Agritourism is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of Missouri’s rural economy, offering farmers new ways to connect with consumers and diversify income. According to the USDA’s 2022 Census of Agriculture, agritourism brought in $1.26 billion nationwide—up 12.4% since 2017—demonstrating the growing demand for hands-on agricultural experiences.
Missouri Farm Bureau Chief Administrative Officer Davin Althoff highlights how small family farms are leading this trend, inviting visitors to engage in activities like harvesting produce, feeding animals, and enjoying seasonal festivals. The rise in farm-to-table dining and culinary tourism is also contributing to agritourism’s momentum, with tourists increasingly eager to explore where their food originates.
To further support this thriving sector, Missouri Farm Bureau will host the 2025 Agritourism Conference from July 13–15 in Independence, Missouri. The event aims to equip current and aspiring agritourism operators with practical tools and insights.
Highlights of the three-day conference include:
- Sunday reception and keynote by Matt Moreland of Red Barn Ranch
- Monday bus tour to premier agritourism sites including The Berry Patch and YaYa’s Alpaca Farm, concluding with a farm-to-table wine dinner
- Tuesday workshops on marketing, compliance, and business planning, featuring experts like Maureen Ballatori, Mike Haffner, and Kayden Guymon
Registration is open through Thursday, July 10, with options ranging from full participation ($150) to single-day tickets.
As agritourism continues to bridge the gap between farm and consumer, Missouri Farm Bureau’s upcoming conference promises to be a valuable resource for rural entrepreneurs ready to grow.
Learn more at Missouri Farm Bureau or follow @MOFarmBureau on social media. For questions, contact Julie Waldrop at julie.waldrop@mofb.org or 573-893-1417.
