Farms are next tourist attractions

Wednesday, 02 May 2007

Page 1 of 3 By Kathleen Dayton CHARLESTON -- As an increasing number of homes and businesses replace the rural landscape, farmers across the country are looking for ways to compete in the marketplace and preserve their way of life. For some, turning the farm into a tourist attraction has become a way to boost business. “Agritourism is something the state is trying to promote and we’re trying to keep small farmers in business,” said Ann Limehouse Irvin, co-owner of Irvin House Vineyards on Wadmalaw Island. “Some people put honey bees on their property, or it might be a ‘U-pick,’ or they might bring in school tours, just to let people know they are there and you can buy their produce.” Irvin grew up on a Johns Island farm and started the vineyard with her husband Jim Irvin in 2000. A former schoolteacher, Irvin said she brings her passion for teaching to the tours and events that take place at the vineyard, many of which are free. “Whatever you like to do, that can be part of your business and people love it,” Irvin said. “If you have a passion for something, it shows.” Visitors who tour the vineyard account for 75% of its wine sales, she said. Sales have increased about 50% year-over-year since 2003. Agritourism was unheard of a couple of generations ago, but changing times have turned the humble farm into an exotic setting. “If you’re not around farming that much, it becomes an attraction,” Irvin said. Another Wadmalaw Island farm is charging down the agritourism path with tram tours and a gift shop offering its tea among other enticements. << Start < Prev 1 2 3 Next > End >>