The Outer Banks Promise Encourages Public to ‘Make a Promise, Protect the Place’
Destination Pledge Promotes a Commitment to Responsible Behavior
The Dare County Tourism Board (DCTB) Special Committee, tasked with implementing the strategic recommendations of the Outer Banks Long-Range Tourism Management Plan (LRTMP), is pleased to introduce the Outer Banks Promise, a destination pledge that encourages responsible behavior with the intent of protecting and preserving the vitality of the community for generations to come.
Containing seven core messages that are rooted in kindness, responsibility, respect and safety, the Outer Banks Promise is designed to inspire awareness and action, drawing attention to what makes this place special, as well as exposing its vulnerability. There is also an opportunity for individuals to insert their own unique perspective on how they will protect the Outer Banks.
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The Outer Banks Promise
Make a Promise, Protect the Place
The Outer Banks is an amazing natural wonder that has been the source of historic achievements and supported a special way of life for generations. Let’s keep it that way and do our part. Look out for one another, be aware and prepared for any situation and work together to protect this place that we love. So let’s promise to:
- Discover this land of history and inspiration with a spirit of kindness and appreciation.
- Turn “what ifs” into “let’s prepare.”
- Pack it in, pack it out. Leave no trace.
- Wander with wonder, sticking to roads and paths.
- Love the beach, respect the ocean.
- Be a wildlife star, observing animals safely from afar.
- Support local. Small acts have big impacts.
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Visit OBXPromise.com to make your promise online. You can also download an “I Promise” card and share how you will help protect the Outer Banks by uploading a photo on social media with #OBXPromise. In addition, visitors to the four Welcome Centers in Dare County will have an opportunity to show their support as well.
“By making the Outer Banks Promise, we show appreciation for the uniqueness of our community and culture,” explains Dennis Robinson, Chair of the DCTB Special Committee and Hatteras Island At-Large Member of the Tourism Board. “This is an early but important step that the committee has taken towards addressing the importance of strengthening resident and visitor engagement, as outlined in our long-range plan.”
When the LRTMP was published nearly one year ago, it established a roadmap for the future of tourism in Dare County to ensure that tourism preserves – and even benefits – the local culture, natural environment and quality of life for residents while enhancing visitor experiences.
“The Outer Banks Promise is an example of how we’re approaching tourism in a slightly different way,” notes Lee Nettles, Executive Director of the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau. “We’re focused on ensuring that tourism works in harmony with our community strengths and values to continue making it such an incredible place to live and visit.”
About the Outer Banks Long-Range Tourism Management Plan (LRTMP)
The LRTMP was published in May 2023, following an 18-month process begun by the Dare County Tourism Board and executed by the staff of the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau and partners at MMGY NextFactor and Tourism Economics. The comprehensive 10-year plan was created with the input of 19 Task Force members, hundreds of community stakeholders and thousands of Dare County residents. To learn more about the LRTMP visit OuterBanks.org/LRTMP.
About The Outer Banks
The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau is the lead marketing and promotional agency for The Outer Banks of North Carolina, funded by one percent of the occupancy tax and one percent of the prepared meals tax collected in Dare County.
Contact
Jeff Schwartzenberg
Community Engagement Manager
Outer Banks Visitors Bureau
252.473.7155