Growing Agritourism

The term agritourism has been bouncing around for quite a while now and is defined as “an enterprise at a working farm or woodland, ranch or agricultural plant conducted for the enjoyment and benefit of visitors that generates supplemental income for the owner.” Agritourism in the United States is starting to become a lucrative business. First started as on-site produce sales, u-picks and hay rides, agritourism has branched out to include farm and ranch tours, wine tasting events, gourmet food shops, horse riding lessons, and cow or goat milking. Of course, opening a farm to the public involves more than just putting up a sign one day and charging admission the next. Public restrooms, refreshment facilities and shaded seating are all necessities. And above all, it needs to offer an experience that people will enjoy. While most of the economy has suffered over the last several years, agriculture has remained strong, and ag economists forecast that agriculture will continue to improve and remain strong in the future; giving agritourism the strong foundation it needs to grow and thrive.