5-2-2005 |
|
|
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC MAP FEATURES STATE AGRICULTURE ATTRACTIONS National Geographic Traveler Magazine is featuring nine agriculturally based attractions in West Virginia on a "Geotourism of Appalachia" map included in its April issue. More than 40 sites in West Virginia - and about 350 overall - were featured, including festivals, craft shops, historical sites and scenic attractions. Agricultural or food-based attractions appearing on the map include Blue Smoke Salsa in Ansted, Tamarack in Beckley , Country Club Bakery in Fairmont , Thistledew Farms near New Martinsville, Showcase WV in Charleston , the Black Walnut Festival in Spencer, Kilmarnock Farm near Sutton and the Heritage Farm Museum and Hillbilly Hotdogs, both located near Huntington . "It's wonderful that these attractions are seen as central to the culture and history of our state," said Commissioner of Agriculture Gus R. Douglass . "The rural lifestyle that still exists in this state is what makes West Virginia such a desirable tourist destination." "I'm absolutely thrilled to be included on this map," said Blue Smoke Salsa owner Robin Hildebrand. "Not only will this increase awareness of out-of-state visitors, it will also increase our visibility to West Virginia residents who may not know about the wonderful agricultural products and attractions our state has to offer." The "Appalachia Geotourism MapGuide" is the first project of its kind for the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), which spearheaded the effort to stimulate economic development by showcasing the region's natural, cultural and heritage attractions. The map is funded by a grant from the ARC, and was prepared by National Geographic Maps and tourism organizations within the 13-state region. While supplies are limited, the Division of Tourism will provide maps free to callers. To request copies, please call 1-800-CALL WVA. The Appalachian Regional Commission is distributing the maps to libraries and schools throughout the region.
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. |
|
|
|
|
©2001, 2002 West Virginia Department of Agriculture, All Rights Reserved |
|
|
Contact the Webmaster
|
|
|
|