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Tourism, recreation and education
Where farmers are able to use the recreational
or educational value of their farm forests to produce income,
they are effectively ‘selling’ these values. Australian
farmers can generate extra income by providing tours for school
groups, special interest groups, international visitors, other
farmers and the general public. They may also be able to capitalise
on people’s interest in wildlife watching, fishing, bushwalking
and natural heritage by providing accommodation, meals or
other services to complement their forest.
It is not a job that suits everyone, but it can be profitable
for farmers with good communication skills who enjoy public
speaking. Farmers need to consider the time and costs involved
in farm tourism. For example, they need to be aware of the
time involved in planning, preparing and conducting tours.
The farm must be prepared for visitors, additional insurance
might be needed, and time will be lost from other farming
activities. To succeed, a tour must be interesting to guests.
Interest is enhanced by including demonstrations, displays
and handouts, and involving farm staff, neighbours and invited
experts.
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