Knaebe’s Apple Farm and Ciderworks, located near Rogers City, is just one agritourism destination in Michigan.

In a recent press release, MDARD describes agritourism as a subindustry within agriculture that encourages families and individuals to visit pumpkin patches, orchards, and wineries for “unique farm experiences.”

MDARD states that October is “the perfect time for family-friendly fun at any of the hundreds of agritourism farms and orchards across Michigan.”

The proclamation from MDARD and Whitmer celebrates and recognizes the economic and social benefits of agritourism for Michigan farms and communities.

Courtesy Photo Knaebe’s main building is seen on the farm located near Rogers City. Knaebe’s is just one of many farms that contribute to Michigan’s agritourism industry.

“Agritourism connects Michigan families to locally grown food and beverages while enabling farmers to diversify and build resiliency into their businesses,” MDARD Director Tim Boring said in the release. “MDARD is proud to support Michigan agritourism operators that strengthen our food and agriculture industry, boost agricultural education and improve quality of life for Michiganders.”

Scott Kromer and his wife, Alison Paoletti Kromer, own Knaebe’s, which has become a fall destination for Northeast Michigan residents and visitors. Knaebe’s offers varieties of apples, doughnuts, ciders, pizza, and more to sample. They also have yard games, a pumpkin patch, wagon rides, a petting zoo, apple picking, and more.

Scott Kromer said September and October are the peak months for Knaebe’s, which has become a destination and a tradition for families.

“Most people come for the atmosphere .. the fall vibes,” Scott Kromer said. “Some of it is just a fall thing to do … to go to an orchard.”

Scott Kromer stated that they frequently have customers visit from across the country and abroad. He said Knaebe’s is about the experience.

“It’s kind of different from traditional farming,” he added.

Alison Paoletti Kromer said the benefits of Knaebe’s is that they get to directly sell their product to consumers.

“I think that the best part is that we get to interact with our customers,” she added. “You know these apples were picked within a few days.”

MDARD states that agritourism “provides an opportunity to celebrate Michigan’s thriving food and agriculture industry.”

According to MDARD, agritourism supports Michigan’s food and agriculture industry, worth nearly $126 billion. Agritourism also supports Michigan’s tourism industry, worth nearly $54.8 billion.

“It offers farmers the opportunity to diversify their businesses, which can help them stay viable during adverse weather conditions and market fluctuations,” MDARD stated in the release. “Michigan Agritourism Month is a special time to acknowledge and experience the vast, integrated network of family farmers, processors, wholesalers, and retailers who produce a safe and nutritious food supply.”

Kayla Wikaryasz can be reached at 989-358-5688 or kwikaryasz@TheAlpenaNews.com.