Focus on Parks and Protected Areas
Since 2003, much of Harbinger’s work has focused on national and state parks and other protected areas—and nearby communities that are their most direct neighbors and stewards. We help community, business and economic development groups, park management, and park advocates with research and economic analysis, communications and promotion, strategy and project planning, community outreach, and education.
“This is what we can promise the future: a legacy of care. That we will be good stewards and not take too much or give back too little, that we will recognize wild nature for what it is, in all its magnificent and complex history - an unfathomable wealth that should be consciously saved, not ruthlessly spent.”
How harbinger work with and for parks
Park economic impact & significance studies
Quantitative and qualitative research done in close consultation with local business, government, conservation, and other community leaders and park staff.
Visitation & visitor studies
Visitor trends, behavior, numbers and spending analyses using existing data or carefully conducted surveys, focus groups, visitor counts and other methods.
education & engagement
Interdisciplinary, park-based curriculum materials and education programs, done in collaboration with school districts, community groups and nonprofits. Community engagement and issues forums.
Economic Value research
Assessments of economic values related to wildlife, restoration and climate resiliency programs, outdoor recreation, and other park-related programs and benefits.
Business and Entrepreneurship
Business community engagement, collaborative identification of business and entrepreneurial opportunities, and program design for supporting local businesses and workforce development related to parks, outdoor recreation, history and culture, arts, and tourism.
new parks & managemenT
Economic projections and recommendations for proposed parks, protective designations, and designation changes. Analysis to support management decisions related to visitor services and gateway communities.