Kentucky Ag News

Commissioner Comer: Enjoy Agritourism Month at a fun, family-friendly farm destination

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Agriculture Commissioner James Comer encourages all Kentuckians to celebrate Kentucky Agritourism Month in September at a Kentucky farm destination. "At a time when money is tight and gas is expensive, you and your family can have a great time at a Kentucky farm without breaking the bank," Commissioner Comer said. "You can keep your entertainment and food dollars close to home. And you can help a Kentucky farmer earn a living." Kentucky's nearly 340 farm destinations offer u-pick pumpkin patches, apple orchards, hay slides, corn mazes, live music, fresh Kentucky Proud food, wine tastings, trail rides, and many more activities and attractions. Festivals, concerts, and other special events are scheduled all month long and throughout the fall.

A new state law requires farm venues to notify their guests that they assume the risk of participating in the activities of the operation. This law, which took effect in July, was intended to provide limited liability protection for agritourism operations. The law also helps patrons by reminding them that they are visiting a working farm and as such are responsible for their own safety. "Similar laws have been enacted in other states, and as a result, their agritourism industries have grown, providing additional income to family farmers and generating economic activity in rural communities," Commissioner Comer said. "I think Kentucky's law will have the same effect and will result in a safer, more enjoyable farm experience for visitors." A directory of agritourism destinations is available at www.kentuckyfarmsarefun.com. Users can search the database by region or type of attraction. To find a list of Kentucky Proud wineries, go to www.kentuckywine.com. For more information on agritourism in Kentucky, contact Ben Shaffar, the Kentucky Department of Agriculture's agritourism director, at (502) 564-4983 or ben.shaffar@ky.gov