Agritourism

Agriculture and Nature Tourism is widespread in America and in many instances the driving force to a community's prosperity. It is business conducted by farmers or ranchers on their working agricultural, horticultural, or agribusiness operation and brings much enjoyment and education to the many people that visit them. Each year many visitors reap the benefits of entertainment, recreation, participation, and education as they flock to farms and ranches in nearby areas. People who live in urban areas want to know where their food is grown and locals want to support neighboring farms.

The University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources division publishes several workbooks to help new businesses get started and advise potential farmers and ranchers about land use, startup costs, and best practices. See the UC Small Farm Program website for more information.

University of California Website Resources

• Agritourism Enterprises on Your Farm or Ranch: Understanding Regulations: Agritourism can be a great boon to the California grower, but you have to be aware of your legal responsibilities, get your permits, and follow the rules regarding land use, zoning, public health, and other areas. This gives you a brief overview.
• Agritourism Enterprises on Your Farm or Ranch: Where to Start: This publication gives you a game plan for navigating the maze of permits, plans, and approvals you will need to get in order before you launch a potentially profitable agritourism enterprise on your California farm or ranch.
• Marketing Strategies for Agritourism Operations: Agritourism gives the farmer a broad choice of opportunities to market products, on-farm experiences, and hospitality services. This publication will help you assess your options and work out a solid plan for marketing your agritourism operation.
• Planning a U-Pick Operation on Your California Farm: University of California Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program
  (UC SAREP)