To encourage tourism and economic development based on the natural and cultural resources of the Tennessee Highlands region, Tennessee Parks and Greenways Foundation worked with local communities to develop a sustainable tourism plan for the three counties. The plan aims to promote a sustainable industry that would make a low impact on the environment and local culture while helping to generate future employment for local people. The aim of sustainable tourism is to ensure that development brings a positive experience for local residents, people employed in businesses that benefit from tourism, and the tourists themselves.