The Yarmouth and Acadian Shores region is receiving provincial and federal support to develop a long-term plan for boosting tourism in the area.

The provincial government and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) are each contributing $67,500 to the $150,000 project. The South West Shore Development Authority will contribute $15,000.

"This funding is a continuation of our support for the tourism industry in the Yarmouth and Acadian Shores region," said Bill Dooks, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage. "The long-term plan we're funding will be strategic and customer focused, and it will draw on the rich cultural heritage of this beautiful part of Nova Scotia to bring more visitors here."

The steady decline in American visitors to Canada in the past 10 years and a change in the Cat ferry schedule, between Yarmouth and Maine, have contributed to challenges for tourism businesses in the Yarmouth area.

"The federal government, through ACOA, recognizes the potential for tourism in Yarmouth and the Acadian Shores region as well as the contribution this industry makes to the economy of southwest Nova Scotia. Our investment in the tourism potential of this part of the province shows our government's support for a long-term strategy to ensure a vibrant future for communities," said Peter MacKay, Minister of the Atlantic Canadian Opportunities Agency.

The development of the plan will be led by a steering committee with representatives from the department, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and the South West Shore Development Authority, as well as industry stakeholders and other partners.

The committee will hire a consultant to develop the plan, which will include an analysis of global tourism trends, a review of accommodations available in the region, and a look at opportunities to develop new tourism products.

The department recently designated a new tourism region in this area -- Yarmouth and Acadian Shores -- to help local operators with their marketing. Over the past two years, the department has invested almost $200,000 in tourism products and training in the area.

The provincial government has invested $3.75 million over three years in the Cat ferry service to ensure this important transportation link into Nova Scotia continues.