Food + Farm being recognized at state level
By Patrick Lynn
PLOVER — The Food + Farm Exploration Center is one of four organizations being recognized for their contributions to the state’s agritourism industry.
The Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association has nominated the FFEC for the 2025 Governor’s Tourism Awards.
The center, nominated for the Bright IDEA Award, offers a range of features designed to enhance visitor accessibility, including an ADA-compliant agriculture simulator, a wellness room for individuals with sensory sensitivities, and wheelchair-accessible exhibits. The center also provides Braille signage, cane strikes, adjustable-height tables, and discounted admission through the Museums for All program for families receiving SNAP benefits.
Beyond its accessibility initiatives, the Food + Farm Exploration Center has engaged in community outreach efforts, including free U-Pick Harvest events that have donated more than 5,500 pounds of produce, field trip grants for underserved students, and adaptive cooking activities for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
Other nominees include Skelly’s Farm Market in Janesville, which has been recognized for innovation in agritourism through its use of smartphone-integrated corn mazes, and Fort Atkinson’s Busy Barn Farm Adventures, honored as a rising star in the industry for its rapid growth and hands-on agricultural education programs.
The Green Bay Packers 2025 NFL Draft Team was also nominated for its efforts to promote Wisconsin agritourism, including collaborations on NFL-themed corn mazes across the state.
“These nominees exemplify the spirit of Wisconsin tourism—bringing fresh ideas, exceptional service, and unforgettable experiences to visitors,” said Sheila Everhart, executive director of the Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association. “Their contributions drive economic growth and solidify our state’s reputation as a top-tier agricultural tourism destination.”
Winners of the 2025 Governor’s Tourism Awards will be announced March 11 during the Wisconsin Governor’s Conference on Tourism.