JACKSON, Wyo. — The University of Wyoming has partnered with the Jackson Hole Travel and Tourism Board (JHTTB) to conduct a Teton County Resident Sentiment Towards Tourism Survey. This scientifically designed survey is currently being distributed to a random sample of Teton County residents to gather valuable insights on tourism and visitor management.

Building on the findings of the 2022 sentiment survey, this year’s study takes a more targeted approach through randomized mail distribution to mailing addresses in Teton County, Wyoming, to ensure a diverse and representative range of perspectives. The data collected will help the JHTTB better understand how residents feel about tourism and inform strategies for destination management and marketing going forward.

“Residents are not just community members,” said Crista Valentino, executive director of the Jackson Hole Travel and Tourism Board. “They are also business owners, employees and stewards of our public lands. The insights they provide from these different perspectives ensures that our strategy is effective at driving visitation while mitigating negative impacts felt across the community. This survey is an important step in balancing the needs of our community and the benefits of tourism.”

Dr. Daniel McCoy, Director of the Jay Kemmerer WORTH Institute at the University of Wyoming and the study’s lead author, emphasized the importance of broad participation. “It is essential that we hear from a diverse cross-section of Teton County residents,” said McCoy. “We encourage everyone who receives the survey to complete it, as their input directly impacts future tourism management decisions.”

Residents that were randomly selected for participation will receive a survey by mail, which they can complete and return via a prepaid envelope or access online using a unique code. Responses are confidential and will play a key role in shaping future tourism strategies in Teton County.

For more information or questions about the survey, please contact Dr. Daniel McCoy at dan.mccoy@uwyo.edu.