Montana Agritourism Fellows

Planting the Seeds: The Montana Agritourism Fellows Program (2022–2024)

Before there was a statewide association, there was a statewide cohort.

In 2022, a group of farmers, ranchers, educators, tourism leaders, and community champions were selected to take part in the Montana Agritourism Fellows Program — a two-year journey to explore the opportunities, challenges, and real-world potential of agritourism in Montana.

Funded by a grant from Western SARE (Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education), this initiative laid the foundation for what would become the Montana Agritourism Association.

A Statewide Learning Journey

Over the course of four immersive seminars held in Helena, Glendive, the Bitterroot Valley, and Billings, the Fellows gained hands-on knowledge in:

• Agritourism business models and sustainability

• Risk management and regulatory considerations

• Marketing and communication tailored to farm-based experiences

• Visitor experience design and tourism industry partnerships

Each seminar featured site visits, practical workshops, and conversations with producers already welcoming guests onto their land. The goal? To build not just individual capacity, but a network of peers working together to shape the future of agritourism in Montana.

Real Impact, Lasting Legacy

The Fellows program didn't end with a certificate — it launched a movement.

Key outcomes of the Western SARE grant include:

• Creation of a digital resource hub for agritourism educators and practitioners

• A state-level strategic plan for expanding agritourism opportunities

• The first Montana Agritourism Conference, held in Bozeman in 2024

• And most importantly… the founding of the Montana Agritourism Association, to carry the work forward

This program proved that when we connect producers, educators, and community leaders around a shared vision, good things grow.

Learn more about the project and read the final report here: Western SARE Project: Montana Agritourism Fellows Program