Agritourism is becoming an increasingly popular way for farmers and ranchers looking to diversify their business and make extra money.
You may have never heard of agritourism, but if you’ve ever visited a pumpkin patch, a corn maze or a winery, then you’re an agritourist.
More people are seeking out the experience, which creates new liabilities for farmers and ranchers as they invite strangers onto their property. And then there’s the personality question. Who on the farm has the skills—and patience—to work with the public?
“Not all families have someone like that,” said Colorado Department of Agriculture Spokesperson Wendy White. “So you really do have to identify whether or not there’s someone in the family who’s willing to take the lead and make this work.”
The all-day workshop will discuss these topics and more in Fairplay on Tuesday. The event is expected to draw producers from across the state, as well as neighboring Nebraska and New Mexico. White says in 2006 the total economic impact of agritourism was $2.2 billion dollars.
To register, or for more information, visit www.coloradoagritourism.com.
