Public forums to focus on strategy for tourism

The Maine Office of Tourism will hold a number of public hearings across the state in the coming weeks to help produce a five-year marketing plan to provide guidance to the Maine tourism industry. The information being gathered also should help direct the tourism office’s marketing programs.

The industry has enjoyed steady growth over the past several years, but the increase in competition from other states and destinations is increasing.

Public forums are scheduled for:

. Portland, 9-11 a.m., Oct. 16, Portland AmeriSuites.

. Wells, 2-4 p.m., Oct. 16, Wells Town Hall.

. Bethel, 9-11 a.m., Oct. 17, Sunday River Jordan Grand Hotel.

. Skowhegan, 2-4 p.m., Oct. 17, Skowhegan Recreation Center.

. Orono, 9-11 a.m., Oct. 19, Best Western Black Bear Inn.

. Presque Isle, 3-5 p.m., Oct. 19, Presque Isle Inn and Conference Center.

. Rockport, 3-5 p.m., Oct. 24, Samoset.

. Machias, 3-5 p.m., Oct. 25, University of Maine Machias.

. Augusta, 2-4, Nov.1, Senator Inn (focus on outdoor recreation).

. Augusta, 2-4 p.m., Nov. 2, Senator Inn (focus on arts and heritage).

For more information, e-mail forums@bdmp.com or call 541-2287.