Adding a new enterprise such as farmer's market will add another source of income to a farm, and diversification is an ideal risk management strategy. Second, agri-tourism attracts customers to farms. Adding a picnic site, playground and a canteen to an existing U-pick operation, or having family hay rides to go and cut Christmas trees on a farm, will not only draw families to your farm, but they will stay longer if comfortable and interesting attractions are provided. Third, agri-tourism contributes to the stability of the agriculture industry of the province. Fourth, agri-tourism is an excellent means of supporting rural communities and businesses.
Tourists bring in dollars to local businesses that keep farming communities alive and prosperous.
And fifth, agri-tourism is an opportunity to increase agricultural awareness and education among the public, and promote agricultural products. Partnering of tourism and agriculture sectors will help create and strengthen rural economies. Expansion into other agri-tourism enterprises could be a lucrative opportunity for farmers. The study will be completed by December 1998. Please contact us if you are interested in this training opportunity.