Agritourism Business Owners Need To Assess Risks Before Opening Their Gates To The Public
As farms open their gates to the public, safety becomes the top priority. Agritourism provides valuable opportunities for education and community engagement, but it also introduces unique risks that farmers must manage carefully to protect both guests, livestock, and their property.
During farm visits, many guests are unfamiliar with the risks associated with being on a farm. Unfamiliarity with animals, an unkept farm, and seasonal and operational hazards make supervision essential.
“A lot of children aren’t familiar with being around animals, specifically cows,” said Chloe Hillian, Hillian Ranch agritourism and event manager. “Our biggest concern is just making sure that we’re keeping people corralled and at a safe distance but still letting them interact.”
According to a USDA farm diversification and community development fact sheet establishing clear boundaries, maintaining visitor limits and providing close supervision is critical to ensure safety and a positive experience for guests.
Hillian said her family rarely allows more than 15 visitors per tour, and for more in-depth tours, they keep groups even smaller. These small groups, which have multiple people to supervise them, are key.
The USDA agritourism resource manual also recommends posting clear and visible instructions for guests in addition to signage that outlines safe areas. Having direct signage and directions is critical for farm safety.
In addition to guests being provided with clear directions, rules and expectations for employees should be clearly outlined before the event as well. Proper documentation and planning can help farms reduce risks and protect both visitors and the operation financially.
Seasonal hazards also become a concern as pumpkin patches fill with visitors and hayrides roll across fields. These include muddy patches, wet leaves, icy patches, and much more. According to the USDA website, farmers are encouraged to check their visitor areas regularly so that they can adjust activity plans according to weather and farm conditions.
With seasonal hazards, accidents are more likely to happen. According to the USDA agritourism and rural economic development resource guide, maintaining liability insurance and a detailed risk management plan helps protect both visitors and the farm financially.
Although there are risks, agritourism is critical for the industry and offers many benefits. Farm tours can educate both children and adults about food production and agriculture. These experiences foster appreciation for the agriculture industry.
“It’s a great way to share what people in agriculture do, and it helps kids and adults make connections to where their food comes from,” Hillian said.
For farmers considering opening their operations to the public, Hillian offers practical advice: establish clear boundaries, keep groups small, actively supervise visitors, and plan for seasonal hazards.
“Do it,” Hillian said. “It’s a lot of work, but it’s very rewarding and helps people understand and support agriculture.”
Agritourism is more than a seasonal attraction or simple farm tour; it’s an opportunity to build trust between producers and the public. By keeping safety at the forefront, farmers can ensure that visitors make memories, learn about agriculture, and take away a better understanding of where their food comes from.
