Farmers who want to generate income by inviting visitors to their farms may submit farm information for the UC Small Farm Center on-line agri-tourism directory, which is now under development. Information on everything from informal farm stays to well-established agri-tourism enterpirses is being cataloged in a web database to give tourists an easy way to search for a farm experience in specific counties or zip codes.
Agri-tourism can take many forms. Roadside stands and farmers' markets offer farm-fresh produce and interaction with growers. Ranches may open to the public for wildlife watching and hunting. Ag tours, on-farm bed and breakfasts, and dude ranches give tourists the fresh air, open space and relaxation of country life.
U-pick operations, pumpkin patches, Christmas tree farms, corn mazes, farm-animal petting zoos, wine tasting, ag heritage museums, festivals and fairs all attract visitors.
To submit an agricultural operation to the UC Small Farm Center agri-tourism directory, call the Small Farm Center at (530) 752-8136 or e-mail sfcenter@ucdavis.edu and ask for the agri-tourism directory form.
