Since time immemorial most of us have encountered some form of wanderlust that has us striking out to find new things around us near and far. Additionally, since the very beginning of time, we’ve relied on the natural resources in those surroundings to grow the things we need to sustain life — the foods we eat and more. In more recent years the phenomena of agritourism has linked those two key elements of life together making for some exciting new discoveries. They even created an organization to foster more of it called the Michigan Agritourism Association.
Now comes that same association with the release of their new publication, Michigan Farm Fun, its 2017 directory featuring local agricultural products and engaging activities offered in every region of Michigan.
This is the 10th annual edition of the popular directory, which includes agritourism destinations, including farm markets, u-pick farms, educational farms and more. The 2017 Directory is produced with support from the Michigan Apple Committee, Farm Bureau Insurance, and Chemical Bank.
Janice Benson serves as Executive Director of the Michigan Agritourism Association. She tells us, “The directory has been a beloved resource as far back as 1979, when it was first published by the Michigan Department of Agriculture.” She adds, “Today, it continues to be recognized as the best place to find family-friendly, fun activities on Michigan farms.”
Legacy Sponsor Farm Bureau Insurance has supported the directory since the Association’s first edition in 2008.
Jim Robinson is CEO at Farm Bureau Insurance. He says, “We’re excited about the release of this year’s directory.” He points out that the new directory, “lists hundreds of farm destinations across Michigan where visitors can enjoy our state’s bountiful harvest, including farmers’ markets, orchards, cider mills, and many more popular agritourism spots. We’re proud to support Michigan farmers and the agritourism industry.”
This year’s directory highlights what’s unique and special about each region of the state, from an agricultural perspective. Benson notes, “Michigan has a great story to tell,” adding, “Agriculture has been such a big part of Michigan’s history and it’s one of the most exciting stories of the future. Many people don’t realize what we have here. Michigan is really an agricultural powerhouse.”
A responsive website compliments the printed directory for easy searching of agritourism destinations across the state and features a trip planning feature for creating an itinerary with detailed directions. You can click through to that link below.
Meanwhile, printed copies are available at Farm Bureau Insurance offices, Chemical Bank locations in Michigan and Indiana, Michigan Welcome Centers, member locations and many Convention and Visitor Bureaus throughout Michigan.
The Michigan Agritourism Association is a non-profit association that supports the agritourism industry through promotion, education, advocacy, problem resolution and networking. Its goal is to keep family farms sustainable, support local economic growth and provide rich and unique experiences for visitors to make lasting memories.
Here’s the link to the website: http://www.michiganfarmfun.com
