Agritourism cited as method to stabilize family farms in Granville County
What happened
At an economic development summit, Dr. Carla Barbieri of North Carolina State University discussed how agritourism can address the disconnect between rural and urban populations. She noted that adults who engage in agritourism are willing to spend up to 20% more on locally-grown goods. This practice helps keep family members employed on farms, particularly as farming costs increase and profits decline. Cindy Bennett, owner of Hillside Farms, was among the farm owners who spoke on a panel about the topic.
Why it matters
Agritourism is presented as a potential method for rural economic development. By connecting consumers to local agriculture, it helps preserve heritage and supports the financial stability of family farms. This increased local consumer spending could strengthen the rural economy.
Who's involved
- Granville CountyCounty where farm operations utilizing agritourism are located.
- Cindy BennettOwner of Hillside Farms, which utilizes agritourism.
- Carla BarbieriResearcher who studied the benefits of agritourism.
- North Carolina State UniversityUniversity where Dr. Barbieri conducts research.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- Cindy BennettSpeculative
Could see increased farm revenue and stability from agritourism participation.
- Kelly DixonSpeculative
Might see increased farm revenue and stability from agritourism participation.
- North Carolina State UniversitySpeculative
May see improved funding access due to the real-world success of research.
Keep exploring
The entities involved
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Granville County
county in North Carolina, United States
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