PROMOTING ECONOMIC VIABILITY OF SMALL FARMS WITH A REGIONAL FARM TOUR
Agricultural Economics & Community Development
Jennifer Smith
County Extension Agent, Hort
K-State Research & Extension
Lawrence
Abstract
Consumers learn about farms and farm practices firsthand as they visit farms during the annual 2-day Kaw Valley Farm Tour. Farmers have the opportunity to share their practices directly with consumers as well as promote and sell their farm products. \r\nSeven years since inception, the farm tour is averaging more than 2,000 attendees per year. Attendees are currently being surveyed to determine if education received while attending the farm tour changed their beliefs or behaviors regarding local agriculture. The farm tour is organized through a partnership between Cooperative Extension, a local Convention and Visitors’ Bureau, a food cooperative, and area farmers. The number of participating farms has grown from 14 to 24 and now encompasses a 5-county region. The diversity of farms has also grown and includes fruit, vegetable, and nut production; nursery/greenhouse production; apiaries; pumpkin patches; small-scale livestock, dairy, and fiber production; wineries; pumpkin patches; Christmas tree farms; and a conventional row crop operation.\r\nThe farm tour started with a small grant, but has since relied on ticket sales and minimal farm participation fees to become self-sustainable. The tour’s success allowed organizers to hire a part-time coordinator in 2011. \r\nResults of the consumer survey will be available by early summer.
Authors: Smith, J.L.
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Smith, J.L. County Extension Agent, Horticulture, K-State Research & Extension, Kansas, 66046