The Agritourism Summit hosted by Michigan State University Extension is set for next month in Traverse City. This event will gather farmers, entrepreneurs, and local leaders to share insights on a rapidly growing sector in the state.
More visitors are looking for unique farm experiences during their vacations. In 2022, 836 farms in Michigan reported engaging in agritourism activities, a rise of 11% since 2017. Michigan now ranks fourth in the U.S. for agritourism, contributing over $56 million to the local economy through activities like farm tours and u-pick fruit.
However, as this trend grows, farmers face new challenges. The summit aims to help them navigate these issues and explore ways to diversify their income. Planning committee chair Jennifer Berkey emphasizes the importance of offering experiences that connect visitors with farming. “People want to know where their food comes from,” she says.
This year’s theme, “Cultivating Opportunities Through Collaboration, Innovation, and Policy,” reflects the summit’s goal to empower local farmers. A farm tour kicks off the event on May 13, limited to 52 participants. This behind-the-scenes tour includes six stops, providing tastings and hands-on experiences.
Day one concludes with a networking event featuring locally sourced food prepared by award-winning chef Jimmy Schmidt during a horse jumping demonstration. The main summit on May 14 expects over 200 attendees. Dr. Tim Boring from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development will be the keynote speaker. Sessions will cover marketing strategies, zoning laws, and practical agritourism insights.
Last year’s summit took place in Leelanau County, and organizers plan to rotate future events to keep things fresh. “We want to maintain the synergy of our local agriculture,” Berkey explains.
In 2024, Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared October as Michigan Agritourism Month. A recent survey indicates strong community support for local agriculture, as residents value the beauty and access to fresh, local food.
As agritourism thrives, it’s essential to find ways to support farmers. By focusing on experiences, education, and community engagement, the Agritourism Summit could help ensure that local agriculture remains sustainable and vibrant for years to come.
For more information, you can read about the advantages of agritourism in the U.S. Department of Agriculture report.
