Extreme heat, intense rains and droughts, and other climate impacts have put a dent in the number of people willing to visit farms this summer.
A new set of fact sheets provides comprehensive insights into the demographics of U.S. farms that offer agritourism activities or sell food directly to consumers or both. The fact sheets are available for all 50 states and are intended to help local decision makers, farmers and the organizations that support them in their efforts to strengthen and expand agritourism enterprises.
Research cited by Schmidt shows agritourism promotes knowledge about agriculture, strengthens local food systems, and contributes toward conserving land and agricultural and heritage resources.
Agri-tourism Helps Protect Revenues Against Low Commodity Prices and Bad Weather
A team of researchers led by a Penn State agricultural economist will receive $500,000 over three years to study agritourism in the United States and to develop research-based information and guidance for farmers looking to diversify their incomes through agritourism activities.
Pennsylvania Researchers Join Florida in Examining Industry With $500,000 Grant
When Crop Prices Sink, Produce Soars --- Farmers Charge Customers to Launch Corn, Apples From Cannons
Such is the world of agritourism and agritainment in the Lehigh Valley, in which area farms invite the public to spend time in revenue-earning activities ranging from pick-your-own apples, pumpkins and Christmas trees, to enjoying corn mazes, hayrides, petting zoos and even apple-shooting cannons.
