A heritage area seems to be a perfect match for the goals and objectives of Emery County. The Carbon-Emery area is ideally situated to capitalize on such a designation not only because of its rich heritage, but also because of the infrastructure that is already in place. A Heritage Area is also a perfect fit for existing local events such as International Days and the Castle Valley Pageant. Linking these facilities and events together within the context of a national Heritage Area would greatly increase their exposure. They would become the hubs and staging areas for a heritage tourism industry that could bring many new dollars into the local economy.
Heritage tourism is one of the fastest growing segments of the national and global tourism industry.
One of the most important aspects of heritage tourism is its potential for spawning numerous local businesses. It provides the building blocks for local businesses that would deal in such things as handicrafts, art, theater and music, local foods, and guided tours. Heritage tourism provides an educational and participatory tourist experience that will create new niches for local business, and thus new jobs. It also respects and preserves the character of the community. Heritage tourism, if properly implemented, enhances a community first for the residents and then for the tourists.