Agriculture is an economic driver for our region, but it also makes Simcoe County a popular destination for agritourism, which has been on the rise in recent years. Whether you are looking to take that perfect social media picture, see livestock up close, or shop for farm-fresh produce, there is a local destination for agritourists near and far. In Cookstown, Laura’s Farm Stand just opened for the season last week. It has become a popular spot in the summer for flower picking and photography. “It was a great growing year so the flowers are looking amazing,” said owner, Laura Geertsema. “We’ve got a few different wildflower fields, including a field of Sinead’s and a field of sunflowers. We’ve got thousands of blooms at the farm.” Up in Springwater Township, the strong growing season has been great news for Harris Farms and its staple crop, corn. “Corn definitely brings people in,” said Laina Harris, one of the farm’s co-owners. “Whenever we start sweet corn, we definitely notice more traffic coming through. People are very excited for it.” In a recent study by the County of Simcoe, seven large local businesses that participated accounted for more than 1.2 million daily visits alone over a two-year period. “Agritourism is becoming popular, especially with young families,” said Brendan Matheson, Tourism Simcoe County Program Supervisor. “I think it’s because it combines education, social media worthy experiences and recreation, and it’s something that families can do together on budget.” Provincewide, the sector accounts for nearly 10,000 jobs and a $640 million economic output, according to Agritourism Ontario. “The underlying motivation for our members, and I think farmers across the province, is getting people to know where their food comes from, where it’s produced,” explained Kevin Vallier, Agritourism Ontario CEO. “We’re excited to keep growing all the things we grow and can bring that fresh produce to people’s tables,” added Harris. While corn season remains in full swing, up next is tomatoes, followed by pumpkins and squash in the fall. Flower season runs until around mid-September.
