Agritourism Visiting a farm, ranch, pumpkin patch or corn maze can be a fun an educational experience. Agritourism connects rural and urban communities and provides opportunities for people to experience Colorado agriculture.

Beginning Farmer Program.  The Colorado Agricultural Development Authority (CADA) provides tax-exempt bonds for low-interest financing of land or equipment purchases. Individuals must qualify as beginning farmers to participate in this program. A beginning farmer is defined as a person who does not own more than 30% of the median county farm size.

Advancing Colorado's Renewable Energy (ACRE) Program.  This program offers grants for energy-related and value-added projects that benefit the agricultural industry.

Fruit & Vegetable Inspection.  The Fruit and Vegetable Section provides a quality inspection service to the produce industry of Colorado. Peaches, apples, potatoes, sweet corn, onions, broccoli and lettuce as well as other products are inspected by this service. The inspection service ensures the shipment of high quality fruits and vegetables and enhances Colorado's reputation as a supplier of superior produce.

Good Agricultural Practices/Good Handling Practices Audit Verification Program.   This service is an audit based verification program developed to help the U.S. produce industry minimize microbial food safety hazards. This program's personnel review a participating company's facility and agronomic practices, along with its documented procedures, to help determine if "Good Agricultural Practices" and "Good Handling Practices" are maintained.

Market News. Marketing specialists provide price and volume data on cattle and fresh produce sold in Colorado markets.

Market Orders   are producer-funded programs which collect assessments on farm commodities for promotion, research, education and, in some cases, inspections for quality. The Markets Division is responsible for establishing, enforcing and overseeing the administration of market orders.

Seal of Quality is an inspection and labeling program that differentiates Colorado fresh produce of the highest quality. The program is voluntary, but if producers or packers choose to market products with the Colorado Seal of Quality, they must meet standards established by the industry.

Specialty Crop Program (information and application)

The Centennial Farm Program recognizes the importance of agriculture in Colorado by honoring the contributions made by our long-standing farm and ranch families. Centennial farms and ranches must be owned by the same family for more than 100 years. Application deadline is April 30 of each year.

Transportation. Information and links to assist with transportation issues.