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10-3-05

FALL FARM FUN ABOUNDS IN MOUNTAIN STATE

Agritourism is the fastest growing segment of the tourism industry and West Virginia 's agribusinesses are capitalizing on out-of-state visitors' appetites for a laid-back, rural experience. But even if you've lived your entire life in the Mountain State , you can still have a grand time enjoying the following attractions.

"Whether it's the rural scenery or the hospitality of its people, West Virginia has a lot to offer," said Commissioner of Agriculture Gus R. Douglass. "Farmers are beginning to realize that they can supplement their incomes by developing new uses for their land. Agritourism puts money in their pockets and gives the public a better appreciation of where their food comes from."

• Capitol and Inwood Markets - Celebrate the fall with West Virginia 's bounteous produce. The Capitol Market in Charleston , from now until October 31, becomes the state's largest pumpkin patch. The Inwood Farmers' Market, near Martinsburg, sits in the heart of the West Virginia 's orchard industry and has the freshest apples anywhere. 
• Fall Festivals in the Mountain State - Don't forget to join in the autumn fun at two major agricultural fairs and festivals this fall, The West Virginia Pumpkin Festival and West Virginia Black Walnut Festival. The Pumpkin Festival, located at Pumpkin Park in Milton , will take place October 6-9, 2005 . In Spencer, the Black Walnut Festival will be held October 13-16, 2005 .
• Visit the new owners of Morgan Orchard in Monroe County . The state's southernmost orchard features pick-your-own apples, fresh baked pies and fruit jams for a delicious afternoon visit to the farm.
• At Orr's Farm Market in Martinsburg, visitors can gather pumpkins in the field, visit their gift shop and picnic at their orchard and farm. 
• Looking for more information on agriculture and farming? Cummins Family Farm in Murraysville invites you to visit their "Pizza Patch." Guests will learn the plants and materials involved in making their favorite pizza and have an opportunity to make their own pizza pie.
• DeFluri's Fine Chocolates in Martinsburg and Holl's Chocolates in Vienna can supply all of your Halloween candy needs. Visit their unique shops and bring home extra goodies for the neighbors - it won't just be the kids knocking at the door!

For more information about agritourism attractions in West Virginia , call the West Virginia Department of Agriculture's Marketing and Development Division at 304-558-2210, or visit www.wvagriculture.org.

The West Virginia Department of Agriculture protects plant, animal and human health through a variety of scientific, regulatory and consumer protection programs, as mandated by state law. The Commissioner of Agriculture is one of six statewide elected officials in West Virginia. Currently, Commissioner Gus R. Douglass is the longest-serving agriculture commissioner in the nation. For more information, visit www.wvagriculture.org.

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