JoAnn Kirkland is researching the effects of short-term rentals in ski resorts, focusing on Park City. With over 15 years in the industry, she aims to fill a significant gap in research regarding these mountain communities. Kirkland, a doctoral candidate at Heriot-Watt University's Edinburgh School of Business, is pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration with an emphasis on responsible tourism. Her background includes extensive experience in ski towns, having worked in various roles across North America, including notable locations like Whistler and Aspen. Kirkland's research investigates the social, economic, and environmental implications of short-term rentals. She notes that while many studies tend to focus on urban areas, ski resorts have unique challenges due to their seasonal nature and reliance on tourism. For instance, these communities often deal with limited housing and fluctuating visitor numbers, making the impacts of short-term rentals more pronounced. The study will assess community identity, neighborhood cohesion, quality of life, and issues such as noise and traffic. Economically, Kirkland aims to evaluate both the advantages—like extra income for homeowners and increased visitor capacity—and the challenges, including constraints on workforce housing. Environmentally, she will examine the capacity for growth in ski towns and how tourism affects local infrastructure and ecosystems. Kirkland is conducting surveys among municipal officials, tourism authorities, business owners, and rental hosts to gather diverse perspectives. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the different experiences of residents and visitors in ski towns. The goal is to provide actionable insights to policymakers and community leaders, aiding in better management of short-term rentals. Data collection is set to continue through the 2025-26 winter season, with findings intended for dissemination through conferences and workshops. Kirkland invites Park City residents and visitors to participate in her survey on short-term rentals, accessible at tinyurl.com/2s4fhwx8. The research aims to inform future discussions on tourism policy, enhancing community well-being in ski towns.