Publication Date

4-2026

School

College of Arts and Sciences; School of Business

Major

Interdisciplinary Studies; Hospitality Management

Keywords

agritourism, agribusiness, business improvement plan, family farm, farm business

Disciplines

Agribusiness | Hospitality Administration and Management | Tourism and Travel

Abstract

Agritourism is a rapidly expanding industry full of business opportunities. From wedding barns to pumpkin patches, agritourism comprises a niche intersection of agricultural business and experiential tourism. Heavily contested definitionally over a period of years, agritourism is a continually emerging source of business for a variety of locations across the US and global economy. This unique industry is composed of a conglomerate of elements and enterprises that vary widely. One agritourism segment that has undergone the most development is family owned and operated farms, such as Butcher Family Farm in Washington, West Virginia. Standing as the perceived focal point of the Washington community, this agritourism enterprise has been owned by the Butcher family since 1934 and has navigated through a series of organizational changes that illustrate the need for a strong, innovative business improvement plan. Through the analysis of agritourism literature and the subsequent formation of research-backed insights, various areas of potential operational improvement will be identified and executed within the context of a business development plan.

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