Pioneer Region - Ashland, Medina and Wayne county Farm Bureaus
In conjunction with other civic organizations and agriculture agencies, Ashland, Medina and Wayne County Farm Bureaus sponsored a "Cultivating Agritourism Workshop" March 19 at Fisher Auditorium in Wooster. The workshop focused on helping farmers grow revenues and increase profits. Discussion topics explained to farm owners how alternative use of property leads to diversification and long-term sustainability of the rural way of life. Farm owners also were told of the expectations of the public regarding cleanliness, food service, physical operations, staff training, parking, restrooms, safety convenience, etc., when coming to a farm for an agritainment event. Tapping into agritourism – a fast growing trend – translates into profits for tourism professionals and farm families. Leading the workshop was Jane Eckert, an expert on agritourism and farm marketing. She hails from Illinois and one of the most successful entertainment farms in the country. "This workshop gave our farmers a rare look at the financial opportunities available by forging a partnership with their neighbors," said John Fitzpatrick, organization director for Ashland, Medina and Wayne counties. | |