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4. National Parks Wildfires area concern for national and state arks. A wildfire such as the 2000._.._.____ fire at Mesa Verde National Park could severely impact the local tourism economy. RECOMMENDED MITIGATION / RESPONSE: • Boat Ramp Accessability Colorado state parks have already lengthened boat ramps to accommodate lower water levels. They are hoping to have a 7 -10 day notification before boat ramps are out of the water to help them inform the public. • Colorado State Parks Fire Policy: Enforce fire restrictions set by county sheriffs. Most campfires in Colorado State Parks must be kept in a fire grill, which is usually considered an enclosed fire for purposes of fire restriction. • Public Outreach/Education Counteract negative publicity by reminding the public that they can enjoy Colorado parks even if water is low or fire restrictions are in place. Keep the public optimistic about tourism's viability during drought and heightened fire danger. Educate local tourism businesses /community so that they are able to provide accurate information or direct potential visitors to accurate information. • Local Communfty Mitigation and Response Plans Local communities who are dependent on state or national parks for tourism should be asked to plan for potential economic impacts. (In speaking to industry representatives in Durango, it is clear they do not have any kind of plan in place, should drought and wildfires impact their area.) 5. Foodservice Industry Direct Impact • Restaurants with private well systems could run out of water if their water source dries up. • Mandatory restrictions on dishwashing or beverage preparations (e.g. fountain drinks) could increase costs to the restaurant industry. Beverage sales may decline if disposable plates, glasses, utensils, etc., are required. • Any potential mandate requiring installation of water - conserving appliances (e.g., dishwashers or ice machines) would be an economic hardship for operators. Indirect Impact • Persistent and widespread fires in the mountains could discourage tourism to Colorado's resort towns, reducing restaurant patronage for the summer travel season. RECOMMENDED MITIGATION / RESPONSE: • Public Outreach/Education Counteract negative publicity by reminding the public that they can enjoy Colorado restaurants even if water is low. Keep the public optimistic about tourism's viability during drought and heightened fire danger.