More Must Be Done To Develop Agri-Tourism In Nova Scotia - Raymond

Wednesday May 21, 2008

Halifax – NDP Tourism and Culture Critic, Michele Raymond, today asked the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage, Bill Dooks, why his department hasn’t done more to develop agri-tourism in Nova Scotia.

“Agri-tourism is a niche market that is ideally suited for development in Nova Scotia. People come to our province to enjoy our Foodways, farms, markets, vineyards and producers have been working independently to capture the attention of tourists, but they need provincial support,” says Raymond. “Why hasn’t more been done to develop this popular niche tourism market?”

The Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture has done some work on agri-tourism, but our tourism department needs to get on board.

“A study was commissioned and released in October 2005 into culinary and agri-tourism. Yet few of its recommendations have been developed beyond the conceptual stage,” says Raymond. “Meanwhile, BC and Alberta have dedicated agri-tourism websites, a branding program, signage for local operators and a generous development program. Why is Nova Scotia so far behind?”

Developing this popular niche tourism market by ensuring Nova Scotia has quality experiences to offer, specifi9c branding and targeted marketing will help agriculture producers, rural communities and tourism operators alike.

“When will the Minister work with his counterparts in Agriculture and Economic Development to fast-track the implementation of agri-tourism policies and development?” asks Raymond.

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