The International Selkirk Loop is calling for a swift and beneficial resolution to trade disputes with serious concern for local economies along the U.S-Canada border.
Earlier this month the organization’s Board of Directors issued an open letter to federal members of the United States and Canada, emphasizing the critical importance of cross-border tourism.
Donna Molvik with the Loop says it is critical to keep access flowing and encouraged.
“Nelson is a comparatively larger town than say Medellin Falls, Washington, but none of our cities, our towns, our villages are very large and they’re all kind of remote, it’s hard enough to be profitable and employ everybody you want to employ and service all those needs,” said Donna.
“But in times where things are more challenging like what we’ve been experiencing here recently we feel that you know our businesses around the loop are more at risk for struggling even harder.”
The International Selkirk Loop is a non-profit tourism marketing association representing communities across Northeast Washington, North Idaho, and the West Kootenays of British Columbia.
The Loop represents around 350 members, aiming to connect a network of towns, including Bonners Ferry, Sandpoint, Newport, Metaline Falls, Creston, Nelson, and Salmo, all of which rely on seamless cross-border travel to support tourism, small businesses, and cultural exchange.
The Loop itself is a 450 kilometre (280 mile) scenic drive that encircles the Selkirk Mountains in Washington, Idaho and British Columbia.
“Our region thrives on the friendships and economic ties that span both sides of the border,” said Carla Ahern, Chair of the International Selkirk Loop Board of Directors.
“For generations, our communities have welcomed visitors from both nations, fostering not just economic prosperity but also the deep sense of kinship that has defined U.S.-Canada relations for over 200 years.”
The letter highlights the significant role tourism plays in sustaining local economies, particularly in rural areas where cross-border visitors contribute to restaurants, lodging providers, outdoor recreation, and small businesses.
Recent discussions on potential tariffs and trade restrictions have raised concerns that these barriers could weaken the vital tourism industry and harm local livelihoods.
“The economic well-being of our border communities depends on an open and cooperative relationship between our two countries,” Ahern added.
“Trade disputes and travel restrictions threaten not only our businesses but also the generations of good-neighborly trust and collaboration that have existed here for centuries.”
The association also encourages ongoing dialogue between government leaders, tourism stakeholders, and local businesses to protect and enhance the economic and cultural relationships that sustain the region.
A copy of the open letter has been sent to key Congressional and Senate representatives in Idaho and Washington State, as well as to the Member of Parliament representing the West Kootenays region of British Columbia.
The organization in currently surveying its members to gather the full impact, positive or negative, with the current economic situation.
For more information about the International Selkirk Loop and upcoming initiatives, please visit selkirkloop.org.
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