With rural migration continuing and many rural communities seeing an increase in their population, agritourism is one way farmers can open new revenue streams, and you do not have to look far for customers.
According to OSU Extension’s Audrey Comeford, “A lot of the agritourism customers, the majority of them, were within 50 miles of the farm and then we’re looking at the folks coming from farther away— 19% is coming from more than 50 miles, and 15% are the overnight visits.”
In the latest Ag Census, just 1.5% of U.S. farmers said that they do some kind of agritourism.
Despite the small amount, they bring in a lot of money. USDA shows that in 2022, farmers and ranchers brought in more than $1.2 billion in agritourism. That is a 12% jump from 2017.
Texas leads the pack, followed by California, Colorado, and Hawaii.
Researchers found that farms near populated counties earned the most, as well as specialty crop operations.
From barns to show rings, producers and students say that livestock events offer economic opportunity and life lessons. Let’s take a look at some shows across the southeast in Georgia, Virginia and Louisiana.
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Held each year in Mercedes, the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show remains a cornerstone event for the region — blending education, competition, and community, even during challenging times for agriculture.
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Renowned farm broadcaster and friend of RFD-TV, Orion Samuelson, will undoubtedly be remembered for many things, but most of all, his work as a champion of America’s farmers and ranchers will define his legacy.
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Vanessa Wood shares more about Ag Women Connect, the importance of uplifting women in agriculture, and upcoming projects designed to highlight stories across rural America.
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Diversification is critical as conservation reshapes rural economies.
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