Source: NCDA&CS, 7/8/14

 Annie Baggett has joined the Marketing Division team as Agritourism Marketing Specialist. She replaces Martha Glass who retired.

Baggett brings an impressive and unique array of experiences to her new role, including experience in marketing and on-the-farm experience at her family’s business, Sunshine Lavender Farm in Hurdle Mills.

“My husband and I started the farm in 2000.  At first we wanted to have a community vegetable garden, but soon discovered that deer were our “community,” Baggett said.  Her farm benefited from the advice and networking opportunities provided by the NCDA&CS Agritourism office.  

“I’ve always admired the office and the work its done,” Baggett said.  “My background has always been in marketing and owning a farm has also given me a unique insight into the challenges and opportunities Agritourism farms face every day.”

There are more than 670 farms in North Carolina engaged in Agritourism.  Baggett’s goal is to elevate the awareness and allure of agritourism across the state. “Some of the immediate needs include encouraging the farms to update their General Store Website and put into place communication mechanisms such as a newsletter,” she said. Baggett also wants to meet and help farmers look for cross-marketing opportunities in their communities.

Annie Baggett can be reached at annie.baggett@ncagr.gov