Ever wonder why it feels so great to be out in nature? Amanda Baker, Partner Marketing Manager with Visit North Carolina and oversees North Carolina’s Outdoor NC initiative, and Clark Lovelace, Executive Director of the Transylvania County Tourism Development Authority, share how the love for the outdoors makes us feel happy, inspired, and excited to explore more. And why it's important to to build awareness around responsible travel, destination stewardship, and sustainable tourism concepts.

Amanda explains how North Carolina has a strong commitment to protect and preserve the culture and natural resources of the state. With three flagship programs in place: Leave No Trace, Accessible Outdoors & Trail Town Designation, they have expanded their initiatives beyond responsible travel by providing educational workshops, along with a practical tool-kit, to advance stewardship activities and communications.

Clark shares how Transylvania County is recognized for their long-standing roll in sustainability by creating Transylvania Always and Leave It Betteras their key initiatives.

And with 250 waterfalls in Transylvania County, Clark relates how waterfall safety is a focus they share with land agencies, emergency personnel, and others.

The state and its partners are creating programs with local businesses, residents and visitors to help protect and preserve North Carolina’s outdoor spaces for the future.

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