JULY NIBJ: Tourism decline threatens bottom line for North Idaho businesses
A photo of the Unite States, Idaho and Canadian flags in Bonners Ferry. They have flown together since 1987.
Photo BY NED NEWTON
With reduced Canadian traffic, campsite closures, and limited U.S. Forest Service staffing, Boundary and Bonner counties are bracing for a slower summer tourism season — something local business owners say will impact their bottom line.
“It appears we will have a challenging summer,” said Tom Turpin, CEO of the Kootenai River Inn and Casino. “From mid-June to mid-September, we typically run at 92 to 95 percent occupancy. But we are seeing a sharp decline in southbound Canadian traffic, and possibly a reduction in northbound traffic as well. It’s showing in our hotel occupancy.”
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