The Southwest Outdoor Expo is coming to Ignacio in May.
After it's created.
The expo - the name will be confirmed shortly - is being organized by Emily Meisner, the chairman of La Plata County Economic Development Alliance (LEAD) and a past president of the Ignacio Chamber of Commerce. She owns the Patio restaurant in Ignacio.
Helping Meisner out is Cathy Calderwood, director of the Pine River Community Learning Center and a current member of the chamber board.
Meisner said LEAD data shows county residents spend $60 million every year on outdoor activities. Getting more of that money spent in Ignacio and Bayfield would be a huge boost for small-town economies, she said.
The expo is slated for May 29, 30 and 31 in Ignacio. There will be a beer tent, and the learning center will handle food sales. Admission is $10 per person, or $20 per family. Meisner said she foresees businesses involved in hunting, fishing, boats, golf, cycling, mountain climbing, camping, off-road vehicles, resorts and others wanting to participate. She would like it to be a family-friendly event that capitalizes on the outdoor activities that many of us participate in.
"We want to expo the quality of life we have here in Ignacio," Meisner told chamber members at their monthly meeting on Wednesday. Chamber members unanimously approved that the chamber will organize the event.
Meisner has approached businesses for a $15,000 presentation sponsorship, and some are interested in the idea. She is preparing a packet to send out to potential vendors this month.
Those interested in volunteering for the event are invited to a planning meeting at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20 at the Patio.
