Article

Growing our Generation enewsletter features insights and ideas directly from Ohio’s young farmers and food and agricultural professionals. Sign up to get this e-letter sent directly to your inbox once a month.

Agritourism is one the most unique ways to share the story of agriculture because it is a direct link to consumers. It is an opportunity for a farmer or business owner to be “boots on the ground” with consumers to answer questions or provide information regarding different aspects of the industry while showcasing their passion and heritage. 

Owning an agritourism business comes with challenges and rewards, and sometimes they are unexpected. Unfortunately, this was a year of drought for Ohio farmers across the state. Hear from Bethany Schappacher, a Clinton County Farm Bureau member and one of the owners of Schappacher Farms, a 50-acre pumpkin farm featuring a corn maze, hayrides, fall treats and other family activities on the importance of risk management in agritourism. 

My background

My name is Bethany Schappacher, and my husband AJ and I, along with my in-laws, Butch and Sherry, own and operate Schappacher Farms. We are a 50-acre pumpkin farm located in Wilmington. Not only do we offer pick-your-own pumpkins, but we also offer a free corn maze, free hayride, fall treats, and other family fun activities during the months of September and October. We pride ourselves in being an affordable fall destination for families because we do not charge an admission fee or other fees for activities. We think it’s important for folks within our community and beyond to be able to experience the farm life and farm atmosphere without having to pay an inflated price. I serve on the Clinton County Farm Bureau board as our vice-president currently. I’ve been on the board for five years now. 

Getting started in agritourism

My in-laws started this business almost 30 years ago in what used to be Warren County. As the availability of farm ground dwindled, Butch decided to start offering pumpkins and other fall goods as a way to supplement his grain crop farming. Once they moved from their previous farm in Mason, we came across this property for sale in Wilmington. We decided to get back into the pumpkin business and start fresh at a new location. It has grown from a roadside stand into our large operation. 

Impacts from the drought

We were fortunate enough to have a great pumpkin crop this year actually. We had two specific varieties that did not do well, but overall we had a good growing season given the circumstances. 

Our corn though is another story! Like many, our corn was very dry/brittle, and we experienced Hurricane Helen winds in late September. Our field corn, including our corn maze, was blown over due to the high winds. We unfortunately had to close our maze for the season since it was no longer walkable. 

Managing risk in agritourism

The biggest risk we see is opening up our private property (which our primary residence is on) to the public. Not only are there safety concerns, but we are also depending on the folks who visit our property to take care of it and not litter, not be destructive, etc. We’ve been lucky enough to not have any major issues, but we also take a lot of preventive measures. Our advice is to not just assume the general public understands the farm atmosphere/dangers like we do. 

Advice for someone looking to start an agritourism business

Ask yourself if you are passionate enough about the business to share it with your community for years to come. I think it’s important for agritourism businesses to realize the positive impact they have on their community and to understand that many families/people will rely on them for years to come. Agritourism bridges the gap between farmers and the general public, and I think we have a duty to continue that relationship for generations to come. 

Conclusion 

While operating a business of this kind can be challenging, the reward of being part of the solution to helping consumers understand the importance of agriculture is much greater than the challenges and risks for most agritourism business owners. 

YAP Conference, opportunities, competitive events 

2025 Winter Leadership Experience: Embracing Your Season  

New this year, the conference will be open to members of all ages! Childcare will be provided to children who are registered. Members will have the opportunity to hear from industry professionals about current issues in agriculture and network with like-minded individuals. For more information and to register, click here.

AFBF FUSION Conference 

Applications are open for the 2025 American Farm Bureau FUSION Conference scholarships. Five participants will be selected to attend the Young Farmers & Ranchers conference March 7-10 in Denver. Participants will have the opportunity to network with like-minded individuals across the nation and sharpen their leadership skills. Applications are due Dec. 20. For more information or to apply, click here. 

Competitive Events 

Applications for the 2025 Excellence in Agriculture and Outstanding Young Farmer Award are due Dec. 20. For more information or to apply, click here.