The Lake Country region, between Vernon and Kelowna, is a hidden gem comprised of lush rolling hillsides rich with produce, expansive serene lake views and tranquil vistas as far as the eye can see. Almost half of the land is within the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR), with farming and wine tourism being vital contributors in both preserving the communities' heritage and driving the local economy. The common challenge for local businesses is enticing tourists and travelers to stop in Lake Country, leave the highway and explore the many farmgate businesses and wineries the District has to offer.
Getting travelers, whether travelling from near or far or maybe even a local, to simply stop on their way to bigger centers and ultimately see Lake Country as a destination, is a challenge that the District of Lake Country and the Lake Country Chamber of Commerce has been grappling with since incorporation over 27 years ago. Add a global pandemic to the mix and the result was a huge decline in tourism negatively affecting local businesses. In fact 30% of Lake Country businesses rely on tourism to keep their businesses running.
With tourism showing signs of recovery post-Covid, the District of Lake Country put the power of digital technology along with old school advertising to develop a marketing plan to capture the attention of those itching to safely travel once again. Funding support from the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior (ETSI-BC) allowed The District of Lake Country to accelerate their marketing plans in readiness for the upcoming tourist season but also to capture local day trippers.
The District developed a plan that would generate a robust online presence and visual route markers throughout the region. A responsive and eye-catching website was launched in June, 2022 that assists in providing visitor information on the area in conjunction with utilizing captivating imagery to showcase the community's welcoming atmosphere. User friendly maps highlighting business locations, points of interest, parks and most importantly the Farm Gate Trail helping locals and visitors plan and customize buying fresh produce their travel routes.
Over the past 10 months since the Farm Gate Trail was launched June, 2022 - 44 farms have been added to the program at no cost. Even throughout the winter months farms have reached out asking about the program and how to get involved. The program is free of charge to all farms in Lake Country with success being measured by awareness of agriculture and local fare throughout the community. The program has become extremely popular throughout the community and Council has received many positive comments about the program.
The Okanagan has an abundance of farms and farmers looking for exposure at little to no cost. Often income from seasonal farm fare is required to supplement the farming communities income. In return the community and visitors benefits from fresh local produce while supporting the local economy.
Please review lakecountry.ca as well as the Farm Gate Trail Listings found at https://visitlakecountry.ca/farm-gate-trail/
The online map will show the reader farms who participate in the program - and links to social media sites (if available) that provide the reader more information on the products that are available and when.