The Potential and Viability of Avitourism in Rural Kentucky.

Birding represents an opportunity for tourism, education, conservation, and inclusivity. As a form of ecotourism, avitourism seeks to be a sustainable and ethical form recreation that benefits local communities. Conservation of birds and their habitat is key to the idea of avitourism, however, human effects can lead to harmful disturbances. The local human communities can see great benefits from avitourism, mostly in the form of job opportunities and development. There is no guarantee for this, as avitourists may represent a wealthy demographic which may influence local business structure. A need for more inclusivity is noted as being important to growth of the activity of avitourism, especially if it is expected to grow in areas such as Appalachia, where there is a history of unsustainable practices with the region’s natural resources. Avitourism represents more sustainable option for the area and potentially aid in filling a gap left in the economy by less sustainable practices. This paper will highlight the known affects and potential of avitourism to determine how rural Kentucky may possibly benefit and implement avitourism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]