The 2019 International Plowing Match (IPM) seems to be the gift that keeps on giving for West Nipissing.
According to a report that was given to council, the IPM in Verner attracted 81,571 visitors over the five day event. Of those, approximately 71.4 per cent came from over 40 kilometres away and 35 per cent of them stayed at least one night in the area.
The average non-local visitor spent $59 on food and beverages, and $78 on merchandise. Total spending by non-locals was calculated at $4,870,744, with accommodations and camping making up $1,429,458 of that figure. With those numbers, the impact of the plowing match is expected to be felt for years to come, according to Mayor Joanne Savage.
“The first time the IPM was hosted in northern Ontario was in Earlton in 2009,” Savage said. “When you talk to the elected officials and people residing in that area, they say that 10 years after the event was hosted they still benefit and still see many benefits to their community because of the success of the IPM that was hosted in their backyard.”
“The size of the event, the magnitude of the event, the attraction of visitors to the event and being the largest outdoor rural event across North America, it would have a major impact on our municipality and the entire northern region,” she continued.
According to Savage, a big component of the IPM being as successful as it became, rests on the shoulders of its volunteers.
“Our amazing volunteers were the superstars,” she said. “Our visitors were extremely overwhelmed by the warm welcome by all these volunteers. The IPM board, along with the municipality will be organizing a community celebration to recognize all the wonderful volunteers, sponsors and partners.”
“As identified by the IPM chair, Neil Fox, the big reveal of all the successes and all the financials will be provided with these volunteers and sponsors at that event,” she added.
During the lead-up to the event, visitors found the excitement to be palpable with the signs and decorations put up around the community.
“The community engagement was phenomenal with over 1,300 volunteers, many partnerships and over half a million dollars in sponsorships,” Savage explained. “We saw the commitment in West Nipissing with people getting on board and beautifying their area and showcasing their pride.”
“It’s quite a successful story,” she continued. “Overall the experience was remarkable and is something that we will remember and be part of the history of West Nipissing for years to come.”