The Lakes Region Virtual Farm Tour is a demonstration of how internet mapping, a form of Geographic Information System, can be used as an economic development planning tool. The tour contains a sample of the wide array of farms located in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. The Lakes Region Planning Commission believes this model can be used by others to include a broader range of farms, or in support of fields other than agriculture.

       Farms have an important role in this region, including enriching the rural character, economics, and beauty while providing local products and services for its people, visitors, and businesses. “For years, New Hampshire farmers have served as stewards of the land water resources, and provided habitat for native plants and animals.*” Today, supporting our local farms is important and necessary, as we strive to sustain and improve the outlook of our region and its people.

       The Lakes Region Virtual Farm Tour was created by the Lakes Region Planning Commission, funded by a 2007 NH Office of Energy and Planning Targeted Block Grant. A subcommittee was formed to identify potential tour participants and included, Herb Cooper (Tamworth, NH), John Hodsdon (Meredith, NH), and Robert Ward (Andover, NH). Additional advice was requested from Amy Ouellette (Extension Educator, Agricultural Resources & Environmental Stewardship at UNH Cooperative Extension) and Gail McWilliam Jellie (Director, Division of Agricultural Development). Farmers were then invited to participate in the Tour. Interested parties were interviewed and photographs were taken or pre-existing ones were gathered.

The product of these efforts is the Lakes Region Virtual Farm Tour.