The Sundre and District Chamber of Commerce is planning an unusual rally to combat a decline in the number of touists this summer.
Gord Moore, manager of the Chamber, said tourism is down because of the June 7th Plains Midstream Canada oil spill that leaked up to 3,000 barrels (475,000 litres) of crude oil into the Red Deer River and Gleniffer Lake, about one km downstream of Sundre.
“People have called and cancelled because they heard there was an oil spill around Sundre so they stopped coming,” said Moore. “People are thinking the whole river is messed up. It’s downstream from Sundre. It hasn’t affected any of the backcountry white water rafting.”
Sundre is a popular destination for fishing, camping, hiking, golfing, RVing and trail riding.
Moore said the tourists are not coming to shop at the stores, eat in local restaurants or book tours like they have in previous years.
Moore said there were about 10 per cent cancellations of Red Deer River white water rafting trips and other outdoor pursuits in June. He said the numbers have picked up a slightly this month but the overall numbers are down compared to last year.
On July 30, the Chamber will take the unusual step of hosting a tourism rally at the Sundre District Historical Society and Pioneer Village Museum.
Moore said they want people to understand Sundre is open for business and the tourism industry is a vital part of the community’s economy.
Deputy mayor and restaurant owner Chris Vardas said the community banks on the usual spike in business during the summer season. Sales at his restaurant, Trendies, is down about 10 to 15 per cent daily.
“We went through this slump with the economy being down,” said Vardas.
“We all look forward to the summer boost. And this year the boost isn’t there.”
Vardas hopes the rally will draw the tourists back to Sundre.
The rally starts at noon with speeches. Lunch will be served. At 1 p.m. a few people will go for a spin on the Red Deer River. For more information, call 403-638-3245.
Sundre is 100 km southwest of Red Deer.
crhyno@www.reddeeradvocate.com