2017 – Advancing Wood Product and Tourism Businesses in Western MA – MA EOEEA

An Evaluation of the Economic Needs of Wood Product and tourism based Businesses in the Mohawk Trail Woodlands Partnership

Group Members: James Loring, Ryan Foley, Ted Kim, and Nick Songer

Sponsor: Bob O’Connor (Massachusetts Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs)

Advisors: Seth Tuler, & Jennifer deWinter

Abstract: The economies of both Berkshire and Franklin counties are unsustainable and businesses are suffering.  Boosting wood and tourism businesses in the region can help alleviate this economic unsustainability.  We worked with the Massachusetts Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs and the Mohawk Trail Woodlands Partnership (MTWP) to evaluate seven programs proposed by the MTWP to help local wood and tourism businesses.  We conducted interviews with businesses in the region to obtain their opinions on the programs and to create profiles for each business.  Finally, we provided recommendations on how to improve the seven plans, marketing, internet infrastructure, and tourism in the region.