Post by Logan on Mar 21, 2016 6:12:59 GMT -6
Pick-your-own produce, farm-to-table meals, corn mazes, petting zoos and weddings: New Hampshire farmers are finding new ways to attract customers and stay viable.
But while many communities have welcomed such innovations, some have pushed back against what they see as the commercial nature of some of these “agritourism” activities.
Last year, the state Supreme Court ruled against a Henniker tree farmer who wanted to hold weddings, retreats and other gatherings on his property. The court found that agritourism was not included in the definition of agriculture under state law and that the farmer's proposed use of his land was not a permitted “agricultural use.”
That prompted lawmakers to act.
And supporters say two agritourism bills now in the Legislature would help protect farmers' rights to hold such events, while at the same time preserving local control.
See more at: www.unionleader.com/Growing-pains:-Farmers,-lawmakers-grapple-with-how-land-can-be-used
But while many communities have welcomed such innovations, some have pushed back against what they see as the commercial nature of some of these “agritourism” activities.
Last year, the state Supreme Court ruled against a Henniker tree farmer who wanted to hold weddings, retreats and other gatherings on his property. The court found that agritourism was not included in the definition of agriculture under state law and that the farmer's proposed use of his land was not a permitted “agricultural use.”
That prompted lawmakers to act.
And supporters say two agritourism bills now in the Legislature would help protect farmers' rights to hold such events, while at the same time preserving local control.
See more at: www.unionleader.com/Growing-pains:-Farmers,-lawmakers-grapple-with-how-land-can-be-used