Sawyer County Celebrates Tourism spending up 1.2% in Sawyer County Last Year By Sherry Beckman Executive Director, Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau Visitor spending in Sawyer County was up 1.2% from last year according to a report released by the Wisconsin Department of Tourism. The publication of the state’s tourism economic impact report for 2018 coincides with National Travel and Tourism Week, which runs from May 5th-11th. Sawyer County visitors spent 93.1 million in 2018, an increase of 1.2% over the $ 92 million dollars spent by visitors in 2017. Overall visitor spending in Wisconsin totaled $21.5 billion last year according to the annual economic impact study prepared for the Wisconsin Department of Tourism by Tourism Economic. That’s a statewide increase of 4.68% compared to the $20 billion visitors spent in Wisconsin in 2017. In Sawyer County, the $93.1 million in direct visitor spending last year supported 1006 jobs and $22.8 million in labor income. Visitor spending also generated $10.5 million in state and local taxes, an increase of 2.94 % over 2017.
Sherry Beckman, Executive Director of the Hayward Lakes Visitors and Convention Bureau (HLVCB) said the annual economic impact figures continue to show how vital the travel industry is to the state and Sawyer County. “We are pleased to see the 8th consecutive year of visitor spending growth in Sawyer County, and along with it, the positive impact these dollars have on our local economy.” Beckman, said. In Sawyer County, the incremental growth in annual visitor spending over the past 5 years is 20 million, a 31% increase since 2014. The Town of Hayward room tax collections increased 45% from $49,000 in 2010 to $71,000 last year. 2018 is a notable year as it was the first year that the Town of Hunter was part of the room tax collection adding $63,000.00. Sawyer County ranked 34 among the state’s 72 counties in visitor spending. Tourism is an economic driver for Sawyer County, and Beckman says the HLVCB continues to work on new and innovative ways to promote the destination to travelers.
Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau, Sawyer County, WI USA 15805 US Hwy 63/PO Box 1055 Hayward, WI 54843 715-634-4801 / 800-724-2992 haywardlakes.com
Discover Wisconsin Names Sawyer County as Choice Destination Sawyer County was selected as a choice destination in 2019 by Discover Wisconsin Media Works for their partnership in the newest TV segment, “The Trails at the Top” which aired on February 2, 2019.
L to R. Mariah Haberman, DW host, Lisa Beck, DW partner relations, Chris Ruckdashel, Hayward Chamber, Sherry Beckman, HLVCB, Jeff Raether, Cable Chamber, Cherie Morgan, HAMH & WE, Nancy Knutson, Birkie, Mary Motiff, Bayfield County Tourism and Ben Popp, Birkie.
Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau
The Hayward Lakes Visitors and Convention Bureau, Sawyer County, WI USA is the official tourism marketing organization for Sawyer County, whose mission is to increase the number of visitors to the Hayward Lakes Area, by communicating the unique resources our area offers to the seasonally diverse activity segments and to the seasonally diverse demographic segments.
