N.D. tourism officials meet in Fargo to discuss challenges, growth opportunities

FARGO - Visitor spending in North Dakota is growing faster than the national average, tourism officials said Wednesday.

The Bureau of Economic Analysis reported 17-percent growth in North Dakota visitor spending from 2001 to 2004, said North Dakota Tourism Director Sara Otte Coleman. The national average was 13.4 percent.

Tourism officials gathered in Fargo to discuss the industry's economic impact and to hear ideas from local tourism stakeholders.

The meeting is one of eight being offered around the state, with the goal to develop strategies and prioritize programs for the 2009 Legislature to consider.

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Readers can reach Forum reporter Teri Finneman at (701) 241-5560