ND tourism increases by $927M since '02

The North Dakota's tourism director says the state's tourism industry grew by $927 million after the 2002 launch of an advertising campaign highlighting the state's legendary figures and potential for adventure.

Tourism Director Sara Otte Coleman says the North Dakota Legendary brand is in its 10th year and helped create more awareness of North Dakota and what it has to offer.

Advertising has featured Theodore Roosevelt, Lewis and Clark, and Sakakawea. The brand also has focused on North Dakota's scenery, culture and adventures.

A North Dakota State University study says nonresident spending grew from just more than $3.5 billion in 2002 to about $4.5 billion in 2010.

Since 2002, the total investment in the Legendary advertising campaign was $17 million.