South Dakota’s vast landscapes and iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore National Memorial have long attracted visitors.
To ensure these places stay pristine and welcoming for future visitors, Travel South Dakota launched the Forever 605 stewardship campaign.
Forever 605 is more than just a marketing slogan; it represents a commitment to fostering a deeper connection between visitors and the state. The campaign is designed to evoke a sense of timeliness and enduring appeal, reflecting the state’s multifaceted attractions that span its landscapes, heritage, and experiences.
“Our goal is to find the balance between the economic impact and being good stewards to the state, its way of life, and the natural resources that make our state special,” said Mike Gussiaas chief marketing and creative officer.
One of the key pillars of Forever 605 is highlighting South Dakota’s natural landscapes and attractions. With more than 77,000 square miles there are a multitude of unexplored destinations.
By building awareness towards lesser-known locations, visitors are more likely to discover the off-beaten paths and alleviate pressure towards popular travel destinations. This effort highlights the state’s undiscovered locations as tourism benefits.
Forever 605 encourages visitors to respect nature and the wildlife found within its attractions.
Gussiass shares that residents and visitors should be aware of their impact within the 605 state.
When travelers pick up stray wrappers and package their trash, they respect wildlife and preserve the trail for future visitors.
In addition to its natural beauty, South Dakota is rich in cultural and historical significance. The Forever 605 campaign asks visitors to care for the past and protect the state’s future.
To fully appreciate and respect South Dakota, visitors are encouraged to learn about its Indigenous, pioneer, and Old West roots, heritage, and cultures.
Attractions like the Crazy Horse Memorial, historic Deadwood, and numerous cultural festivals are featured prominently, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the state’s diverse cultural tapestry.
Forever 605 also focuses on strengthening the state by supporting its small businesses.
When visitors shop in the community’s one-of-a-kind shops and eateries, they respect our front-line workers in the industry and help the businesses thrive into the future.
“We want people to understand the impact they have when they visit,” shared Gussiaas.
Highlighting local artisans and eateries, the campaign ensures that tourism benefits are widely distributed and visitors gain a genuine South Dakota experience.
As Forever 605 enters its second year, Gussiaas shares that Travel South Dakota is initiating new efforts.
The first year was about building awareness, but now entering its second year, the Forever 605 initiative is asking businesses around the state to make the intentions of the campaign a part of their day.
TRAVEL RESPECTFULLY
It’s bigger than a state. It’s a state of mind.
The focused effort begins by providing a Forever 605 Toolkit, which includes an overview of ways to share the campaign with visitors, a pledge card, posters, a storefront decal, and Forever 605 stickers.
“We want to provide resources for them to not only display this message in a way that’s prominent but will get their customers and visitors talking about our efforts,” Gussiaas shared.
Visitors are encouraged to sign the Forever 605 Pledge, vowing to be “a brave wanderer and passionate steward of the 605 state.”
The Forever 605 stewardship campaign recognizes the positive impact tourism has on South Dakota’s economy and way of life.
Travel South Dakota is excited to celebrate what the 605 state is and focus on the quality of life that they want to see for South Dakotans, whether it be a resident or visitor.
For more information, visit TRAVELSOUTHDAKOTA.COM+
