Entry 54: Climbing, Community, and Economic Impact: Highlights from the 2023 Climbing Advocacy Conference in Bentonville

I am behind a bit on a few posts, my apologies. In November I was asked to present at the 2023 Climbing Advocacy Conference in Bentonville, Arkansas.

The Climbing Advocacy Conference in Bentonville, Arkansas (November 2023), brought together passionate climbers and advocates for a few days of knowledge-sharing and collaborative discussions. As a presenter at the conference, my focus was on unraveling the economic impact of climbing in Newton County, Arkansas (more below). My time with climbers (from around the country) was an educational and inspiring time shared – as we dove into insightful sessions on access to public land and sustainable climbing practices.

The Economic Impact of Climbing in Newton County: My presentation centered on the economic impact of climbing in Newton County, Arkansas. I want to give a shout out to my partner on this project, Dr. James Maples. Also, a big thank you to many others, especially the Arkansas Climbers Coalition, Dennis Nelms of Climb Solutions LLC, the Access Fund, Horseshoe Canyon Ranch, and many others who supported the project and attended the session. Climbing has evolved beyond just a recreational activity; it has become a key player in the local economy. From gear shops and guiding services to hospitality and local businesses, climbing has a far-reaching impact. I shared a few charts and statistics (and real-world examples), demonstrating how climbing contributes to job creation, tourism, and overall community development.

Sessions on Access to Public Land: One of the conference highlights was the array of sessions dedicated to addressing access to public land. The climbing community understands the significance of preserving and securing access to climbing areas, and the conference provided a platform to discuss current challenges and solutions. Attendees engaged in lively conversations about collaborating with land managers, navigating regulatory hurdles, and advocating for policies that support responsible access.

Exploring Sustainable Climbing Practices: Sustainability emerged as a key theme throughout the conference, reflecting the climbing community's commitment to preserving the natural environment. Sessions focused on Leave No Trace principles, minimizing the environmental footprint of climbing areas, and fostering a culture of responsible outdoor recreation. The conference fostered a sense of shared responsibility, encouraging climbers to adopt practices that ensure the longevity of the landscapes they cherish.

Networking and Community Building: Beyond the formal sessions, the conference provided ample opportunities for networking and community building. Connecting with like-minded individuals, organizations, and industry professionals proved invaluable. Conversations extended beyond the conference walls, creating a sense of unity and purpose among attendees. The collective passion for climbing advocacy forged new alliances and strengthened existing partnerships, laying the groundwork for future collaborations.

A big shoutout to Access Fund and the City of Bentonville, Arkansas for hosting the conference and facilitated a great slate of presentations and sessions. #bentonvillearkansas #bentonville #climbing #climbers #arkansas #arkansastourism #education #economicimpact #accessfund #ARCC

Entry 126: A Rainy Night, Birds at Dawn, and the Cozy Joy of Glamping at Ozark RV Park

If you’ve been thinking about trying glamping or need a peaceful base to explore Mountain View, Arkansas, let me share a place you’ll want to add to your list: Ozark RV Park and Cabins. Ozark RV Park & Cabins Call: 870-200-9090 The Glamping Tent I recently stayed in one of their glamping tents, and it was such a fun, comfortable experience. The tent is spacious, set up on a platform with a real bed (on a frame), crisp linens, a fan, air conditioning (yes, you get AC in a tent!), and a Keurig for that first warm cup of coffee in the morning. During my stay, it rained gently, and there is something incredible about falling asleep to the sound of rain on canvas while staying warm and cozy in bed. In the morning, I woke up to the sound of birds and crisp air, peeking outside to a misty, peaceful campground that felt like a breath of fresh air. The Big Park Sign & Rooster The bathhouse on-site deserves a shout-out. It has the nostalgic feel of a summer camp bathhouse but is immacul...

Entry 85: A Quirky Stop in Austin, MN: Exploring the Spam Museum and More

If you’re into quirky attractions and unexpected fun, the Spam Museum in Austin, Minnesota is a must-see. Located at 101 3rd Ave NE , this one-of-a-kind destination has been drawing curious travelers and Spam fans since it opened in 1991. After a major expansion and relocation in 2016, the museum now offers an even more immersive and entertaining experience. A Taste of History Spam was first introduced in 1937 by Hormel Foods , and the museum walks you through how this humble canned meat became a global sensation. It played a major role during World War II , feeding troops across the globe and becoming a beloved staple in households everywhere. Inside the museum, you’ll find a blend of history, pop culture, and international flair . Learn how Spam became a hit in countries like South Korea, the Philippines, and Hawaii. You'll also get a glimpse of the role Spam played in post-war culture and its place in today’s culinary world. Interactive Exhibits and More The Spam Museum is...

Entry 131: From Bonsai to Blooms: A Walk Through Portland’s Gardens

A Stroll Through the Portland Japanese Garden On a quiet morning in downtown Portland, a buddy and I decided to walk from our hotel to the Portland Japanese Garden. The route wound through the city and into Washington Park, and while it was uphill in spots, it was not bad at all. By the time we reached the entrance, we felt like we had already eased into the slower pace the garden promises. Even before I took ten steps inside, the city noise seemed to fade. The air felt cooler and fresher, like the garden had its own climate set apart from the bustle just outside its walls. The path curved gently ahead, leading us past moss-covered stones and neatly raked gravel beds. A small stream gurgled quietly under a wooden footbridge, the sound blending with the soft rustle of leaves overhead. Every turn revealed a new scene, a carefully placed lantern, a cluster of maple trees, or a pond where koi fish drifted lazily through the water. We followed the path uphill to a wide view of the city. Th...

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