5-19-2005 |
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NEWS ADVISORY AGRITOURISM SURVEY RESULTS TO BE RELEASED MAY 24 The West Virginia Department of Agriculture, the Division of Tourism and the Department of Commerce will unveil the results of the first-ever agritourism survey at a press conference at Capitol Market's Center Court Tuesday, May 24 at 1 p.m. The survey questioned business owners about the attractions offered, barriers to growing their businesses, and the types of assistance they would find helpful. Results are being used to develop a directory of agritourism business and to produce a strategic plan to promote and develop the industry. Changes in demographics and vacationing habits have made agritourism the hottest niche in the tourism industry, according to many industry experts. West Virginia's abundant natural resources and its nation-leading percentage of family-owned farms make it an ideal state for developing agritourism enterprises, say state officials. Commissioner of Agriculture Gus R. Douglass, Commerce Cabinet Secretary L. Thomas Bulla and Tourism Commissioner Betty Carver will speak and take questions. A variety of agritourism business owners will also be on hand for interviews.
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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