Extension - Sustainable Land Use
Coastal Economics and Tourism

Many communities, including Erie, have endured a decline in their economic base and are evaluating options for revitalizing depressed economies. One way to reverse negative economic trends is to build on the assets of a community and identify potential industry clusters and niches for cultivation. Erie has had a long history of water-based industrial and commercial employment, not the least of which involves tourism. A renewed focus on water-resource-related projects/programs will assist in Erie's efforts to capitalize on one of its key strengths.

Pennsylvania Sea Grant staff is working to improve the economic sustainability of Pennsylvania's coastal communities through the promotion of Pennsylvania's fisheries (see steelhead creel and economic survey), Lake Erie's underwater preserve (see Project STEAR), viticulture industry along Lake Erie's southern shoreline, public access improvements, Pennsylvania's Seaway Trail National Scenic Byway, urban core revitalization efforts, and water resource management. For more information, contact Dave Skellie.