Michigan State University Extension
Tourism Educational Materials - 33831715
06/06/02
Agritourism: Points to Consider
Cornell Cooperative Extension
Wayne County
1581 Route 88 North
Newark, NY 14513-9739
315-331-8415
FAX 315-331-8411
AGRITOURISM is your chance to turn your farm or farm
market into a fantastic adventure! This is your
opportunity to diversity and/or expand your business in
order to increase your income by attracting more
customers. You can successfully attract a diverse
consumer base by offering the public something unique
beyond the food they can bring back to their dinner table.
Agritourism is about marketing your products in a special
and innovative way that reflects you and your family as
individuals. Present your business as a way for the
public to escape daily routine, learn about agriculture,
and simply have fun for a day or a weekend!
IS A GUEST BUSINESS FOR US?
Social skills are a must. Visitors should be treated
as guests and extended unconditional friendliness and
hospitality to ensure their return.
Farm should be neat and clean for all to see and enjoy.
Farm should be in a good location, i.e., easy to find
and near an urban center or tourism area.
Farm should engage in safe, up-to-date farming
practices, and comply with federal, state and local
regulations.
WHO WILL VISIT?
Families
Church Groups
Youth Groups
School Children
Senior Citizens
Anyone looking for something to do with natural
surroundings in a structured setting.
WHAT KIND OF ACTIVITIES COULD WE OFFER?
Bed and Breakfast
Camping
Farm tours, exhibits, demonstrations
Farm museum
Farm vacations/resorts
Fee hunting/fishing/cross-country skiing/pond skating
Haunted House
Hay ride/sleight ride
Horseback riding/Hiking/Biking
Seasonal festivals (apple, sweet corn, music, crafts,
competitions)
Nature study/walks
Rural education center
Petting farm/zoo
Pick-Your-Own Operation
Gift/Craft/Antique Shop
Egg hunts
WHAT EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES EXIST ON OUR FARM?
Soil and water conservation
Proper animal treatment
Harvesting
Integrated Pest Management
Organic growing
Composting
New technology
HOW WILL VACATIONERS LEARN ABOUT OUR OPERATION?
Descriptive Brochure
Highway and Road signs
Bill Boards
Radio
Television
Newspaper/Pennysaver
Mailing Lists
Rochester Visitor's Association
Area travel guides
Train and Bus Stations
Hotels/Motels/Bed and Breakfasts
Chamber of Commerce
Libraries
WORD OF MOUTH
WHAT GOVERNMENTAL REGULATIONS SHOULD WE CONSIDER?
Zoning: contact county planning
Health regulations: contact county health department/NYS
Department of Agriculture and Markets
Zoo Permits: contact the Animal and Plant Health
Inspection Services (APHIS) of USDA
Sales Taxes: contact NYS Department of Tax and Finance
DO WE NEED INSURANCE?
Liability insurance is required for all visitor
operations.
WHAT ARE SOME OTHER REASONS WHY WE SHOULD START AN
AGRITOURISM OPERATION?
Expose the true agricultural lifestyle and what it
entails
Instill a greater appreciation for the work involved in
food production
Reinforce community relations
Offer hands-on, behind the scenes experience for
children
Present an educational opportunity for all ages
WHO SHOULD WE CONTACT FOR FURTHER INFORMATION?
County Cooperative Extension Agent
Soil Conservation Service
County Planning Department
Greater Rochester Visitor Association
Seaway Trail, Inc.
New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets
New York State Department of Economic Development
New York State Farmers Direct Marketing Association
New York State Hospitality and Tourism Association
Small Business Development Centers
RESOURCES
Agritourism in New York State, Farming Alternatives
Program, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853; 607/255-
9832
This information is for educational purposes only. References
to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not
mentioned. This information becomes public property upon
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