Local Impact Visit Sarasota County
One of the most fun collaborations of the last 10 years has been the partnership between Edible Sarasota magazine and Visit Sarasota County, the official tourism and marketing entity for our county, to create the Sarasota Bradenton Farm Guide. Leadership at both organizations were inspired by a myriad of farm experiences, including visiting farmers markets during travel, as well as outstanding excursions to local farms. Together they used their strengths and local connections to develop the eagerly anticipated annual Farm Guide.
Asked about her connection to the yearly Farm Guide, Erin Duggan, vice president of Visit Sarasota County, recalls afternoon journeys to Dakin Dairy Farm and Fruitville Groves with her children. Prior to creating the guide, she was only familiar with a handful of area farms, specifically those that offered enhanced adventures for children. She also emphasizes that she places high importance on visiting farmers markets wherever she travels, to help her establish a sense of place and acquaint herself with the local community.
The Farm Guide began as a simple pamphlet referring visitors and locals to Sarasota farms and markets, appealing to a specific niche of individuals seeking out a farm experience. As the importance of farm-to-table dining and cooking has popularized, the guide has evolved. In its current iteration, the Farm Guide features not only a list of local farms and markets but also farm- and food-based festivals—for those who want to celebrate. Community gardens have their own section of the guide, for those who want to try their hand at urban farming or simply visit a calming garden setting. Also included is a handy section outlining seasonal vegetables and when to buy them, perfect for the home cook looking to maximize their local reach.
According to Duggan, tourists don’t see county lines. So to accommodate their explorations, the Farm Guide includes farms and activities as far south as Charlotte County and, of course, our neighbor to the north, Manatee County. This year, the guide also includes DeSoto County, which is situated just east of Sarasota County and is by far the most agricultural locale in the mix. A comprehensive map is included in the guide, and highlights farms stands, farm tours, U-pick farms, and CSAs in all three counties, so visitors can choose their own adventure.
When asked to choose a favorite farm, Duggan declined, explaining that each year she and her family find themselves searching for a new farm experience. What began as petting zoos and pumpkin patches has now evolved into exploring produce at Worden Farms. Next year will likely bring new interests for her family, but one thing is for sure: She’ll be using the Sarasota Bradenton Farm Guide to lead the way.
