Discover Richland - Harvest Horizons Tour

Description

Experience a full‑day, behind‑the‑scenes exploration of how agriculture drives Richland County’s economy, culture, and community life. This immersive tour takes you into the heart of the region’s food, farming, and innovation ecosystem, connecting you with the growers, makers, entrepreneurs, and organizations shaping the county’s agricultural future. You’ll see firsthand how diverse operations, from maple syrup production and feed milling to agritourism, conservation, and urban farming, work together to strengthen local industries, support workforce development, and fuel both rural and urban growth. Along the way, you’ll meet the people whose leadership, creativity, and commitment continue to move Richland County forward.

Tour Highlights

• OSU‑Mansfield Maple Syrup Initiative - Explore acreage, tree count, and sap‑to‑syrup production.
• Richland County Fairgrounds Show Arena - Learn about fair board operations and events, and hear about junior fair programming and youth development.
• The Blueberry Patch - Enjoy lunch and a discussion of operations at Ohio’s largest blueberry farm.
• Elzy Milling & Trade - Tour the facility to learn about feed production, the retail ag shop, and the future of small‑business agriculture. At this stop, Beekeeper David Duncan will share about his hives and the Richland Area Beekeepers Association.
• Kleerview Farm - Visit a working farm known for its reindeer and family‑friendly experiences.
• NECIC Urban Farm - Discover how urban agriculture supports local food systems and neighborhood revitalization.

Throughout the day, participants will also hear from regional leaders who support and strengthen the agricultural ecosystem. The Richland County Farm Bureau will share its mission of sustaining a robust farming community. Destination Mansfield‑Richland County will highlight the Wine & Ale Trail and other agritourism assets. The Richland Soil & Water Conservation District will discuss conservation and agriculture programs. Braintree Business Development Center will explore entrepreneurship in the agritourism space.

Participants will:

• Build meaningful connections with business, government, education, and nonprofit leaders driving regional progress.
• Explore current and emerging economic development initiatives shaping Richland County’s future across agriculture, innovation, and community investment.
• Experience behind‑the‑scenes access to high‑impact sites and operations that demonstrate the county’s economic strengths.
• Strengthen their understanding of regional collaboration and how cross‑sector partnerships fuel long‑term prosperity.

Who Should Attend
The tour welcomes leaders at every level, from C‑suite executives and business owners to directors, managers, emerging leaders, and community members who want to better understand Richland County’s economic landscape and strengthen local connections.