Open Farm Days this weekend

“There are over 470 bison ranches in Alberta and that makes up nearly 50 per cent of all of the bison in Canada. We are quite a contributor in that area.”

Carson says over 130 places are taking part in Open Farm Days this year, an increase from last year.

“The really great part about that piece is that we actually have 50 new hosts, new experiences as part of the program this year, so there is always something new to go out and see.”

That group includes Evergreen Park, Sunflower & Swallow Gardens near Bezanson, and Good Food Farm and Farm to Table on 51 both located near Sexsmith.

Carson is hoping more Peace Country operations will want to take part in future years.

“It’s one of those things where we’re always continuing to look for those people who are interested in giving this a try. This is truly an incubator program for one of the greatest opportunities in agri-tourism that a person may take.”

“(If) you have a farm or an ag. tourism experience, you can certainly sign on. We have training programs and all sorts of things that happen throughout the year. They just culminate with this great weekend.”

Carson says problems like wildfires and grasshoppers forced some Alberta farms that wanted to take part this year to withdraw.

He recommends anyone going to an open farm days farm, to leave their pets at home. They should also bring a cooler in case they buy something at the farm they visit, as well as cash and good, closed toe footwear for walking.

More information, including how to plan a trip, can be found on the Alberta Open Farm Days website.

by Curtis Galbraith

Open Farm Days this weekend

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