News Summary
Agritourism is rapidly growing in New York, generating $55 million annually. With over 30,000 farms, particularly in the Finger Lakes, it provides unique experiences that attract both locals and tourists. Establishments like Lazy Acre Alpacas and Shortsville Reindeer Farm are highlighted as examples of the trend, which not only preserves farming lifestyles but also boosts local economies. Despite challenges such as reduced farmland and climate pressures, agritourism offers promising economic resilience and community connection.
Agritourism is Flourishing in New York State
Agritourism is rapidly evolving into a significant industry in New York, generating an impressive $55 million annually. With over 30,000 farms across the state, many of which are nestled in the picturesque Finger Lakes region, agritourism businesses are enhancing their appeal to city dwellers and visitors alike.
One noteworthy establishment, Lazy Acre Alpacas, located in Bloomfield, Ontario County, has been operational for 15 years and attracts visitors seeking authentic farm experiences. This trend is further underscored by Jacob Maslyn from the Cornell Cooperative Extension, who points out that the Finger Lakes region is quickly becoming a popular tourist destination, blending the charm of rural life with entertainment and learning.
The agritourism landscape includes a myriad of activities, from visiting farm stands and livestock tours to engaging in family-friendly attractions like corn mazes and pumpkin patches. Notably, Shortsville Reindeer Farm, which was launched in 2017 by Mike Schaertl, began as an effort to keep reindeer as pets. However, the farm has since gained significant attention, especially during the holiday season, drawing numerous visitors. To further promote agritourism, Schaertl plans to welcome tourism officials on June 3 for discussions on its extensive benefits.
The growth of agritourism in New York plays a crucial role in preserving local farming lifestyles at a time when many farms are facing closure. In the Finger Lakes, the agricultural sector achieved farm sales exceeding $2.3 billion in 2022. Since 2012, agritourism has facilitated a remarkable 78% increase in farm income throughout the state, emphasizing its importance in boosting financial sustainability for many local farms.
However, there are challenges present within this industry. Farmland in the Finger Lakes has diminished by 5% between 2017 and 2022, illustrating the pressures that farming practices face, including market volatility and climate-related issues. Despite these obstacles, agritourism offers a viable path towards economic resilience in the region.
The impending leadership transition at the Finger Lakes Visitors Connection marks another crucial development for agritourism. Alicia M. Quinn is set to take the helm as president and CEO on May 29. Quinn brings valuable experience from her background in New Jersey’s tourism division and involvement in agritourism, aligning with the sector’s growth trajectory.
The impact of tourism in the Finger Lakes region is unmistakable. In 2023, tourism spending in Ontario County reached an impressive $341 million, reflecting an 11.7% increase from the prior year. Tourism-related jobs account for 9% of the employment base in the region, signifying the critical role tourism plays in local economic health. Overall, the total economic impact of tourism in the Finger Lakes amounted to a substantial $4.382 billion in 2023.
As agritourism continues to evolve, the focus remains on offering enriching experiences to visitors while sustaining the farming community in New York. The emergence of unique farm attractions underscores a pivotal shift that not only bolsters local economies but also connects people with the agricultural heritage of the region.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Spectrum Local News: Agritourism in Upstate New York
- Google Search: Agritourism
- PennLive: Finger Lakes Wineries
- Google Scholar: Agritourism New York
- Finger Lakes 1: Agricultural Sales Challenges
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Finger Lakes
- Democrat and Chronicle: Alicia Quinn Leadership
- Google News: Ontario County tourism
