Agritourism as a Solution to Rural Revitalization: The Case Study of Brock, Ontario

Abstract

The agricultural and agri-food industry has a prevalent, long-standing history as a successful cornerstone industry in Ontario. This historical prevalence stands true for the central rural township of Brock, Ontario as agriculture and livestock are a driving force in the township’s economy. However, throughout the last three decades, agricultural production in Ontario’s rural townships have been negatively impacted by vertical integration, globalization, and the intensification of land-based activities (Wicks & Merrett, 2003). Therefore, the aim of this research study is to determine if agritourism is a viable solution to aid in revitalizing the rural township of Brock, Ontario. This research is imperative for farm operators in rural Ontario because small family farms are seeking ways to remain economically competitive against the pressures of urbanization and changing global markets. The objectives of this research study necessitate in-depth information-gathering which will be gained from conducting semi-structured interviews with individuals whom are members of the Beaverton Agricultural Society, the Sunderland Agricultural Society, or the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA). This research will provide information about why farmers decided to diversify their farms through agritourism, how agritourism has helped farming businesses (if at all), and what strategies farmers used to implement agritourism into their traditional farming practices. The findings of this research study will be utilized by for farm operators that have integrated agritourism practices into their traditional farming practices and for government programs and policies to support farm operators.