West Virginia’s agritourism community came together on Monday, Dec.8, in Morgantown for a special event celebrating the continued growth of the state’s agritourism industry and the official launch of Naturally West Virginia, a new statewide network and website dedicated to connecting and promoting agritourism experiences across the Mountain State, led by West Virginia University Extension.
Hosted by Dee Singh-Knights, WVU Extension agricultural economics specialist, the event honored agritourism operators recognized as inaugural members of the Naturally West Virginia network. These businesses represent the creativity, entrepreneurship, and community spirit driving new opportunities for rural development and tourism in West Virginia.
“Naturally West Virginia is more than a website, it’s a celebration of the people and places that make our state unique,” said Singh-Knights. “By connecting farms, markets, wineries, distilleries, and other agritourism destinations, we’re helping to grow rural economies, preserve Appalachian traditions, and share the authentic story of West Virginia with visitors near and far.”
Attendees enjoyed farm-to-finger eats, engaging discussions, and networking with agritourism operators, business partners, and community leaders who are shaping the future of the industry. The event also highlighted the impact of agritourism on local economies and celebrate the collaborations that continue to strengthen the state’s agricultural and tourism sectors.
The West Virginia Agritourism Initiative and Naturally West Virginia work together to support local agritourism businesses, promote sustainable economic development, and showcase authentic farm and rural experiences that reflect the state’s rich heritage.
For more information, visit extension.wvu.edu/agriculture/agritourism.
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cb/hb/12/8/2025