Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers has proclaimed September 21-October 2 as Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Week, recognizing the growing impact of agritourism on the state's economy and culture.
Agritourism refers to the practice of using farms to attract visitors for educational, recreational, or entertainment purposes. In Wisconsin, agritourism activities include petting zoos, hayrides, corn mazes, pumpkin patches, winery tours, and more.
According to the Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association (WATA), agritourism generated an estimated $949 million in economic activity in 2017, supporting over 435,000 jobs. The industry is also growing rapidly, with tourism to Wisconsin farms increasing by 21% in 2021.
Governor Evers noted that the public is more interested than ever in meeting farmers and visiting farms. “Families and individuals are seeking out the experiences only working farms can provide — relaxation, entertainment, education, food and adventure.”
The WATA is a non-profit organization that promotes agritourism in Wisconsin. The association provides resources and support to farmers who want to start or expand their agritourism businesses.
Sheila Everhart, WATA Executive Director, stated that their website makes it easy to find an afternoon or weekend of ag ventures. “Our interactive map helps visitors locate petting zoos, event barns, wineries, you-pick orchards and berry patches, pasture walks, corn mazes, tree farms, pumpkin patches, and more.”
The Wisconsin Department of Tourism also supports agritourism. The department offers grants and marketing assistance to help farmers develop and promote their agritourism businesses.
Everhart noted that many small and medium-scale Wisconsin family farms need the revenue that on-farm tourism generates. "We must continue to streamline our regulatory environment so that agricultural tourism and innovation can flourish, and help our farmers, ranchers, and foresters meet the growing demand for agricultural education, experiences, food, feed, fuel and fiber.”
Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Week is a great opportunity to learn about the state's farms and the importance of agritourism to the economy. There are many events and activities planned throughout the week, so be sure to check out the WATA website for more information.
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Categories: Wisconsin, Business