Beginning in 1965, as representatives of state campground associations met
to plan the program of the Eastern Conference on Camping Areas, they would quite naturally
share with each other their concerns and problems. It was thus that the concept of an
"association of associations" was developed. Further discussion brought about
the creation of the COUNCIL OF NORTHEAST CAMPGROUND ASSOCIATIONS (CNCA) in 1976.
The CNCA
had as its purpose the provision of a forum for the exchange of information and ideas and
to explore and implement programs of mutual benefit to state associations and their
campgrounds on a regional basis. In 1981 the CNCA became the NORTHEAST REGION, NCOA. In
1985, the name of the Northeast Region was changed to the NORTHEAST CAMPGROUND
ASSOCIATION, INC. At that time, the bylaws were revised and strengthened to provide for a
wider range of services to the campgrounds of the northeast. From 1965 to 1990 the
association was under the leadership of Professor Gerald Harrison serving as its Executive
Director and a dedicated Board of Directors which included the presidents as
representatives from each of the member associations. In the Fall of 1990, David Tetrault
was selected to serve as the NCA Executive Director.
The
NCA encompasses all ten northeast states which include
Connecticut, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New
Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and
Vermont. A ten member Board includes representatives from each
of the participating state associations plus the past NCA President
which is thus serving a ten state geographical area.
Since
many of the concerns and problems of the campground industry are not restricted to state
boundaries, it behooves all, for their mutual benefit, to plan and work together on both
the regional and national level.
Campgrounds
cannot operate in a vacuum. While they compete with each other for the camper, they must
cooperate with each other for their mutual security. It is very sincerely anticipated that
the NORTHEAST CAMPGROUND ASSOCIATION will prove its value to all of the campgrounds as it
grows in strength and stature. |