haywardlakes.com
Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau
haywardlakes.com
Economic Impact of Tourism Visitor Spending
State and Local Taxes Generated
(In millions)
(In millions)
100 90
14
80
12
70
10
60 8
50 40
6
30
4
20 2
10 $59
$71.1
$72.3
$78.4
$83.7
$85.6
$88.3
$92
$93.1
6
Room Tax Collections - Town of Hayward
8.9
9.1
9.6
9.8
9.9
10.2
100 90
(In millions)
80
Dane County
1246
70
Sauk County
1086
60
Door County
358.7
50
Eau Claire County 257
40 $49,115.00
$50,801.00
$53,799.00
$59,660.00
$61,869.00
$62,020.00
$63,824.00
$63,987.00
$71,320.00
30
10
14
Area Counties for Tourism Spending in Wisconsin 2017
(In thousands)
20
12.4
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
Vilas County
219.3
Barron County
102.5
Sawyer County 92 Bayfield County 47.7 Ashland County 35.1 Washburn County 30.6
AWSC Awarding Nine as Snowmobile Friendly Community SFC Designation Celebrates Snowmobile Club and Community Partnership
L-R Drew Nussbaum, WI DOT, Steve Bethke, Birchwood Bobcat Riders, Sherry Beckman, HLVCB, Don Mrotek and Dave Newman, AWSC President The Association of Wisconsin Snowmobile Clubs (AWSC) formally announced nine Wisconsin Communities as a ‘Snowmobile Friendly Community’ during the AWSC’s 50th annual Convention in Green Bay, WI March 22-23, 2019. Over 700 Conferees representing all 72 Wisconsin counties were on-hand to congratulate the first Awardees of the new Snowmobile Friendly Community (SFC) Program. The winning Communities of Algoma, Eagle River, Hayward, St. Germain, Three Lakes, and Tomahawk, along with three counties: Bayfield, Iron, and Sawyer achieved their Snowmobile Friendly status by submitting a detailed, 21-page application describing how they and their snowmobile clubs advocate for safe and responsible snowmobiling in their areas. All SFC winners are awarded reflective, high-visibility, 24’ x 36” highway signs to let all visitors know they are entering a “Snowmobile Friendly Community.” Although created by the AWSC, the SFC Program partnered with the Wisconsin Department of Tourism
to ensure the statewide SFC Evaluation Panel included a Tourism professional to ensure the Program accurately identified which communities and snowmobile clubs were ‘best’ at welcoming, preserving, and providing snowmobile access, support. and services for snowmobilers. The SFC Award/Designation lasts for four years and communities may reapply for subsequent awards at the end of their term. Annually, the AWSC’s Spring Convention serves as the final major snowmobiling event for the 600+ Wisconsin Snowmobile Clubs who create and maintain over 24,000 miles of public snowmobile trails in all 72 Wisconsin counties. Keynote Speaker “Screaming Scott Eilertson former snowmobile dare-devil and leader of the 1990 Minnesota-Moscow Snowmobile Expedition, energized the attendees with a powerful, autobiographical speech sharing how his first experience on a snowmobile as a child fueled his
passion to do something incredible on a snowmobile. He stressed how anyone’s dreams can be turned into reality by surrounding yourself with great people who share your passion, dedication, and fearlessness to overcome obstacles. In addition to celebrating its 50th anniversary, the AWSC recognized multiple Snowmobile Clubs who also turned 50 In 2019. The prestigious ‘President’s Cup’ was awarded to Ms Lari Pohl for her outstanding service as the AWSC’s Office Manager from 2008-2016, The Convention also included meetings and snowmobile briefings from the Wl DNR and American Council of Snowmobile Associations (ACSA), all in an effort to continue to promote the expansion and education of responsible snowmobiling. The AWSC Scholarship program closed the Convention by awarding nine high school seniors with scholarships ranging from $300-$2.000.
Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau
haywardlakes.com
The World is 360° The Hayward Lakes area properties are featured in stunning 360° imagery. Visitors can control their own adventure and experience a unique view like never before. Check out what our area has to offer by visiting www.haywardlakes.com/360tour/
Tourism is Everywhere
By Patti Wood Business Manager, Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau
Tourism in the Hayward Lakes Area can be found everywhere – it’s not only lodging, restaurants, and our attractions. Every business plays a part in this jigsaw puzzle of helping the tourist have their ‘very best’ vacation... helping them create experiences of excitement on the trails, to relax and rejuvenate at the beach or on the lake, or just spending the day ‘in town’ shopping, dining, or golfing. The beauty of the Hayward Lakes Area is there truly is something for everyone. For the tourist – we offer large lakes, small lakes, vacations in the woods or on a trail, resorts, B&B’s, vacation homes, hotels, on the river, or camp-
ing… they can be close to the city of Hayward, or away from it. Everyone needs restaurants, things to do, places to visit, and available services. Whatever business you want to promote, the Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau is here for you! All of our area Sawyer County businesses benefit from our tourists, even if you don’t think you’re in the tourism business. ‘Your customers are all locals’, you’re thinking… but there is a very good chance your business caters to visitors too. The Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau is a way to promote your business to the locals and to those that don’t live here. We’re a membership based organization and once you’re a member – you will enjoy the year-round promotion to tourists! The ways we’ll promote you will include:
Namekagon River: Wisconsin’s Moving National Park Tourism Grant Awarded With help from a $39,500 Joint Effort Marketing (JEM) grant from the Wisconsin Department of Tourism, “Namekagon River: Wisconsin’s Moving National Park” was highlighted by the many outdoor recreation opportunities the Namekagon River offers throughout the year. The campaign ran through December 2018, concurrent with the 50th anniversary of the river being named a Wild & Scenic River. The Hayward Lakes VCB has partnered with Bayfield County Tourism, Washburn County Tourism and the Burnett County Tourism Coalition to market the river.
