August 1, 2022 | Montpelier, VT - It’s the season to celebrate our farms and farmers. With the warmer weather, Vermonters and visitors get a chance to spend time closer to where their food is grown or produced. As I travel the state, I hear more and more about authentic encounters our tourists and neighbors are experiencing on Vermont’s farms. I am grateful for all our farmers who open their businesses up to the public during Open Farm Week (August 7th-14th). This model allows a working farm to generate supplemental income and gives visitors enjoyment and education.
Coming in late August and early September Vermont will host an International Workshop on Agritourism. It will take place in and around the Burlington area from August 30th to September 1st. This conference has been held around the world and Vermont is fortunate to have been chosen to host this this year’s workshop. It will bring together farmers, researchers, agricultural service providers, tourism experts, and others interested in agritourism to share their knowledge and experience. Vermont is ready to show the world how we do it and to learn from others. The conference will be held in person but there are also virtual options for those who cannot travel. To learn more and register to attend, please go to https://www.agritourismworkshop.com/
The Governor recently proclaimed August Agritourism Month highlighting the importance this industry plays in the Green Mountains. Here a few reasons why:
WHEREAS, agritourism programs spread the culture and knowledge of agriculture production while providing owners and operators opportunities to supplement their income and sustain practices; and
WHEREAS, agritourism programs provide authentic, immersive, hands-on experiences for visitors that support Vermont’s tourism brand; and
WHEREAS, the International Workshop on Agritourism provides a great opportunity to promote agritourism and help the community work together to create sustained success; and
WHEREAS, Vermont greatly benefits from agritourism, sharing our agricultural traditions, encouraging visitation and promoting Vermont products while supporting many local farms; and
WHEREAS, Vermont is happy to host the International Workshop on Agritourism and welcome many involved in agritourism throughout the world to our Green Mountains …”
Wishing all a great end of summer and hope you consider the opportunities agritourism may bring to your farm.
Anson Tebbetts, Secretary, Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets