News Summary
Agritourism is emerging as a significant revenue generator for New York farmers, bringing in approximately $55 million annually. The Finger Lakes region is particularly active, with diverse activities drawing visitors seeking farm experiences. Events like those at reindeer farms and alpaca farms promote community engagement and sustainable practices, despite challenges in maintaining farmland. This growing trend highlights the importance of agritourism in boosting farm income and fostering connections between agriculture and tourism.
Bloomfield, NY – Agritourism is rapidly becoming a vital source of revenue for farmers in New York, with the industry generating approximately $55 million annually as farms diversify their income streams. With more than 30,000 farms across the state, the trend is particularly prominent in the Finger Lakes region, where numerous agritourism activities attract visitors seeking authentic farm experiences.
The Finger Lakes has seen a surge in popularity, with local farmers offering a variety of activities that include farm stands, livestock tours, corn mazes, and pumpkin patches. In a recent development, Mike Schaertl, who established a reindeer farm in Shortsville in 2017, has limited hours of operation primarily during the holiday season, yet his farm has gained significant attention. This achievement is supplemented by an upcoming event scheduled for June 3 at Schaertl’s farm, which aims to promote the benefits of agritourism.
Mark Gilbride founded Lazy Acre Alpacas in Bloomfield, Ontario County, around 15 years ago to cater to city dwellers looking for immersive farm experiences. Agritourism has helped boost farm income across New York state by 78% since 2012, providing a creative solution for local farmers aiming to make the most of their agricultural assets.
As reported, the Finger Lakes region leads New York state in agricultural sales, exceeding $2.3 billion in 2022. The region accounts for 46% of the total land in its nine-county area. Despite this success, the area faces challenges, with farmland decreasing by 5% from 2017 to 2022, partly due to land being designated for solar electric generation, which has involved 1,728 acres within agricultural districts.
Community and Sustainability Initiatives
In 2023, the environmental coalition FLX Craft Beverage was formed to advocate for sustainable practices and protect local tourism. This emerging coalition addresses significant issues affecting the region’s crops, including landfill expansions and the impacts of climate change. The Billsboro Winery, which was established in 2000 and became the first winery in Geneva, NY, has also played a role in promoting sustainability. Since acquiring the winery in 2007, the Alipertis have focused on producing dry, European-style wines while developing eco-friendly initiatives.
Community Engagement and Scholarships
Despite the modest financial outcomes from agritourism, many local farmers find value in the rewarding interactions with visitors. The importance of community engagement has been highlighted through initiatives such as the New York Farm Bureau Agricultural Youth Scholarship program, which recently awarded scholarships to two high school seniors. Jacob Ziehm received $3,000 for his upcoming studies at Michigan State University, while Holly Niefergold was awarded $2,000 for her plans at SUNY Cobleskill.
Conclusion
Agritourism is clearly becoming an integral part of New York’s agricultural landscape, providing farmers with new pathways for income while connecting them with the public. As local initiatives promote sustainability and educational opportunities, the relationship between agriculture and tourism continues to deepen in the Finger Lakes and beyond.
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Additional Resources
- Spectrum Local News: Agritourism a Growing Business in Upstate New York
- Wikipedia: Agritourism
- PennLive: Finger Lakes Wineries Cheered by Successes
- Google Search: Finger Lakes Wineries Sustainability
- FingerLakes1: Finger Lakes Region Leads New York in Agricultural Sales
- Google Scholar: Finger Lakes Agricultural Sales
- Ithaca Journal: Open Farms Days Offer Agricultural Adventures
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Agricultural Tourism
- FL Times: We Do Have Everything to Lose
- Google News: Agritourism New York
