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The Outer Banks is an amazing natural wonder that has been the source of historic achievements and supported a special way of life for generations. Let’s keep it that way and do our part. Look out for one another, be aware and prepared for any situation and work together to protect this place that we love. So let’s promise to:

• Discover this land of history and inspiration with a spirit of kindness and appreciation.
• Turn “what ifs” into “let’s prepare.”
• Pack it in, pack it out. Leave no trace.
• Wander with wonder, sticking to roads and paths.
• Soak up the beach vibes while giving respect to Mother Nature’s wild side.
• Be a wildlife star, observing animals safely from afar.
• Support local. Small acts have big impacts.

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Creating the Outer Banks Promise

As outlined in Goal #1 of the Outer Banks Long-Range Tourism Management Plan (LRTMP) - Strengthen Resident and Visitor Engagement - one of the strategic recommendations is to develop a destination pledge to communicate the important values of responsible behavior on the Outer Banks.

At its meeting on April 18, the Dare County Tourism Board approved the Special Committee's draft of the Outer Banks Promise. Similar pledges have been crafted by several destinations around the world - particularly in recent years - and are designed to communicate the important values of a destination with the goal of positively influencing and encouraging a commitment to responsible behaviors, including inspiring greater respect for the local culture, natural environment and safety. Examples include:

• Aspen, CO
• Bend, OR
• Big Sur, CA
• Finland
• Iceland
• Kauai, HI
• Sedona, AZ
• Telluride, CO

• Engage visitors’ emotions to inspire them to care about the destination)
• Require visitors to take action rather than passively reading a list of guidelines
• Make their promises public by signing the pledge and submitting

What is the Long-Term Goal of Such a Pledge?
Ultimately, the long-term goal of a destination pledge is to positively influence behaviors, including inspiring greater respect for the natural environment and local culture as well as ensuring visitor safety.