October is the perfect time of year to find an area farm that welcomes the public to come enjoy the harvest season.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed October as Michigan Agritourism Month, encouraging residents to visit any of the hundreds of agritourism farms and orchards across Michigan during the crisp autumn days.

The celebration recognizes the economic and social benefits of agritourism to the state’s farms and communities and provides a chance to recognize Michigan’s thriving food and agriculture industry, state officials said in a news release.

“Agritourism connects Michigan families to locally grown food and beverages while enabling farmers to diversify and build resiliency into their businesses,” said Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Director Tim Boring. “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.”

Agritourism supports Michigan’s nearly $126 billion food and agriculture industry and $54.8 billion tourism industry. It offers farmers the opportunity to diversify their businesses, which can help them stay viable during adverse weather conditions and market fluctuations,

Michigan’s agritourism destinations include:

— U-Pick apple orchards;

— Pumpkin patches;

— Corn mazes;

— Farmers markets;

— On-farm markets;

— Roadside produce stands;

— Wineries; and

— On-farm celebrations and events.

Many Michigan farms have agritourism opportunities year-round, but Agritourism Month is celebrated in October at the peak of harvest and during a time when people traditionally visit farms, pumpkin patches and cider mills.

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, as well as provide fun and unique farm experiences.

Throughout the month of October, MDARD will feature examples of Michigan agritourism businesses on its social media channels. Follow along to experience Michigan agritourism at its best.

Go www.MichiganFarmFun.com for a directory of Michigan agritourism businesses. The directory is searchable by business name, product and region.