Elizabeth Sodja
coordinator
GNAR Initiative
Elizabeth Sodja, MNR, MCMP, is the Program Coordinator for the Gateway & Natural Amenity Region (GNAR) Initiative at Utah State University (USU) Extension. She has a decade of communications, education, and community outreach experience, and has worked with federal, state, and local government agencies. Before joining GNAR, she worked for USU’s Center for Community Engagement, and the National Park Service.
Session(s):
Short-Term Rentals, Long-Term Gains & Trailblazing: Long-Range Regional Recreation Planning »
2025 APA UT Spring Conference, May 9, 2025 8:00 amThis session gives an overview of a new resource and online course from USU's Gateway & Natural Amenity Region Initiative: “Understanding and Managing Short-Term Rentals: Maximize benefits, minimize impacts.” This course is designed to help community leaders, planners, and officials understand and respond to STRs and their impacts in ways that are both realistic and responsive to community needs and desires. Covering policy, regulation, enforcement, and economic benefits, it provides practical insights from gateway communities across Utah and the West. In the follow up session The Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation is embarking on an exciting initiative to conduct long-range regional recreation planning! An effort like this has never been done before, but with recreation being a large economic driver and a vital part to Utahn's quality of life, planning efforts are essential.
Come Get Dirty with Us! Laying the Groundwork for a GNAR Initiative Training Program »
2023 Spring Conference, May 11, 2023 2:50 pmThe Gateway + Natural Amenity Region (GNAR) Initiative exists to help western GNAR communities thrive and preserve the things that make them special. Join the GNAR Initiative team for an interactive session, where we’ll be showcasing our latest resources available to gateway and rural Utah communities. Our team will also be soliciting thoughts and feedback on piloting a GNAR online training program. Come join us and help shape resources for your community!
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