Lynn Kendall pictured at the FIRM conference at Grenfell Campus

C. Lynn Kendall received the Grenfell Graduate Supervision Incentive to support her research on the south side of Gros Morne National Park (GMNP). The project included three components to inform local operators and the provincial and federal governments about the economic and community benefits of tourism in the region.

On the southside of GMNP the communities of Woody Point, Trout River, and Glenburnie-Birchy Head-Shoal Brook (GBS) holds significant potential for cultural, geological, and historical tourism. However, challenges and opportunities in tourism development remain underexplored. Lynn Kendall created a comprehensive research plan to address key tourism issues in this region while providing an opportunity for graduate student mentorship and skill development.

Component 1: Extending the Tourism Season

Southern GMNP attracts nearly 240,000 visitors annually, primarily during June, July, and August. This research aims to identify strategies to extend the tourism season beyond these peak months. Through surveys and interviews with accommodation providers, service operators, and Parks Canada staff, the study will explore barriers and opportunities for year-round tourism; and the results of those surveys being disseminated to support local businesses and stakeholders in maximizing their economic potential.

Component 2: Inclusivity in Tourism

Creating inclusive tourism experiences is essential for catering to diverse visitors, including those with accessibility needs, cultural backgrounds, and 2SLGBTQIA+ identities. This component of the project will evaluate the current state of inclusivity in southern GMNP's tourism sector, identifying gaps and providing recommendations for improvement.

Component 3: Impact of the Writers at Woody Point Festival

The Writers at Woody Point festival is a pivotal cultural event that attracts international attention. This component focuses on evaluating the festival's economic and community impact on Woody Point and surrounding areas. Data from interviews with festival staff, including the Executive Director, and local tourism operators will provide insights into the festival's contributions to regional development.

Learning Opportunity for Graduate Student

The project includes a graduate student who will conduct literature reviews, assist in developing surveys and interview guides, and participate in data collection and analysis. The student will gain hands-on experience in qualitative research and engage directly with stakeholders in the Gros Morne region. This collaboration offers both academic growth and professional development.

Research Impact for GMNP and Beyond

Collectively, the research completed in each component will address a critical gap in tourism studies for rural Newfoundland and Labrador, providing actionable insights for policymakers and operators. By fostering a mutually beneficial supervisory relationship, the study will achieve its goals while contributing to the professional growth of the graduate student involved.

For more information, Lynn Kendall can be reached at f35lh@mun.ca.