Nine rural municipalities in south-central Saskatchewan have taken steps to prepare for a future after the coal industry.
Through an economic partnership called South Saskatchewan Ready (SSR), they have signed an agreement aimed at boosting tourism between the region and northeast Montana.
“Heightened tourism activities in the region fulfills one aspect of mitigating the negative economic (effects) of coal transition and will bolster new revenue sources for tourism operators and retail establishments in our respective regions,” managing director Sean Wallace said in a news release.
The deal with Montana’s Missouri River Country will have the parties develop products to increase visitors to both regions.
To start, that will include two travel packages, one with a three-day itinerary and the other lasting seven days. They will give visitors the chance to explore attractions, events and accommodations in both regions. Tourists can start the trip from either side of the border.
Itineraries for activities will be available in May on the SSR website.
“Our relationship with Northeast Montana is a historic one that spans more than 100 years. Families and farming have been intertwined for generations and many businesses on both sides of the international border conduct business daily,” SSR chair Sharon Adam said in a statement.
“It just makes sense for us to work together because of our combined interests, similarities and shared history. Next tourism season we are looking forward to welcoming our American friends to our region.”