Source: NCDA&CS, 9/22/20


Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler sits down each week with Southern Farm Network’s Mike Davis to discuss “Today’s Topic.”

As the calendar officially shifts to fall, you’ll start to see more agritourism activities taking place. DHHS recently issued guidance for fall-related events for ensuring safe operations. 

Today’s Topic
Summary of talking points:
• Today is officially the first day of fall – one of my favorite times of the year. It is often a busy time of the year for farms that host agritourism events.
• This year, things may look a little different because of COVID-19 and social distancing, but many farms will be holding modified events and I would encourage you to check them out if you are looking for something to do.
• The Department of Health and Human Services recently released guidance for fall-related events to ensure their safe operation during this time of COVID.
• I know our agritourism operations appreciated this guidance in helping them open this fall.
• We have posted the guidance to our COVID resources page and farms, wineries and other agritourism operations can find a link to it at www.ncagr.gov. This guidance lists things
• As a guest, please do your part too to minimize the risk of spreading COVID-19.
• Remember: Don’t go if you do not feel well, practice social distancing, wear a mask and wash your hand often.
• I know families continue to look for fun activities to do together and outdoor events at a farm such as pick-your-own pumpkins, apples and grapes, or corn mazes can offer safe activities.
• With limits on the number of people allowed in spaces at any given time, it is a good idea to call ahead and check to see if a farm offers timed entry.
• In fact, I’d recommend calling ahead to be sure you understand what is being offered and any special requirements that are in place.
• To kick-off the fall agritourism season, we will be featuring a week of stories on agritourism farms on the department’s In the Field blog and Facebook page. Just go to Facebook and search for NCAgriculture and we will share the stories from the blog there.
• Keep wearing your masks, practice social distancing and washing your hands. We are going to get through this.