MISSISSIPPI STATE -- Community leaders and residents looking for ways to diversify an area’s traditional agriculturally based economy may find their answers at an upcoming summit on regional tourism.

The 2006 Miss-Lou Regional Tourism Summit will be Aug. 9-11 in Natchez. This summit targets the area of eastern Louisiana and southwestern Mississippi. Predominately situated along the Mississippi River, this region boasts a natural, rural setting that is rich in history, beauty and attractions. The educational program will focus on the importance of tourism to a region.

Organized in part by Mississippi State University’s Extension Service, the meeting will address niche markets, cultural tourism and regional partnerships. Speakers will suggest ways to identify and package area attractions and to promote tourism with limited budgets.

The three-day summit will begin at the Natchez Convention Center with other activities and sessions held in Vidalia and Woodville. Hotel accommodations are available at the historic Eola Hotel in Natchez and the Comfort Suites Riverfront in Vidalia. Make reservations by July 26 to get the conference guest rates.

For more information on the summit, visit the MSU Extension Service Community Development Program’s Web site at http://www.msucares.com/crd. Early registration fees for the conference are $75. After July 10 the cost is $100. For additional questions, contact Ann Davis at (601) 888-3211 or annd@ext.msstate.edu.

Contact: Chance McDavid, (662) 325-1793