TVRC Chamber News: The Voice of Business & Industry | May 2022

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Agritourism Act Sheds Light on Federal Resources for Local Business U.S. Representatives Jennifer Wexton (D-VA) and Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced the bipartisan Accelerating the Growth of Rural Innovation and Tourism Opportunities to Uphold Rural Industries and Sustainable Marketplaces (AGRITOURISM) Act. The bill created an Office of Agritourism at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to serve as a dedicated voice for agritourism businesses in the federal government and to consolidate information on federal

resources available to agritourism business owners. “Agritourism has unlocked new economic potential for small, family-owned farms in rural areas across Virginia and throughout the country -- yet I’ve heard from too many business owners in our region that it is difficult to access or to even find out about federal resources available to help cultivate these businesses,” said Rep. Jennifer Wexton. “A dedicated Office of Agritourism would help these small farms get the support they need to start and sustain their agritourism businesses, like loans and grants, access to broadband connectivity programs, promotion of agritourism activities, and best practices. As founder of the bipartisan Congressional Agritourism Caucus, I’m proud to be a voice for these businesses in Washington, who are crucial drivers of rural economies here in our district.”

FARMERS D R I V E FA R M C R ED I T

Establishing an Office of Agritourism within USDA would provide an advocate for these businesses within the federal government, promote the development of agritourism activities across the country, and ensure federal resources to provide assistance to agritourism businesses are readily accessible to business owners. Agritourism is a successful and expanding industry throughout the country. According to the most recent Census of Agriculture, agritourism-related income jumped from $202 million in 2002 to $949 million in 2017 - a nearly 370% increase. In communities like those represented by Wexton, agritourism has enabled small farmers to expand their businesses and increase profits, which has boosted local economies while maintaining the rural character of the region.

You value keeping the legacy of your farm. We value helping farmers like you. When you’re ready to discuss your options, contact our team.

888.339.3334 | mafc.com |


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