The Tourism Coalition of South Dakota (TCSD) is conducting a statewide survey of hunting and fishing guides, outfitters, lodges, hunting preserves, and other outdoor recreation businesses to better understand the industry’s economic impact, workforce, operations, and future needs.
South Dakota’s hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation industry is a cornerstone of the state’s tourism economy, attracting visitors from across the country while supporting businesses, jobs, and communities statewide. The survey is designed to collect factual, cumulative data that will help educate legislators, policymakers, and stakeholders about the importance of this sector and the role it plays in South Dakota’s economy.
Over the past several legislative sessions, proposals have been introduced that would have created new regulations, reporting requirements, or additional oversight for professional guides and outfitters. The Tourism Coalition believes it is important to gather direct input from those working in the industry to better understand what is working well, the challenges businesses face, and how any future policy discussions can be informed by the experiences of those most directly affected.
“We want to ensure the voices of guides, outfitters, lodges, hunting preserves, and outdoor recreation businesses are represented by real data,” said Carmen Schramm, Executive Director of the Tourism Coalition of South Dakota. “This information will help us better advocate for the industry while providing legislators and decision-makers with a clearer understanding of its economic contributions and operational realities.”
The survey takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes to complete, and businesses are encouraged to submit one response per operation.
Survey Link:
https://form.jotform.com/261954288208062
TCSD also encourages participants to share the survey with other hunting and fishing guides, outfitters, lodges, hunting preserves, and outdoor recreation businesses throughout South Dakota. Broad participation will help ensure the results accurately reflect the industry and strengthen its collective voice.
Individual responses will remain confidential. Survey information will be used only in aggregate form to help educate legislators, policymakers, agencies, and industry partners. Individual business information will not be publicly disclosed, and responses will only be accessible to survey administrators and the Coalition’s lobbyist for validation and legislative advocacy purposes.
About the Tourism Coalition of South Dakota
The Tourism Coalition of South Dakota is the statewide advocate for South Dakota’s visitor industry. Representing businesses and organizations across the state, the Coalition works to protect and strengthen tourism through legislative advocacy, education, collaboration, and policies that support economic growth and the long-term success of South Dakota’s tourism economy.
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