Tourism has long been a vital part of Kentucky's economy.  From sporting events such as the Kentucky Derby to natural attractions like Mammoth Cave, out of state travelers and Kentuckians alike enjoy what our Commonwealth has to offer.  It is no secret that agriculture, like those venues, contributes greatly to the state economy.  What is not fully capitalized on, however, is the connection agriculture can play within tourism.

Agricultural tourism, or agritourism as it is sometimes phrased, is a fast growing component of Kentucky's niche of unique destinations.  As Cooperative Extension Service (CES) personnel, agents and associates have a unique opportunity to help farmers explore the options of expanding into agritourism and subsequently teach them about emerging trends within the industry.  

The 2018 Kentucky Fruit and Vegetable Conference held on January 8th and 9th in Lexington was one such opportunity.  As the Community Outreach Coordinator for Kentucky State University CES and also operator of one the states early agritourism destinations, I was selected to share not only the story of my farm but in so doing, elaborate on activities, events and strategies that can be adapted to work at countless other farms by numerous other like-minded entrepreneurial spirits.

Over 50 conference attendees selected the January 9th agritourism session as one of their educational opportunities.  During my part of the joint presentation with another area farmer, topics such as insurance requirements, marketing strategies, ride and amusement certifications, concession stipulations, record keeping software innovations, recreational attraction ideas, purchasing options and of course production techniques were addressed.  

The broad spectrum audience varied from beginning farmers to current vegetable growers and included males and females from a diverse ethnic and racial representation.  Also among the attendees was an Amish delegation that operate one of the states produce auctions.  Post presentation conversations with KDA staff, Kentucky Farm Bureau Certified Roadside Market Association representatives and limited resource minority farmers paved the way for continued extension work in the area of agritoursim education.  

Agricultural tourism will continue to grow in the future and Kentucky State University, as an innovative partner in the Cooperative Extension system, will emerge at the forefront of this worthwhile endeavor.  By providing resources to and sharing knowledge with interested farmers, community service will extend to citizens across the Commonwealth as they ultimately interact with our farmer base.  Exploration of agritorism has already begun, but the ride is far from over and Kentucky State University will play a leading role in the journey.