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(click here for directory of past newsletters)
November 2005
I recently participated in a conference in Murphys, California with a goal of developing a tourism agenda for a twenty-two county region to include Arts, Heritage and Agriculture.
The goal of the meeting was not only to develop working relationships with a diverse group of people, but to develop clear steps to move the agenda forward.
Reflecting on this meeting and all that we accomplished, I have written an article that I’d like to share with you. It will be appearing in Fruit Grower News in December.
Too often I hear farmers complain that the “state isn’t spending enough money” to promote us - well, it’s a two-way street. We need to be part of the process, and to assist the state and others in developing the agenda.
Here's the article:
After speaking in ten states and in Canada this year, I want to share with you what I am seeing and how you (as the farmer) can be more involved.
What I’m seeing is that the new hot “niche” product for the tourism industry is–agritourism.  Yes, finally the farms, ranches and wineries are becoming recognized for what we offer, and are now considered an attraction worthy of promotion both locally and by our states.
I’ve written in this column before about making the tourism connection, but now, more than ever, this is very important.
It’s time you get off the tractor, get off the farm or ranch this winter and learn what is being done by your local and state officials. You need to have a voice in the development of this very important initiative.
Click here to see how you can make a difference.
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