Reflecting on 50 Years of Working in the Tourism Economy: What It Gives, What It Takes, What Stewarding a Balance Looks Like

My introduction to the Taos Tourism Economy:

I was lucky enough to be born and raised in the magnificence of Northern New Mexico. The mountains, rivers and canyons of this beautiful state became my playground and sanctuary. I learned to hike, fish, climb, raft, ski, hunt and harvest firewood.

As I got older, I needed to find a way to make a living – to get a job. I worked as a carpenter, mason, delivery driver and even a stint at the Los Alamos National Laboratory. Then a new unexpected opportunity came my way: tourism. People not from here, and people from here without the know-how or proper equipment, were willing to pay good money to do the many adventures I enjoy, especially rafting and skiing. The very things that I did for fun, I could now do as a paid job.

Tourism, tourists, the tourism industry, everything that all entails, became a major part of my life.

Is tourism good or bad? My take on the costs and benefits:

Is tourism good or bad? The answer is, yes. Tourism is an important major economic force around the world. Many small communities, like Taos, are heavily dependent on tourist dollars to keep their community financially viable. But at what cost?

I have seen small communities overwhelmed by tourism. Locals experience increased traffic, limited parking, long lines for services & food, crowded sidewalks and less access to our favorite recreational haunts.

History has shown that traditional culture, art, crafts and cuisine can change to meet the expectations and fantasies of visitors. 

Tourism can change the nature of rural communities. Rents can rise to unaffordable levels. Cost of living can rise dramatically. The overcrowding that can happen stresses infrastructure and facilities. Large numbers of visitors can have a profound impact on quality of life and traditional cultures. 

As destination tourism becomes more popular, large heavily monied corporations move into the area. They are attracted by the possibility of profit or even more likely, tax write off potential. They pay lip service to local culture for a short time to get a foot in the door and then revert to their original financial motive.  I’m not saying they are all evil. What has been seen is that after some token efforts to the local population, they tend toward bringing in their own people, and don’t truly understand what Taos is all about. 

I have made a good living for over 50 years from tourism. In my early career when I wasn’t making money guiding raft trips or teaching people how to ski, fish or dance, I was being paid to build condos and houses for visitors to stay in. Many of these visitors, after enjoying the experiences I had to offer, fell in love with the Taos lifestyle, landscape and culture. They move here, investing in our community. 

The tourist economy creates numerous jobs, income and tax base. Monies generated by visitors play a major role in maintaining our roads, and support our schools, hospitals, and Fire & Police protection. It can have a very positive impact on local citizens’ quality and enjoyment of life.

Finding a Balance & Herding Cats:

Getting rid of tourism would be foolish and harmful. Letting tourism run amok would also be detrimental to our diverse community. Finding a balance is the task at hand. We, the citizens and leaders of Taos should exert some influence and control over the impact that vacationing visitors bring. 

If you know anything about Tourism, you can see what a monumental and almost impossible task that is. It will take a concerted effort by all forms of governance to even begin to have an effect. There are many issues that are beyond our control and influence. Weather and national and global economics being major factors. The term “Herding Cats” comes to mind.

I am happy to say that the Town and County of Taos, have invested in a major effort to attempt to influence tourism for a more favorable, positive outcome for a bigger cross section of our diverse community. Taos pueblo has also been a core collaborator towards the development of these efforts. This is no small task. It will take time, money and commitment by our leaders and citizens. 

The Destination Stewardship Network is a very valuable toolbox to get to the goal of respectful, sustainable and equitable tourism. With a networked approach, people from across sectors work together to take actionable steps towards maintaining long term integrity and livability of Taos, a deemed destination. The network is made up of a diverse range of personalities with deep connections to our Town and County. This networked approach brings  expertise, energy and tools from government agencies, tribal partners, NGOs, private businesses and citizens together to actually effect change All are concerned about the possible negative impact that unguided visitation could cause. And all are willing to spend the time, energy and resources towards actionable solutions.

Change is hard, but we have seen the herding of cats work! And a networked approach? It took us awhile to truly understand what this meant. But now - in less than a year, the DSN efforts have supported a change of perspective, and two pilot programs: The Cultural Events Fund and the SEED Program. Both aim to support inclusion and equity in the tourism landscape, by investing in local leaders who’s work uplifts under-represented voices through local events and business. 

If you love our community, please help by becoming more aware - read the Taos Destination Stewardship Plan and follow along with Taos Mainstreet on social media – 

And – Stay curious. What are the costs of tourism in Taos? What are the benefits? And how might we pursue a better balance…a net benefit… for the place and the people who call Taos home?

It is important to stay informed and involved, and usually – Fun!