chamber of Commerce www. insightonbusiness.com Tri-county region sees increase in visitor volume; lakes and golf courses a big draw Boating in Green Lake County is one of the popular activities that draws tourist dollars to the tri-county region. Manufacturing and agriculture also are key economic drivers in the area. Focus Magazine as a top destination for meetings. The full-service resort offers a luxurious spa and year-round recreational activities. "One of our greatest attractions for Kirk, marketing manager for the Heidel House. "This sets us apart for business events because Heidel House Resort is one of the only Wisconsin conference venues to offer lake views directly from meeting spaces. Our location, amenities and service result in successful meetings that increase inspiration and production in event attendees. " says Michelle Van year for the resort with an increase in both leisure and business travelers. Besides Heidel House, Van Kirk says 2012 has been a great " [continued] » October 2012 • INSIGHT | 45 guests is our location right on the shores of Big Green Lake, COURTESY OF THE GREEN LAKE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE