The growing season is in full swing: new calves are running across the pastures, the first CSA boxes have been delivered, corn is knee-high, and vegetables are growing more than an inch a day.
This year, most of us have been stressed and isolated by COVID-19, and we’re eager to enjoy the sights, smells, and open spaces of nearby farms. Visiting working farms – agritourism – is a rapidly growing interest all across the country. What does the term encompass? How can farmers enter this growing field? And how can you find a farm to visit for a couple of hours or a weekend?
This three-part series features Sheila Everhart, President of the Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association (WATA). Although the focus is Wisconsin, there’s lots of information for farmers and food lovers in any state.
In Part 1, Sheila defines agritourism and describes how WATA provides useful info to farmers, advocates for agritourism regulations and policies, and helps the public find farms and activities throughout the state.
Part 2 is for farmers: the questions and issues to consider before launching an agricultural tourism activity.
Part 3 is for individuals and families searching for a farm to visit. How to find a nearby farm, and how to prepare for a successful visit.
Enjoy these informative conversations, and visit a farm soon!
