1/25/2011
The West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA) is seeking entries for the 2011 Agritourism Media Awards, to be presented at the West Virginia Small Farm Conference February 17-19, at Lakeview Resort near Morgantown. There is no entry fee. Deadline for submissions is February 1.
The purpose of the Agritourism Media Awards is to celebrate and recognize excellence in advertising and promotion of West Virginia Agritourism destinations and attractions.
“Agritourism is an important segment of the state’s agriculture and tourism industries, and I believe it will be a critical component to the economic well-being of many West Virginia farms,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Gus R. Douglass.
WVDA Marketing and Development Director Jean Smith added, “We’ve really stressed agritourism as a way to create a link between farms and consumers. As people become more conscious of the farms that are around them, they will be more likely to include local foods in their diets.”
Types of entries include brochures, rack cards, photos and websites. Ribbons will be presented during the February 17 Conference Luncheon. Entrants do not have to attend the Conference, but must purchase a ticket for the luncheon if they wish to participate in the awards presentation.
“Just building it is not enough,” said contest organizer Debra Gard, WVDA marketing specialist. “Marketing is an integral part of the success of any agritourism attraction. Past entrants have shown great creativity and we want to encourage and recognize quality marketing efforts.”
Entry materials must be mailed to WVDA, Marketing & Development Division, 1900 Kanawha Blvd. E., Charleston, WV 25305. Entries will be displayed for the duration of the Conference.
Questions should be directed to WVDA Marketing Specialist Debra Gard at 304-932-7588, or
dgard@wvda.us. Entry forms and details can be downloaded at the WVDA website at
http://www.wvagriculture.org. For more information about the Small Farm Conference, visit
http://smallfarmcenter.ext.wvu.edu/home.
Contact Information
Gus R. Douglass
douglass@ag.state.wv.us