NY announces guidance for agri-tourism this fall, with no petting zoos allowed
Photo by Tom Rivers: Claire, 4, of Lyndonville pets a sheep as part of a petting zoo that also included goats and a donkey during the community’s Christmas tree celebration last Dec. 7. There were many activities as part of the community celebration, which was highlighted by 76 trees being lighted up for the holidays. Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced today that petting zoos won’t be allowed this fall for agri-tourism businesses.
Press Release, Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s Office
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced new state guidance for agritourism businesses as New York State enters the Fall season.
The businesses, which include corn mazes, pick-your-own fruit and vegetable operations, hayrides and haunted houses, are considered low-risk outdoor arts and entertainment and are permitted to operate under New York’s NY Forward guidance.
New Yorkers can also visit the state’s farmers’ markets and craft beverage trails, which have remained open under state guidance, supporting agriculture and tourism in the state.
“New York State’s amazing outdoor attractions and recreational opportunities are a boon for families and communities during the fall season each year, and we want New Yorkers to be able to enjoy this time with their family responsibly and safely,” Governor Cuomo said. “The new guidance announced today will ensure that these businesses can open to the public, allowing families to enjoy their favorite fall activities while providing a boost for our farming communities and local economies.”
The businesses that can reopen are subject to Low Risk Outdoor Arts and Entertainment and Public Transportation guidance. Guidance includes, but is not limited to:
- Corn Mazes – permitted consistent with Low Risk Outdoor Arts and Entertainment guidance and the following conditions: Reduced capacity, face coverings required and social distance maintained between individuals/parties.
- Hayrides – permitted consistent with Public Transportation guidance and the following conditions: Mandatory face coverings, social distance required between individuals/parties, frequently touched surfaces, such as handrails, cleaned and sanitized between rides.
- Pick-Your-Own Fruit/Vegetables Operations – permitted consistent with Low Risk Outdoor Arts and Entertainment guidance and the following conditions: Reduced capacity, face coverings required and social distance maintained between individuals/parties.
- Haunted Houses – permitted consistent with Low Risk Indoor Arts and Entertainment guidance and the following conditions: Reduced capacity, face coverings required and social distance maintained between individuals/parties.
- Petting zoos are not permitted.
The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets has issued a full slate of guidelines for the agricultural industry, including guidance for farmers’ markets and for its food and beverage producers. All guidance can be found by clicking here.
“As one of the nation’s top agricultural states, New York traditionally comes together in the fall to celebrate the harvest—from apples to grapes to pumpkins,” said State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball. “This year, while things may not look exactly the same on your favorite farm, I am happy to say we can still celebrate agriculture’s bounty and the many family-friendly activities that go with it. With this new guidance, we hope New Yorkers will be able to enjoy some of the best of New York agriculture in a safe and socially distanced manner.”
