Improving Accessibility at Elf Leaf Farm — Supported by ACRE

A More Accessible Farm Experience

At Elf Leaf Farm, our mission is to create meaningful, welcoming experiences for every visitor.

Over the past several seasons, we’ve welcomed a growing number of guests—including seniors, mobility-limited visitors, and tour groups—who want to enjoy the beauty of our lavender fields but face challenges navigating uneven terrain.

To better serve all of our guests, we made a commitment to improve accessibility across the farm.

That commitment is now a reality.


The Accessibility Project

With support from the Agribusiness Center for Research and Entrepreneurship (ACRE), we completed a major infrastructure improvement:

  • Replaced 214 feet of mulched pathways with permanent concrete sidewalks
  • Created stable, wheelchair-friendly access to key visitor areas
  • Improved safety and ease of movement throughout the farm
  • Enhanced accessibility for:
    • Seniors
    • Guests using wheelchairs or walkers
    • Families with strollers

These new pathways provide a firm, consistent surface that allows more visitors to comfortably experience our fields, shop, and participate in farm activities.


📸 Before & After


Before: After removing the mulched pathway, we framed the path and got ready for concrete.


After: Smooth, durable concrete pathways provide safe, reliable access for all visitors.

214 feet of improved access—made possible through ACRE support.


🌿 Why This Matters

Accessibility is not just an upgrade—it’s a reflection of who we are.

At Elf Leaf Farm, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to:

  • Walk through the lavender fields
  • Participate in U-Pick experiences
  • Enjoy time outdoors with family and friends

These improvements allow us to better serve our community while continuing to grow as a destination for agritourism in South Carolina.


🌸 About ACRE

The Agribusiness Center for Research and Entrepreneurship (ACRE) is an initiative of the South Carolina Department of Agriculture focused on strengthening and growing agribusiness across the state.

ACRE is not simply a grant program—it is a comprehensive agribusiness development platform that combines:

  • Business education and entrepreneurship training
  • Applied research to expand market opportunities
  • Strategic support for farm and agribusiness growth
  • Competitive funding opportunities

Through this integrated approach, ACRE helps agricultural operations build stronger, more sustainable businesses while contributing to the long-term vitality of South Carolina’s rural economy.


🌿 ACRE’s Impact

ACRE supports farms and agribusinesses by:

  • Advancing innovation in agriculture and agritourism
  • Supporting value-added product development
  • Strengthening business planning and financial sustainability
  • Expanding market access and customer engagement

This work ensures that farms are not only preserved—but positioned to grow, adapt, and thrive.


🌞 Our Participation

Elf Leaf Farm participated in the ACRE program and was awarded funding to support accessibility improvements across the farm.

This project reflects ACRE’s mission in action—helping farms invest in infrastructure that enhances both business viability and visitor experience.

We are proud to be part of a statewide effort that strengthens agriculture, supports innovation, and improves access for all.


🙏 With Gratitude

We are deeply grateful for the support provided through ACRE and the South Carolina Department of Agriculture.

This project represents more than improved pathways—it reflects a continued commitment to:

  • Accessibility
  • Hospitality
  • Community connection

We look forward to welcoming you to Elf Leaf Farm and inviting you to experience these improvements firsthand.