ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the actual and potential role of ecotourism in contributing to the sustainable development of the Canadian prairie economy, as represented by the provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba (see Figure 9.1). While it is recognised that these two provinces have evolved along distinctive socio-economic and political trajectories, and will likely formulate ecotourism policies as separate competing units, there exist enough commonalities to merit their consideration as a single regional entity. The first section of the chapter is contextual, describing the weaknesses and strengths associated with their economy, and outlining the underlying factors and consequences related to those characteristics. The second section begins with a generic discussion of the ecotourism phenomenon, then considers the potential role of ecotourism in contributing to the economic enhancement of mainly rural destinations such as the two provinces. The actual extent of ecotourism in Saskatchewan and Manitoba is described in the third section, which then discusses the constraints and opportunities affecting the future expansion of the sector. In the final section I make recommendations, and present a framework within which the ecotourism industry of the prairie provinces, as well as other jurisdictions, can be planned and managed.
