Wednesday March 16 at the Yukon Inn in Whitehorse the Carcross Summit II was held.

More than 70 people helped chart the course for economic development in the Carcross area at the Destination Carcross summit held on Wednesday, March 18.

The summit was an information and planning session co-hosted by the Carcross/Tagish First Nation, the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway and the Yukon government Department of Economic Development.

"This summit is an opportunity for people to share information, build partnerships and foster a healthy community," Southern Lakes MLA Patrick Rouble said, delivering opening comments on behalf of Economic Development Minister Jim Kenyon. "It’s our goal to develop jobs and build a sustainable economy for the Carcross region while respecting the heritage and quality of life for Carcross/Tagish residents."

The all-day conference attracted a wide representation of stakeholders from the Carcross area, including businesses, tourism industry representatives, government officials, First Nation representatives and members of the community. Attendance exceeded organizers’ expectations.

Delegates were engaged in a full slate of morning presentations and an afternoon of discussion and work planning. "As a government, we have a responsibility to shape the vision and work with the community, our members and local businesses to make it a reality," Khà Shâde Héni Mark Wedge said. "The business incubator model is one example of what we can do as a government to support this vision."

"As a government, we have a responsibility to shape the vision and work with the community, our members and local businesses to make it a reality," Khà Shâde Héni Mark Wedge said. "The business incubator model is one example of what we can do as a government to support this vision."

Summit highlights included a Yukon government Community Services presentation on the $3 million waterfront project, a cultural workshop by Carcross/Tagish member Marilyn Jenson and an overview by Mark Stephens of Yukon College’s new tourism guiding program in Carcross. Hand-made button blankets, colourful displays and video presentations created a dynamic backdrop for a day of stimulating talks and idea sharing.

Summit Gallery

"Working together to
make the vision a reality"

"The summit was a major milestone that galvanized our work to date and sets a course for action," Michael Brandt, White Pass & Yukon Route vice-president said. "White Pass is committed to the Destination Carcross vision, and we can bring marketing strength to the partnership."

The summit builds on progress made by Carcross/Tagish First Nation, White Pass & Yukon Route and the Yukon government through the ‘Destination Carcross’ memorandum of understanding, a commitment to work together to increase visitors and stimulate economic development in the Carcross area.