khadejahscott | Panhandle Outdoors

Agritourism – An Overview

by khadejahscott | Nov 17, 2023

CONNECTING WITH THE LAND

With less than 2% of the American population now living on farms, many people have become increasingly disconnected from the intricate world of agriculture and food production. Consumers are showing a growing curiosity about where their food comes from and the technology behind its cultivation. Agritourism is emerging as a promising way to bridge this gap by offering the public a chance to witness or participate in various farming, ranching, historical, cultural, or “harvest-your-own” experiences on real farms, ranches, or operational forests. Essentially, it’s the perfect blend of Florida’s two major industries: tourism and agriculture. Whether you’re picking your own produce, navigating corn mazes, exploring pumpkin patches, or enjoying farm-to-table dining experiences, agritourism offers both delightful and educational farm-based adventures. This article provides an overview of the exciting world of agritourism.

A young girl picking an orange from a tree. Photo taken 12-05-16. UF/IFAS Photo by Camila Guillen

WHY CONSIDER AGRITOURISM

Farm tourism is a growing industry in the U.S., with many Americans spending on recreational activities on farms.
Agritourism supports environmental conservation and wildlife by requiring land management for activities like wildlife photography, bird watching, and fishing.
There are economic incentives available from federal and non-profit organizations for setting aside land for wildlife conservation.
Agritourism offers social benefits to local communities, providing opportunities to educate the public about agriculture and promoting local sustainable markets.
Before embarking on an agritourism venture, it’s essential to be well-informed about the associated advantages and disadvantages.

AGRITOURISM OPPORTUNITIES

In addition to traditional agritourism activities like horseback riding, U-pick fields, and bed-and-breakfasts, many farmers have expanded their offerings to attract visitors. These new ideas encompass a wide range of experiences, including corn mazes, informative farm tours, farm museums, seasonal or holiday festivals, nature trails, hayrides, fee-based hunting or fishing opportunities, camping experiences, corporate picnics, engaging farm zoos, and more. To enhance the success of your agritourism operation, it’s crucial to create a distinctive experience. This entails not only the core tourism activity but also the provision of special services such as facilities, educational signs, convenient parking, informative newsletters, and memorable souvenirs like T-shirts. Additionally, the atmosphere cultivated by you and your staff plays a pivotal role in leaving a lasting and positive impression on your visitors. Consider developing a plan before getting started.

Farm raised alpacas. Photo taken 11-9-17. UF/IFAS Photo by Tyler Jones

KEYS TO DEVELOPING A PLAN

Clarify your goals and identify the advantages you hope to gain from launching an agritourism venture.
Familiarize yourself with nearby tourism activities and consider cooperation with local attractions rather than rivalry.
Create a detailed business plan that outlines your mission, financial requirements, available resources, and strategies.
Determine your ideal audience to attract visitors effectively.
Be aware of legal considerations and acquire liability insurance to protect your operation.
Develop a visitor management strategy.
Establish acceptable levels of human impact on your property and implement measures to maintain those limits.
Continuously assess the costs and benefits of your agritourism venture.

Pumpkins in a wagon in a pumpkin patch. Photo taken 10-06-18. UF/IFAS Photo by Camila Guillen

THE PANHANDLE’S AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE

The panhandle has been a hub for the cultivation of crops like cotton, tobacco, and peanuts. Throughout the centuries, the Panhandle’s farming traditions have evolved, adapting to the challenges posed by climate, soil conditions, and economic shifts. Today, the agricultural heritage of the Florida Panhandle continues to thrive, with modern farmers diversifying their crops and embracing sustainable practices to ensure the legacy of farming endures for generations to come. Agritourism often celebrates and preserves the rich agricultural traditions and practices of the Panhandle region. Agritourism offers a unique and enriching experience that allows individuals to connect with the roots of agriculture while enjoying the beauty of rural landscapes. For more information on starting an agritourism operation, visit the tourism section of the Small Farms & Alternative Enterprises website (https://smallfarm.ifas.ufl.edu/direct-marketing-value-added/agritourism/) or contact your local county extension office.

Simple Steps to Improve Local Water Quality

by khadejahscott | Oct 5, 2023

Clean water is vital for our health, the environment, and the sustainability of our communities. Pollution and contaminants can harm aquatic life, disrupt ecosystems, and upset the natural balance of our surroundings. By taking steps to maintain and enhance water quality, we ensure clean water for ourselves and future generations while preserving our precious environment. While the state addresses broader concerns, each of us can contribute to better water quality right at home. Here are some easy tips for improving water quality in your own backyard:

UF/IFAS Photo by Tyler Jones

Fertilize Appropriately: Plants need nutrients to grow, and proper fertilization is essential for their health. Following recommended rates and application schedules, as provided by UF/IFAS, can help prevent nutrient runoff and leaching, which can lead to water pollution in Florida. Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer label and adhere to local fertilizer regulations. When seeking professional landscaping assistance, make sure the provider is a licensed fertilizer applicator.
Maintain Your Septic Tank: Approximately one-third of Florida’s wastewater is treated by septic systems. However, many of these systems fail to adequately treat wastewater, releasing nutrients into our groundwater and surface waters. Regular inspections and pumping every 3-5 years are crucial to ensuring your system functions correctly. Dispose of human waste properly, maintain your drain field, and use water efficiently to keep your septic system in good working order.

UF/IFAS Photo by Samantha Howley

Care for Your Stormwater Pond: Stormwater ponds play a vital role in treating runoff water from neighborhoods. Look for plants along the pond’s banks, as they help filter nutrients from the water. These plants also act as a buffer between the pond and surrounding areas, such as lawns, roads, or sidewalks. Avoid removing or mowing these plants. If you live near a pond, maintain a 10-foot buffer between the pond and any areas where you apply fertilizer or herbicides to minimize the risk of pollutants reaching the pond and affecting its water quality.
Use Pesticides Wisely: Unwanted pesticides in water can harm the water’s quality. Reducing pesticide use benefits your family and the environment. By using fewer pesticides, you help preserve biodiversity, protect beneficial insects, and maintain ecosystem health.
Water Efficiently: A great way to conserve water is by being smart about how you care for your garden. To start, group plants with similar water needs together and make sure your watering system is set up correctly. Irrigation systems are designed to work alongside natural rain, so if rain is in the forecast, hold off on watering. To figure out when your plants need water, keep an eye out for signs of wilting in your grass or plants. When you do water, it’s best to do it in the morning to minimize water loss through evaporation. When you can, use a watering can, pail, or hose for precise watering. Regularly inspect your irrigation system for leaks, clogs, or breaks. Ensure that all sprinklers are directing water on your plants, not on the sidewalk.

UF/IFAS Photo by Tyler Jones

Improving local water quality is essential for safeguarding our natural resources and the well-being of our communities. By adopting these simple strategies, you can actively contribute to reducing water pollution and preserving the beauty of our local waterways. For more information and guidance on improving water quality at home, don’t hesitate to contact your local UF/IFAS Extension. Together, we can make a positive impact on our environment and future generations.