Family Farm Day Celebrates Local Agriculture

Many of us drive past farms in our daily travels—some of us understand the things we see as we pass local farms, but many of us do not. And although we may know the farmers who have farm stands, or bring their produce to our local farmers’ markets, not all farmers can sell at farmers’ markets or consistently reap the benefits of agritourism, and many small farms face challenges connecting with local customers.

Cornell Cooperative Extension Schoharie Otsego Counties developed Family Farm Day in 2013 to enhance public awareness of agriculture through farm visits, and to provide participating farms with opportunities to expand their local customer base and increase direct-to-consumer sales. Participating farms have reported building clientele from FFD visitors, and the annual event continues to achieve its goal of generating business for participating farms. Each year, FFD helps increase public awareness and knowledge of agriculture, builds lasting relationships between producers and consumers, and increases engagement in local agriculture.