The deadline to register to participate for the third annual Open Farm Day is April 30, and Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Ron Kostyshyn and Culture, Heritage and Tourism Minister Flor Marcelino encouraged Manitoba farm families to sign up.
“The face of farming has changed with the times through agricultural activities, and I encourage Manitoba farmers to help tell this story and show how the agriculture industry has progressed,” said Kostyshyn. “The role farms play in the production and processing of food and beverages, and their unique place in the agri-tourism industry is what makes agriculture an economic driver in this province.
This year’s Open Farm Day is set for Sept. 16.
Last year, more than 40 farms participated in Open Farm Day, attracting over 5,000 people. Farm sites can include fruit and vegetable producers along with crop and livestock farms. Agri-tourism, horticultural operations and agribusinesses related to farming are also invited to take part.
“Opening the farm gates to rural non-farm and urban guests and out-of-province visitors has become a welcome addition to Manitoba’s tourism package,” said Marcelino. “This event will also help build an important connection between consumers and the food they eat. It also highlights the wide variety of products that are produced in the province.”
Farmers wishing to participate in Open Farm Day can call the Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives agri-tourism hotline at 204-821-5322.
