Anna Sayers, the Secretary of Tourism for the state of Wisconsin, provided some valuable insights into the tourism market during her presentation at the Wisconsin Association of Campground Owners’ annual conference in Stevens Point, Wis., on Thursday (March 12).
She highlighted that, according to the 2024 economic statistics just released, tourism in Wisconsin generated $25.8 billion, supported 114.4 million visits, and created over 182,000 jobs.
“Bipartisan support at the state house is helping to invest in tourism,” she highlighted. “It is important that we think of this not as an expenditure, but as an investment.”
That investment has moved Wisconsin from 27th to 23rd nationally in visitor spending, with outdoor recreation generating $12 billion annually.
Eric Knight, the owner of Knight Public Affairs, which is WACO’s lobbyist, noted that the growth of the outdoor recreation economy in Wisconsin has also helped advance efforts at the statehouse, with numerous bills passed and debated during the recent legislative session.
One key bill that was passed focused on criminal trespassing and provided penalties for criminal trespassing at campgrounds. Another bill addressed property tax issues affecting campers’ personal property. That bill is awaiting the governor’s signature.
Other key legislative highlights included a bill to exempt farmers from campground licensing, a bill to clarify service animal laws, and an exemption for jumping pillows in an amusement ride bill.
Throughout the rest of the day, attendees took in educational sessions, while vendors prepared for WACO’s trade show, which opens Friday.
On Thursday, WACO hosted its PAC auction, which helps support its legislative efforts.
Today, WACO is hosting additional educational sessions and several young professional events. WACO’s trade show will fill the rest of the day, running from 1-6 p.m. The trade show sold out this year and features over 190 booths.
Daniel Shaffer, a mentalist and magician, will entertain attendees with a unique act this evening.
There is always a lot to keep track of, and App My Community has built a conference app that helps attendees navigate all the events and activities planned for the conference.
With the conference app, attendees can:
- View the full schedule of sessions and events
- Favorite sessions and receive reminders before they start
- Access the tradeshow floor map
- Browse the list of exhibitors and speakers
- Receive important conference updates through push notifications
To learn more and register as a park owner, click here.
To read the event’s full agenda, click here.
