"Growing AgriTourism in Kansas" is Published
Co-authored by expert Jane Eckert, this is the first comprehensive book written by a successful agritourism operator. A sixth generation farmer, Eckert is CEO of Eckert AgriMarketing, providing marketing and agritourism consultation to private farms as well as state and local governments. She has provided keynotes and workshops in 33 states and 5 Canadian provinces.
“The book ‘Growing Agritourism’ is an extraordinary compilation of information written from the producer’s point of view, with step-by-step details, hundreds of proven ideas and critical information about every aspect of running an agritourism destination. This kind of comprehensive guide has never been created before by any state agency.” (Click here to see the Table of Contents)
The book also underscores the importance of producers partnering with travel professionals in order to market agritourism. Eckert emphasizes the ‘tourism’ in agritourism. Her book gives farmers and ranchers a blueprint on how to work with their local, regional and state tourism organizations.”
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“Growing Agritourism” addresses many other topics, including:
- First steps to starting an agritourism business
- Financial guide for start-up operations
- Extensive list of activities to offer
- Eckert Farm Marketing Plan
- Tips for selling at a roadside stand or country store
- Hunting and fishing destinations
- Lodging (bed & breakfast, cabins, bunkhouses, etc.)
- Fall Season and Pumpkin Patches
- Staffing, regulations and permits
- Resource guide of federal, state and local agencies & organizations
The most innovative section of the book is the Eckert Farm Marketing Plan, which Eckert created based on her successful approach to marketing her family’s farm. Unlike traditional “academic” marketing strategies, this plan is designed specifically for farmers and ranchers with very minimal budgets and it covers the most basic and critical activities that will translate into increased sales.
“Farmers and ranchers are experts at growing commodities and raising livestock, not in marketing products,” Eckert says. “So their biggest challenge is often learning how to increase visits and sales at their operations. My plan takes the mystery out of marketing!”
To buy a copy of “Growing Agritourism in Kansas,” send in your completed order form and $15 payment to the Kansas Department of Commerce.
Click here to download and print the order form for "Growing Agritourism in Kansas."
