Visit Moffat County recently announced that its director, Tom Kleinschnitz, was presented the Outstanding Colorado Tourism Champion Award at the 2024 Colorado Governor’s Tourism Conference in Crested Butte.

The award recognizes an individual who has worked in the tourism industry for over five years and demonstrates outstanding leadership, creativity and dedication to enhancing the tourism industry. The conference, which took place on Sept. 26, hosted over 400 tourism professionals, community leaders and stakeholders from across the state.

“I truly appreciate the support I have received from the Visit Moffat County Board of Directors during my nearly 8-year tenure with this position,” Kleinschnitz said in a statement. “I am a proud Moffat County resident, and I am very interested in continuing to lead our community through the many opportunities in front of us.”

Kleinschnitz’s career began in Craig with Adventure Bound River Expeditions in 1971 and has evolved throughout the decades. In 1983, he purchased Adventure Bound and has operated the company for 33 years. He has also served the public in many forums including on the Board of Directors of the Colorado Tourism Office, the America Outdoor Association and many other natural resource and tourism related boards.

“We are thrilled to see Tom recognized for his contributions to the tourism industry,” said John Husband, chairman of Visit Moffat County, in a statement. “His commitment to leading our organization exemplifies the spirit of hard work, dedication, and professionally representing our community, his leadership helps drive our local tourism efforts forward.”