The Shuswap Geo Quest project is an innovative technology based concept that will showcase our region's amazing assets and encourage local, national and international travelers to explore and discover all that the Shuswap has to offer. A type of modern day hide and seek, the Shuswap GEO Quest project will take advantage of the trend toward increased use of GPS systems to encourage self guided exploration and discovery across the Shuswap. As a destination for all four seasons, the Shuswap region will be widely featured on regional and provincial websites and through technology such as Google Earth. These emerging technologies form the foundation for a regional project that has been designed to help stimulate economic, cultural and social benefits in the region.

What is GeoCaching?

Geocaching is a high-tech version of hide-and-seek where geocachers seek out hidden treasures utilizing GPS technology. Geocachers visit a web-site such as www.geocaching.com to find a list of coordinates for hidden caches. Once at the location given by the GPS coordinates, the geocacher searches for a hidden container which normally contains a log book and a number of items for trade. When a geocacher finds a cache, they record their name in the log book and exchange a trinket of their own for something in the container. Geocachers then log their finds on the internet and write comments about their experiences.

Why is Geocaching becoming so popular?

Geocaching is a relatively new activity. The novel concept has widespread appeal as an environmentally-friendly, recreational activity. The experience offers physical activity and mental stimulation. Caches are often located near hiking trails and other outdoor attractions. Caches are often cleverly hidden and can include puzzles and cryptic clues. Playing with cutting edge technology appeals to some; acquiring and trading collectible items from the caches appeals to others. The most rewarding part of Geocaching is discovering the treasures of the area. Many people discover places that they didn’t know existed such as beautiful viewpoints, hidden parks, secluded beaches, natural wonders, restaurants, and unique shops. As GPS use continues to grow, more and more people will discover Geocaching. Aside from the many handheld GPS units on the market, the technology is available with cars, phones, cameras and other high-tech gadgets. Geocaching is an affordable activity that is accessible to people of all ages.

What are the plans for the Shuswap QEO Quest Project?

Create More Geocaching Opportunities

We will establish at least 250 new caches. Caches will contain a log book, a prize certificate for the first time find, a souvenir coin, and a number of trinkets, coupons and vouchers. A new series of caches will be introduced each week starting from the end of June 2009 until October 2010. We will be working with partners and sponsors to provide valuable items and prizes for the caches.

Develop Itineraries

The Shuswap has many treasures waiting to be discovered. Part of the initiative will create itineraries of things to do around the Shuswap. Itineraries will include a variety of themes highlighting points of interests and options for activities, places to see and things to do. A major tourism trend is “experience tourism”. People don’t want to just go to a destination; they want to have choices of things to do while they are there. There is an opportunity to put together customized packages.

Coordinate Events

We will coordinate 4 major geo-caching events, each highlighting a different season and hosted in a different area of the Shuswap. We will be working in collaboration with various groups and organizations to ensure that the events are successful and do not compete with other events.

Facilitate Training Sessions

We will work with the Shuswap Trail Alliance and Okanagan College to offer training sessions to learn how to use GPS technology. We will also provide information to businesses and organizations on how to increase their internet presence by being listed on Google Maps and other tips.

Increase Web Presence

We will increase the internet footprint of the Shuswap region by taking advantage of technology such as Google Earth, YouTube, social networking sites, Wikipedia and other online resources. To help promote the Shuswap, we will publish at least 100 high quality photographs and create at least 15 video podcasts. We will contribute a significant amount of resources to redevelop the Shuswap Tourism web-site as well as to conduct a multi-media marketing campaign.

How will the initiative benefit the Shuswap?

Promotion

The Shuswap will be in the spotlight through an integrated media marketing campaign tied in with the increased international attention afforded by the 2010 Olympics. Individual companies and organizations will be given a unique marketing opportunity by sponsoring events and providing promotional items and prizes for caches.

Collaboration and Partnerships

Community Futures is working with many other organizations on this project for the mutual benefit of the Shuswap Region. Increased teamwork will improve efficiency and effectiveness of programs, initiatives and events. Too often events are scheduled at the same time and people are forced to choose to attend on or the other. By building relationships and improving communication, groups can work together to create combined events or to schedule events on different days. With increased communication and collaboration opportunities are realized.

Social & Cultural Benefits

Coordinated interactive events provide opportunities to meet and socialize with a variety of people. Itineraries will highlight cultural opportunities such as museums, galleries, art walks, festivals, and pow-wows. An increased appreciation and connection to arts and culture can be developed.

Environmental Benefits

The eco-tourism activity of Geocaching promotes environmental awareness through the cache in, trash out campaign. Geocachers are encouraged to respect the environment and to do their part to improve the state of the environment by picking up garbage on their geo quest.

Economic Benefits

The initiative will put the Shuswap and its businesses in the spotlight and attract more tourist traffic. By promoting year round opportunities we hope to extend the shoulder seasons and develop the off season. This will lead to increased revenue and more employment. As we build relationships with people and organizations we will discover niche market opportunities that can be capitalized on. We can put people in touch with each other to make things happen.

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