• Listing in the official annual Hayward Lakes Vacation Guide – with ability to purchase additional advertising. • Brochure distribution in Hayward’s Visitor Information Center • Included on www.haywardlakes.com with description, contact info, photos, etc • Lodging members – Give us your vacancies, we’ll help you fill them! • Represent your business at sport shows • Inclusion in printed promotional materials • Opportunity to be included in special events, traveling journalists, local promotions • Lobbying representation in Madison • Social Media postings The Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau can help your business succeed. If you’re interested in becoming a member, contact Patti Wood at 715-634-4801
Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau
Hayward Lakes Visitor & Convention Bureau Executive Members of the Board of Directors
haywardlakes.com
Marketing Partners & Friends of Tourism The following marketing partners are financial contributors to the Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau, Sawyer County, WI USA
Hayward Area Chamber of Commerce PO Box 726 15805 US Highway 63 Hayward, WI 54843 www.haywardareachamber.com info@haywardareachamber.com 715-634-8662
From left - From Left: Kris Treland-Neumann - Treasurer, Margaret Hoffmann – Secretary, Cheryl Treland – Vice President, Amanda Wilson – President
Board of Directors
Lake Chippewa Flowage Resort Association 10630 W. Twin Bay Road Hayward WI 54843 www.chippewaflowage.com
Birchwood Area Chamber of Commerce www.birchwoodwi.com
Lac Courte Oreilles Tribal Government 13394W Trepania Road Hayward, WI 54843 715-634-8934 www.lco-nsn.gov
Quiet Lakes Resort Association www.quietlakes.com Town of Hayward 15460 W State Hwy. 77E Hayward, WI 54843 715-634-4123 www.townofhayward.com
From left, back row - Chris Ruckdaschel, Diane Weber, Jim Onarheim, Mike Dorenski, David Thearin, Angie Dorenski, Brenda Dettloff, Margaret Hoffman, Don Mrotek. From left, front row - Kris Treland-Neumann, Julie Thomas-Telitz, Cheryl Treland, Amanda Wilson. Missing: Mike Best, Randy Cadotte, Troy Morgan, Melanie Mikesh, Denny Reyes, Kaci Robotka-Cooper, Amanda Staudemeyer, and Louis Taylor
Town of Namakagon 43670 County Road D Cable, WI 54821 715-794-2036 www.Namakagon-WI.org namakagon@cheqnet.net
Town of Hunter 9316 N County Road CC Hayward, Wisconsin 54843 www.townofhunterwi.net townhunter@centurytel.net
Find us on: Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau
Sawyer County Government 10610 Main St. Hayward, Wisconsin 54843 715-634-4866 www.sawyercountygov.org/
Nelson Lake Resort Association 13045N Dam Road Hayward, WI 54843 715-634-4175 www.nelsonlake.net
Friends of Tourism Pat’s Landing Resort www.patslandingresort.com Oak Shores www.oakshores.com Treeland Resorts www.treelandresorts.com Chippewa Valley Bank www.chipppewavalleybank.com Peoples Bank Midwest www.pbmbank.com Jump River Electric www.jrec.net
haywardlakes.com