About the NYS Agri-Tourism Program

Definition...
“NYS Agri-tourism is defined as any food or agriculture related program, project or activity taking place at a farm or other food or agriculture related location(s) that will promote and enhance the public’s understanding and awareness of New York food, farms, and agriculture and the importance of this sector to their way of life by attracting visitors for social, cultural, educational, environmental, recreational and entertainment activities and/or the opportunity to purchase New York produced food or agricultural products.”

Background and Purpose...
Section 16(2) of the Agriculture and Markets Law authorizes the Department undertake and support activities and projects which aid in the promotion and development of the agricultural resources and the State and the improvement of the conditions of rural life.

“By any measure the food, agriculture, and tourism industries are leading sectors in New York State’s economy. They are also sectors which compliment each other, and when combined, offer significant opportunities for industry and community enrichment and growth in every region of the State.”

“From an economic standpoint, food and agricultural tourism generates income, creates jobs, provides economic diversification and stabilization, and attracts tourists and the dollars they spend. From a social and cultural standpoint, food and agricultural tourism can help preserve rural lifestyles, increase awareness and appreciation for rural and agricultural heritage, increase a sense of community pride, and raise awareness of rural and agricultural issues. Environmentally, food and agricultural tourism often contributes to better agricultural environmental management, protection of farmland, restoration of agricultural heritage.”

State Supported Programs...
The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets has been actively promoting Agri-Tourism projects and events through focused state wide grant funding programs. Each year the Dept. offers grant assistance to actively promote Agri-Tourism projects within the State. These funded opportunities are open to agriculturally related public and private agencies and organizations, business and industry, educational institutions and local governments.

In 2008, New York State Agriculture Commissioner Patrick Hooker announced more than $1 million in funding for 51 Agri-tourism projects throughout the State. Nine local Agri-tourism projects were awarded in Western New York.