To help determine the kind of agritourism venture that would fit well with you, your family, and your farmland, evaluate the features & unique assets of your farm. Consider the following:Roadways
- Are you close to a major town or city?
- Do you have good roadways leading to your farm? Would large vehicles or buses be able to make the journey to your farm?
- Do you have a sign with your farm name, or will you need to purchase one?
- Do you have a driveway that can handle the traffic of extra visitors?
- Do you have adequate space for parking your guests?
- Would large vehicles be able to park and turn around in your parking area?
Facilities & Buildings
- Do you have a building on your property to hold a gift shop?
- Do you have barns or greenhouses that are guest friendly?
- Do have space to add new buildings or additions to current buildings for lectures or demonstrations?
- Do you have lights or could you put lights up where guests will be in the dark?
Animals & Wildlife
- What wildlife frequents your land? Deer, fish in bodies of water, birds, etc can bring in wildlife fanciers.
- What animals can you use from your current operation? Horses, llamas, sheep, pigs, goats, beef or dairy cows, chickens, etc. can help bring in guests for hands on activities, demonstrations, or tours.
Land
- What’s unique about your land?
- Do you have scenic views?
- Do you have ponds or other bodies of water?
- Do you have hills or valleys?
- Is there a forest or unique landmark on your land?
- Do you have unused land that could be utilized for petting areas, buildings, or parking?
- Do you own or rent your land? If you rent, will the land owner allow capital improvements required for an agritourism venture? Is your lease long enough so that the investment makes sense?
- How can the weather be used as an asset? Consider Ice skating, snowmobiling, boating, outdoor activities, fall foliage.
- How is your land already being used and how could you adapt or add to that existing usage?
- Do you have unique soil types that may allow for interesting plants or wildlife?
- What is the history of your land; historical sites can bring many tourists.
Source (with minor modifications): An Entrepreneur’s Guide to Starting a New Agricultural Enterprise: Managing Risk.
University of Delaware Cooperative Extension
University of Delaware Cooperative Extension
