Farms play a vital role in diversifying income sources for farmers and helps revitalize rural economies by generating additional revenue. It allows farmers to earn income beyond traditional agricultural practices. As more visitors engage in farm tours, pick-your-own fruit programs, or other agritourism activities, local businesses also benefit from increased patronage. By opening their doors to the public, farms educate visitors about agriculture. People gain insights into farming practices, food production, and rural life. Public awareness about sustainable land use practices and the importance of preserving agricultural heritage grows through agritourism experiences. Agriculture remains North Carolina’s biggest economic workforce driver, while feeding, fueling and clothing people in the USA and around the world. Farm land makes up 8.1 million acres of our state’s land. Agritourism is a win win for farmers and the public as it increases farm income, reduces debt and puts away money for the future, while teaching the public responsibility of agriculture practices and promotes farm products and increases sales. Locally grown food and products is a bonus for all. On April 25th the Lincolnton Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce held the event “Agritourism- the Significant Financial Effects to State and Local Economies” at the beautiful Woodmill Winery in Vale, NC. Speaker Ann Savage, Tourism Extension Associate of the Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management spoke on how agritourism is a significant economic footprint in North Carolina by providing jobs and contributing to the state’s revenue. Savage spoke about the importance of agritourism. “North Carolina is known for tourism and agriculture. What better way to ‘marry’ these two together as they make a great combination. In recent years public interest has increased as people are more aware of where their food comes from. It also helps the farmer as it attracts local dollars to stay in the community and brings awareness and the importance of generational family owned farms that highlights heritage.” Savage encouraged farmers to start small; maybe with a stand on their farm, hayrides, corn mazes, and then tours, festivals and farm to table dinners. Tanya Binafif, County Extension Director and 4-H Youth Development Agent spoke of the benefits of their office and information that their office has to offer at the Lincoln County level. She encouraged folks to go to their website Lincoln County Center | N.C. Cooperative Extension (ncsu.edu) . Binafif adds, “We are another good resource here locally here in Lincoln County.” Dean Joanne Matz of Gaston College (Lincoln Campus), spoke of a new CPP Pathway starting in the Fall of 2024. Matz explains, “We are so excited to offer a new program called The Foundation of Agricultural Technology, which is a curriculum that focuses on the study of biomolecular structures, functions, and processes specific to plant and plant substances and a basic understanding of livestock production practices. Students will be exposed to the livestock industry, plant production schedules, and implications for strategic management decisions. The pathway is open to College Now students and will be offered in alignment with the LCST class schedule.” Savage concluded how agritourism and North Carolina is ripe for new farms. “I encourage local folks to download the Visit NC Lincoln County Farms app. The NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has launched the Visit NC Farms app for free to connect residents and visitors with local agriculture experiences across North Carolina. I would love to see more farms listed on the map for Lincoln County.” The evening highlighted the multifaceted importance of farming, from nourishing populations to driving economic growth and supporting sustainable development.
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