Straus Farm — A New Driver of Agritourism in the Fergana Valley
Straus Farm is an agritourism complex and ostrich farm located in Rishtan, Fergana Region, Uzbekistan. The company offers a unique opportunity to visit an ostrich breeding facility, observe the process of ostrich rearing, and purchase products made from ostrich eggs and leather. The farm also provides agritourism services, including guided tours of the premises and demonstrations of production processes.
History of the ostrich Farm
Straus Farm began operations in 2015 with the purchase of 200 African ostrich chicks from South Africa. An incubator was acquired for egg incubation, and in March 2016, the first hatchlings were successfully produced.
Currently, the farm occupies 14.5 hectares, with 3 hectares dedicated to the ostrich farm and the remaining area used for cultivating cereal crops. Plans are underway to expand the flock to 4,000–6,000 birds, which will require increased land area and infrastructure development.
Zero-Waste Production Approach
The ostrich farm follows a zero-waste production model, utilizing nearly all parts of the bird: meat, leather, eggs, feathers, fat, claws, and bones.
Ostrich meat is low in cholesterol and considered a dietary product. Ostrich leather is used to manufacture various items such as footwear and accessories. Ostrich eggs are consumed as food, while the eggshells are used to create decorative crafts. Feathers are employed in making carnival costumes and antistatic dusters. Ostrich fat is utilized in the cosmetics industry, and claws and bones are used in decorative art and the production of bone meal.
Attracting Tourists to Straus Farm
Straus Farm actively develops agritourism by offering visitors unique experiences that combine recreation and education. The farm attracts both domestic and international tourists through a range of services and activities related to ostrich breeding and rural life.
Visitors can learn about ostrich rearing, observe various stages of growth and development, and gain insight into the production technology of ostrich meat and related products.
The farm also offers tasting experiences of ostrich meat and egg delicacies and sells products made from ostrich leather and feathers.
Tourists may participate in workshops on crafting souvenirs from ostrich feathers and leather, offering insight into the region’s traditional handicrafts.
On-site accommodations and dining facilities are available, enabling tourists to spend several days enjoying rural relaxation and natural surroundings.
Impact on the Local Community and Economy
The development of agritourism based on Straus Farm contributes to the improvement of the economic situation in the Rishtan District. The farm creates employment opportunities for local residents and stimulates the growth of related industries such as hospitality, food services, and handicrafts.
Furthermore, the farm actively collaborates with local authorities and tourism organizations to promote agritourism in the region by participating in exhibitions, festivals, and other events aimed at attracting visitors to the Fergana Region.
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