Five tips for agritourism business owners
1. Research the activity to determine how much to charge and how other local businesses publicize it. “Time management and insurance are frequently cited as the biggest challenges. Talk to peers about how to overcome them,” says Rachael Callahan, statewide agritourism coordinator for the University of California, Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program. 2. Avoid activities that would substantially increase the need for liability insurance. “We are not a U-Pick farm. This way we avoid liability for guests running up and down hills with sharp instruments,” says Bill MacElroy, co-owner of Monte-Bellaria di California, a lavender farm in Sebastopol. 3. Ask the local tourism board, farm bureau and ecology-minded nonprofits about partnerships to spread word of mouth. These could include selling other businesses’ products and allowing them to sell your products. 4. Invite individuals interested in learning new farming skills to your business. Ethic Cider’s workshops are designed to provide a deeper connection with the local community, cider club members and agribusiness owners. 5. Find other ways to publicize the products and activities with locals. “Right now we’re starting to host hospitality industry nights. That way folks from local hotels and wineries can come, enjoy our gardens and get to know us,” says Elizabeth Stein, co-owner of Cassidy Ranch, an organic fruit, herb, flower and vegetable farm in Sonoma.— Jessica Zimmer
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May 2024
NorthBaybiz 39
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