Tourism has grown into a major industry throughout the West, and continues to bring people to Arizona.

It can also have profound effects on the environment if not carefully managed.

Although tourism can bring economic benefits to a community, it can also lead to environmental damage and overcrowding.

Industry leaders have begun to examine ways to balance local needs, ecosystems and large numbers of visitors.

Kelly Bricker, director of Arizona State University's Center for Sustainable Tourism, said rural communities should protect the resources that draw visitors to the region.

"And especially in and around gateway communities, that are adjacent to our incredible natural resources that we have in Arizona and other places in the West," Bricker said.

She said a number of Western communities, including Sedona, have created plans that help address tourism and sustainability.