Agritourism workshop to focus on regulations, zoning

January 10, 2013  


WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Farmers interested in agritourism can learn about ways to decrease their liability and increase their profits by attending a special workshop.

The annual Indiana Horticulture Congress agritourism preconference workshop will be Jan. 22 at the Wyndham Indianapolis West Hotel, 2544 Executive Drive, Indianapolis.

Organizer Roy Ballard, Hancock County Extension educator, said the workshop is geared toward those interested in expanding the economic potential of their agritourism venture or agribusiness.

"This session provides farmers and others with an interest in providing rural educational and entertainment experiences with the opportunity to learn how to grow such ventures in a responsible and sustainable manner," Ballard said.

The daylong program will focus on regulations regarding agritourism. Topics include the process of starting an agritourism venture, land-use planning, agricultural zoning, strategies for sustaining tourism and providing safe play areas for children.

Ballard said a Hancock County ordinance that provides for some forms of agritourism or agribusiness in areas zoned agricultural will also be discussed.

"The county-based ordinance has received significant attention across Indiana. It's an important step in building an infrastructure to support and facilitate agriculture-related growth," he said.

A panel of farmers will offer firsthand experiences on offering farm weddings and receptions, which Ballard said are increasing in popularity. An evening roundtable discussion will conclude the day's events and provide an opportunity for an informal exchange of ideas.

The full workshop agenda is available at http://www.bit.ly/ZDcijA. To register, visit http://www.regonline.com/Register/Checkin.aspx?EventID=1127338.

There is a reduced fee for anyone registering before Monday (Jan. 14). Attendees can register for only the workshop by selecting one-day registration on the website.

The workshop is part of the annual Indiana Horticulture Congress and Trade Show on Jan. 22-24, which will feature exhibits and presentations on current agriculture topics. For more information about the three-day conference, visit http://www.inhortcongress.org.

Writer: Amanda Gee, 765-494-8402, agee@purdue.edu

Source: Roy Ballard, 317-462-1113, Ext. 225, rballard@purdue.edu

Ag Communications: (765) 494-2722;
Keith Robinson, robins89@purdue.edu
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