Carbon County is host to a beautiful backdrop that comes to life with each unique season. As we say goodbye to summer, the leaves are rapidly changing and welcome the stunning colors of fall. Thousands of visitors will flock to our area to get a glimpse of nature's magical transformation. Tourists as well as local community members will enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, train rides and much more. So, how can a business leverage the seasons?

A great example is the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, the organization that is building the D&L Trail. You will find visitors and local residents walking, cycling and running as they experience nature and explore the region all while getting healthy.Elissa Garofalo, president and executive director of the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor said, "Savvy merchants are tapping into proven revenue generation in the burgeoning trail-user market. Statistics show trails can be powerful tools for economic development, and in Carbon County they are residents who are buying locally."She suggests taking advantage of the growing market by offering supplies, amenities and hospitality. "Are your customers greeted warmly when they enter your shop or facility, can you and your employees answer questions about the town and region and do you do so in a friendly manner? Do your store hours match customer needs?" are great things to think about as a business owner.A recent survey conducted by the D&L found that over 40 percent of trail users make purchases at locally owned shops and spend an average dollar amount of $33.49 per visit. These purchases were reported to have been made in conjunction with their trail visit. In addition, visitors stayed overnight at an average expense of $132.36 per night with an average stay of 2.2 nights. When you think about the number of people who will be flocking to our area in the upcoming months, this truly adds up! As a resident, continue to "shop local" and patronize our wonderful small-business owners to help keep the economy in Carbon County strong and prosperous.Take the time to assess your business, research the region and your surrounding area so that you are ready to answer questions and direct others as needed. When we all find a way to work together, support one another and offer up a friendly smile while doing so, our visitors will most likely return, and best of all, they may tell others about the great experience they had in Carbon County. Take pride in our area, speak of it in a positive manner and be kind to all.Join the Carbon Chamber and Economic Development Corporation on Oct. 28 in Jim Thorpe from 5-6:30 p.m. Program topic: "Learn how you can maximize the economic potential of the D&L Trail." For more details or to register for the program, contact CCEDC at 610-379-5000 or Marlyn Kissner at

marlynk@lehighvalleychamber.org.