Agritourism challenge winners

By Sean Feagan, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Three local entrepreneurs have won a contest to develop local agritourism opportunities in the region.

The Agritourism Innovation Challenge was offered to entrepreneurs, farmers and tourism businesses looking to expand their operations and develop new on- and off-farm experiences to grow the tourism sector in the Wild Rose region.

Each business entering the challenge had to pitch proposals for ways to develop their business and incorporate into other local businesses.

Wendy Gerbrandt, community economic development lead with Community Futures Wild Rose in Strathmore, said they are excited to support agritourism development in the region to diversify the local agricultural and tourism sectors.

“We have tremendous assets that showcase our authenticity and uniqueness, and we are excited to assist our leaders move forward in their business,” she said.

While each participant received training, business support and marketing materials, three were selected as winners, all of whom are located in Wheatland County. These three local businesses are proposing a unique array of new business ideas.

Farm-to-table steakhouse and distillery

One of the award winners is Rosemary Wotske of Poplar Bluff Organics, an organic potato farm located south of Strathmore. Wotske hosts outdoor farm-to-table dinners, but is proposing to expand on this experience by building a steakhouse and distillery.

“My goal is to create what will become the favourite destination for couples going out to dinner,” she said.

Wotske is planning on creating a distinctive setting by constructing eye-catching buildings made of unique and natural materials, and featuring historic artifacts throughout the farmyard, such as antique farming equipment. She also plans to offer outdoor fire pits where visitors can cook their own steak or burger if they want.

Wotske plans to incorporate as many local products grown or produced in Wheatland County as possible. “That includes vegetables, meat, beer and wine — all those things,” she said.

To reach her goal, Wotske is completing business planning, including a pre-feasibility study and investment profile. Funding from the challenge will be used for accountants and lawyers to “get the project rolling,” as the farm prepares to apply for the necessary subdivision and rezoning, she said.

Dinner under the stars

Another business owner looking to develop unique dining experiences is BJ Janzen, of Rosebud Country Market in Rosebud.

“Because we have this beautiful town with lots of open space, I want to work towards Rosebud being certified internationally as a dark sky community,” said Janzen. The International Dark Sky Places (IDSP) program encourages communities to preserve and protect dark skies free of light pollution, which facilitates stargazing and other astronomy.

Janzen envisions holding dinners outside under the stars, with participants learning from experts, such as Alan Dyer, a world-renowned astronomical photographer living in Cluny. As a challenge winner, she will receive marketing and other support to develop this initiative.

Rosebud Country Market currently sells a variety of local products online. With the award, Janzen will also study if opening a physical location in Rosebud is feasible. “It’s a town of only 88 people, so I’m not sure the local economy will support a major store there,” she said. “That’s why we’re doing the feasibility study before a business plan.”

Rustic ranch farm stays

Jennifer Franssen of Whispering Cedars Ranch, a sheep farm located just east of Strathmore, won the challenge for her pitch on providing authentic “farm stays,” for people to get a taste of life on the farm, interact with the animals there and stay overnight.

“There’s something about being on a farm and being around animals that’s just invigorating,” said Franssen.

With the farm’s owners, Janna and Ryan Greir (Franssen’s daughter and son-in-law, respectively), the trio are developing two rustic “bunkeys” to house guests. There are also plans for an outdoor kitchen and washroom. The Greirs are currently running a survey on their website to learn more about what people might want from a farm stay.

The farm is a perfect destination for families to learn more about where their food comes from, said Franssen. “It’s a great opportunity for people to come out and have a weekend away and have a closer-to-home vacation.”