This weekend is the start of the Ag and Art Tour in South Carolina. Tell us a bit about it, Commissioner.

The South Carolina Ag + Art Tour is a free, self-guided tour of farms and markets with local artists and artisans at every stop.

Each county that participates has a committee that organizes its own series of stops.

Great opportunity to see first-hand where your food comes, buy art, and learn more about rural life.

The Ag + Art Tour has had over 150,000 visitors since its launch in 2012.

Spearheaded by Clemson Extension, with support from our Agribusiness Center for Research and Entrepreneurship.

The tour takes place in 22 counties across the state throughout May and June.

This weekend there are tours in Hampton County, Lancaster County, and McCormick County.

To participate, visit www.agandarttour.com.

• Pick a weekend (or several) and see what farms, markets and artisans will be featured in each county.
• Choose tour sites to visit, being aware that you might not be able to see everything in one day.
• Load up your car with your friends and family and begin your tour! You can start at any tour site. Bring a cooler and pick up some fresh veggies, let your kids the farm, and watch artists in action.

Remember, the tour is free, with no admission at any stop. I hope you get to see some of our beautiful rural areas of the state and connect with some farmers.