The Central Catskills Chamber of Commerce supports and participates in many community events throughout the year. Left: Participants in the Catskill Mountain Cycling Challenge riding along Route 30 along the Pepacton Reservoir. Right: Chamber Executive Director Carol O’Beirne at the Catskill Center’s Great Outdoor Expo, held last June.
Unlocking the Treasures of the Catskills The Central Catskills Chamber of Commerce Connects Communities Along the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway
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estled amid the picturesque splendor of New York’s Catskill Mountains lies a region that seems to have been plucked straight from the pages of a storybook. The Catskills, with their lush forests, changing landscapes of farming, and pristine streams, have long been a haven for those seeking solace in nature’s embrace. But beyond their natural beauty, the Catskills also boast a vibrant community of businesses, artists, farmers’ markets, planned growth for four-season recreational destinations that make this region truly special. At the heart of it all stands the Central Catskills Chamber of Commerce, an organization dedicated to nurturing and celebrating the unique charm of this mountainous paradise through business relationships and community involvement.
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
A BRIDGE BETWEEN PAST AND PRESENT
COMMUNITY BUILDING
The Catskill Mountains have a storied history, with their roots tracing back to the early days of American settlement. As the years rolled on, the region evolved from a hub for logging and tanning into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, artists, organic and specialty farming, second homeownership, and tourism. Today, it’s a place where time-honored traditions blend seamlessly with modern pursuits, and the Central Catskills Chamber of Commerce continues to be a bridge to what has made this area thrive as a connected community while continuing to foster sustainability into the future supporting the creation of the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway that continues to grow the tourism economy along Route 28. 12 • issuu.com/catskillmtnregionguide
Preservation of the natural beauty that makes the Catskills so enchanting is paramount. The chamber recognizes the vital importance of environmental stewardship, and they work diligently to promote sustainable practices. Through partnerships with conservation organizations, they facilitate initiatives aimed at protecting the region’s ecosystems, wildlife, and waterways. Their efforts extend to educating both residents and visitors on responsible outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, and fishing. By encouraging eco-conscious tourism and land management, the chamber ensures that future generations can continue to revel in the pristine beauty of the Catskills.
At its core, the Central Catskills Chamber of Commerce is about supporting a tight-knit community. Promoting events and fairs such as the Fleischmanns First Annual Street Fair, the Margaretville Annual Cauliflower Festival, Andes Community Day, Olive Day, the Catskills Visitor Center’s Outdoor Festival, Belleayre Mountains Fall Festival, fosters a sense of belonging among residents and visitors alike. The chamber understands that a thriving community goes beyond business and tourism—it’s about people coming together to celebrate their shared love for this remarkable region.
