PENGEMBANGAN EKONOMI LOKAL MELALUI AGROWISATA JAMBU KRISTAL KELOMPOK TANI BUMIAJI SEJAHTERA DI DESA BUMIAJI KOTA BATU

This study is entitled “The Role of Village Agrotourism in Local Economic Development (A Study in Bumiaji Village, Bumiaji District, Batu City)” and is motivated by the large number of agrotourism operators who have gone out of business due to the decline in soil quality resulting from the use of chemicals on apple crops and the high maintenance costs that are not commensurate with the selling price of the harvest. This situation reflects the economic and ecological pressures increasingly felt by the community, especially agrotourism operators who depend on the apple farming sector for their income. The decline in soil quality has led to reduced productivity, while operational costs continue to rise, creating challenges that are not only economic but also related to environmental sustainability.
This study aims to analyze the impact of agrotourism development on increasing the income and welfare of the Bumiaji Village community, evaluate the main challenges in its development, and formulate effective solutions and strategies to overcome these obstacles. The research method used is qualitative, with data collection techniques including in-depth interviews, field observations, and documentation. The objective is to provide a comprehensive picture of the dynamics of agrotourism development, including how local actors, village policies, and the socio-economic conditions of the community interact in the process.
The results of the study show that Bumiaji Village has been able to combine environmental conservation, community participation, and economic innovation to produce sustainable agrotourism development. The synergy between agriculture, tourism, and product processing, particularly through the success of UD Bumiaji Sejahtera, has contributed to improving community welfare and strengthening the local economy. These findings show that collaboration between various sectors can create significant added value for the village.