By Andrew Moore
Key Takeaways
- Agritourism strengthens rural economies: By diversifying income streams, agritourism helps family farms survive and supports livelihoods in rural communities.
- Hands-on experiences connect people to agriculture: Visitors gain meaningful, educational experiences through interactive farm activities, deepening their understanding of food systems and farm life.
- Cultural and environmental preservation are central: Agritourism highlights local traditions, heritage and sustainable farming practices while encouraging authentic engagement and community development.
As cities grow and more people want to reconnect with the source of their food, farms around the world are increasingly offering agritourism experiences. These hands-on opportunities teach visitors about farming and rural life while supporting local economies and helping sustain family farms, according to a North Carolina State University professor.
Carla Barbieri, a professor and Extension specialist in the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management at NC State, has spent years studying agritourism around the globe, and her new book Rethinking Agritourism draws on her research and on-the-ground observations to highlight key developments and guide future scholarship and practice.
Over the course of nine chapters, Barbieri examines agritourism within its broader agricultural, tourism and societal contexts. She covers agritourism’s foundations, offerings and benefits, the roles of farmers — especially women — and tourists, its impact from local to global, and emerging trends.
Source : ncsu.edu