Last in the series on the amazing farm-to-table movement is a blog on the ever-evolving and broad aspects of Agritourism.
According to the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Agritourism is one of the fastest-growing segments of the agriculture industry. This growth can be attributed in part to the increasing interest in buying and eating locally grown products. People are also more interested in healthy food choices including produce grown on our Kentucky farms. Current numbers for the state of Kentucky show a 30% increase in Agritourism revenue. This number reached 8 billion dollars last year. That’s Billion, with a b.
Agritourism is defined as “The act of visiting a working farm or any agricultural, horticultural, or agribusiness operation for the purpose of enjoyment, education or active involvement in the activities of the farm or operation.”
Some examples of Agritourism include: Retreat centers, farm vacations, mazes, seasonal festivities, historical re-enactments, cook-offs, winery/distillery tours, pony rides, barn dances, hayrides, park fishing, nature trails, horse farm tours, produce stands, special events outdoors, i.e.; Weddings, family reunions and so much more. Who knew?!
Imagine forty years ago, telling farmers in rural Kentucky, the ones who are now actively, profitably involved in Agritourism that they were going to give up raising tobacco and instead, have a petting zoo to help sustain the farm. One can probably also imagine their response.
However, with the consistent, determined backing of Agriculture groups all over the state, in literally every county of the Commonwealth, these changes, coupled with a forecast for active, sustained Agritourism have helped some of these “radical” ideas blossom into wonderful, promising realities for many farmers.
The Department of Agriculture in the state of Kentucky has so heavily promoted the “Kentucky Proud” movement that it has literally become a way of life in many rural and urban areas. Not only has the attitude of the consumer changed but the attitude of the farmer has changed as well. Hard times, as well as an ever-changing economy, have people thinking and acting in more deliberate, conscientious ways. This movement and the lessons learned from it lend itself well to a very old, very wise Chinese Proverb: Give a man a fish you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.
Visit kentuckyfarmsarefun.com for more information on local Agritourism.