The Loudoun County Department of Economic Development has started planning for the 2012 Spring Farm Tour scheduled for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, May 19, and Sunday, May 20. The Spring Farm Tour is held annually and is a free self-guided tour showcasing local, active farms in the county.

The goal of the Spring Farm Tour is to promote Loudoun County’s farms and agricultural community by sponsoring a weekend tourism event to increase awareness and educate the public about agriculture and the rural economy in Loudoun. The weekend event is also used as a teaching mechanism to inform consumers of what products are grown and available locally. With 35 farms/venues and 14 wineries participating last year, the Tour weekend attracted approximately 9,000 visitors.

Farmers who would like to participate are encouraged to contact Coco Lyons, marketing coordinator with the Loudoun County Department of Economic Development, at 703-737-8322 or by email at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) to request an application and a copy of the Tour Policies and Guidelines. Information is also available at http://www.loudounfarms.org.

Completed applications must be received at the Department of Economic Development by close of business on Friday, March 16.

Brochures for the Spring Farm Tour, including a map and directions to all participating farms, along with the 2012 Buy Fresh Buy Local Product Guide will be available locally at Loudoun County libraries, community centers, and Visit Loudoun in Leesburg. Detailed tour information will also be available at http://www.loudounfarms.org.