The Hampshire County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) presented its annual report, highlighting significant growth in tourism and media coverage for the region. The report emphasized the successful promotion of Hampshire County's natural beauty and unique experiences, particularly through features in West Virginia Living Magazine and Blue Ridge Country Magazine, which spotlighted the 2023 Farm Crawl.

The CVB noted a remarkable increase in lodging tax collections, which have surged by nearly 41% over the past two years and an impressive 104% since fiscal year 2021. In the first three months of the current fiscal year, lodging tax collections rose by 37.2% compared to the same period last year, indicating a strong trajectory for continued growth in tourism.

The bureau has also enhanced its digital presence, now engaging over 10,524 followers across social media platforms and boasting an email subscriber list of 6,117. Educational initiatives remain a priority, with participation in various programs, including the STS Marketing College and the Governor's Conference on Tourism.

Signature events like the Hampshire County Farm Crawl and the Potomac Highlands Sportsman and Outdoor Show have attracted diverse visitors, reinforcing the county's appeal as a destination for authentic local experiences. The CVB underscored that its funding comes from lodging taxes collected from visitors, ensuring that local taxpayer money is not utilized unless residents are utilizing accommodations.

Overall, the report reflects a positive outlook for Hampshire County's tourism sector, with plans to build on this momentum in the coming year.