Tourism officials are expecting a rebound on Grand Lake St. Marys in 2012 after some disappointing summer seasons.
To quote the Director of the Auglaize and Mercer County Convention and Visitors Bureau, 2011 was "less bad" for tourism than previous years. Hotel revenues in the two counties rose by about one percent last year. That's not much, but after a nearly 23 % drop the two years before having a number on the positive side was an accomplishment. With the second round of alum treatments at the lake and other restoration efforts continuing, the CVB is spreading the word that Grand Lake should be considered for summer getaways.
The CVB touted lake improvements during their 25th anniversary celebration. The Director of Travel and Tourism in Ohio says economic factors will play a role in tourism as well. With gas prices high, tourists are expected to take shorter trips, which means they'll stay in the state. Tourism is a 38 billion dollar industry in Ohio.
