SANTA CRUZ COUNTY—The annual Open Farm Tours will return this weekend—albeit in a different capacity.
Pre-registration is now required for small, socially-distanced outdoor tours at the following farms: Thomas Farm and Luz Del Valle Farm in Aptos, and GroundSwell Farm in Santa Cruz. Additional participating venues include Watsonville’s Sierra Azul Nursery, Santa Cruz Cider Company and The Slough Brewing Collective.
This is the first year that Open Farm Tours is requiring fees, with 100% of proceeds going back to the farms. In the case of climate or pandemic emergencies, money will be refunded (minus the Eventbrite fees). Cost varies between farms. Kids 12 and under are free.
The theme of this year’s event is “2020 Insight,” focusing on transforming food systems—from seed planting to meat production. Guests can participate in the tours as well as purchase products. At Luz Del Valle Farm, a coupon for 5lbs of apples is included in the tour fee.
For the safety of guests and farm staff, face masks and social distancing is required at all locations.
Open Farm Tours will also be hosting a free online “Plasticulture” webinar with Healthy Soils about the use of plastics in agriculture. Join the discussion on Oct. 3 from 2-2:30pm.
Visit openfarmtours.com for information about each farm and to pre-register. To stay updated follow Open Farm Tours on Facebook.
