Leadership Union County continued its 2026 program with an engaging Tourism and Agriculture Day on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, led by Abby Thomas and Becca Hughes. The day highlighted the vital roles that agriculture, forestry, tourism, and small business development play in Union County's growth and success.

The cohort began the morning at the UT Extension Office in Maynardville, where participants were welcomed for a full day of presentations and discussions centered around the county’s agricultural heritage and tourism opportunities.

Union County Mayor Jason Bailey addressed the group and emphasized the importance of tourism and agriculture to the local economy. During a roundtable discussion, Mayor Bailey spoke about the impact these industries have on economic development, community identity, and future growth throughout Union County.

Mr. Ben Wilmoth of the Union Farmer’s Co-op then presented information about the services and support the cooperative provides to local farmers and residents. Wilmoth discussed the Co-op’s role in offering soil testing, fertilizer, feed recommendations, seed, and farming supplies, as well as agricultural expertise, that continues to support the farming community across the county.

The cohort also heard from Shawn Hendrickson, Ethan Worthington, and Ray Butler of the Tennessee Department of Forestry. Their presentation focused on the Tennessee Division of Forestry and Chuck Swan State Forest. The group learned about the forestry service’s work in land management, wildfire prevention, and mutual aid efforts that help protect East Tennessee communities from forest fires.

Participants learned that Chuck Swan State Forest covers approximately 24,705 acres and includes 53 cemeteries, 5 picnic areas, and a public firing range. Hendrickson and Worthington also shared information on the educational programming available through the forest, including forestry education, tree identification, landscaping, conservation, and land management opportunities for the public.

Mrs. Shannon DeWitt, Union County UT Extension Agent, spoke to the class about the many services offered through the Extension Office and the importance of agriculture within Union County. She highlighted educational programs, youth development, family and consumer sciences, and agricultural resources available to local residents and farmers.

Following the morning presentations, the cohort traveled to Jones Farm and Livestock located at 935 Hickory Star Road in Maynardville. Trevor Jones and his family shared the story of their expanding agribusiness and introduced the group to their newest venture, The Diner at Jones Farm & Livestock.

The upcoming restaurant will offer a hometown atmosphere featuring breakfast, lunch, dinner, and ice cream. Guests will have the option of dine-in or drive-through service. The Jones family also shared plans to host small livestock auctions at the location while continuing to offer fresh farm beef and freezer beef to customers. Leadership Union County encourages the community to follow The Diner at Jones Farm & Livestock as the business prepares for its grand opening. Please go Like, Follow, and Share The Diner at Jones Farm & Livestock's Facebook page for the latest updates and opening information.

The group then traveled to The Winery at Seven Springs Farm, located at 1474 TN-61 East in Maynardville, for lunch and a farm tour. Rick and Donna Riddle welcomed the cohort and provided an in-depth look at the winery operation, bottling facility, business expansion, farming operations, high tunnels, and farm-to-table products.

The Riddles also led an informative discussion on local agriculture, tourism growth, collaborative business models, alternating proprietorship, and the expanding opportunities within the Nine Lakes of East Tennessee viticultural area. Participants learned about the many ways Union County can continue to capitalize on tourism, agriculture, and regional partnerships to encourage future growth and economic development.

Tourism and Agriculture Day provided Leadership Union County participants with a firsthand look at the businesses, organizations, and individuals working to preserve Union County’s agricultural roots while creating new opportunities for tourism and economic success.

The cohort looks forward to continuing its leadership journey during the next class session on health & Human Services.

For more information about Leadership Union County, visit www.leadershipunioncountytn.com