Among the many events taking place in the lead-up to Christmas and the New Year, the annual Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) Convention is probably one of the most important. Nearly 1,500 farmers and agribusiness leaders descended on Jekyll Island last week for a trade show, educational sessions and awards presentations. The group was joined by a few luminaries, including Governor Brian Kemp, Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture Tyler Harper, and American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall.
At top of mind for many in the room was the ongoing impact from Hurricane Helene. GFB President (and former longtime legislator) Tom McCall’s annual address focused on the storm and on his efforts at expanding membership and leadership development. Damage from Helene has been estimated at $5.5 billion, with 33 deaths and massive loss of property and infrastructure.
“People’s lives will never be the same,” McCall said. “We have to depend on those around us who understand what we do. We have to continue leaning on each other! Your dedication and passion inspire me every day. Together, we can overcome the challenges that lie ahead, advocate for policies that benefit our members, and ensure the prosperity of Georgia’s agricultural community.”
Governor Kemp discussed Helene and some of his legislative focus for the upcoming session. The state has already redirected $75 million in aid to farmers and timberland owners as the state waits to see what the federal government is going to do.
“Our top priority this upcoming year will be securing the needed relief for our farmers and communities impacted by the devastation of Hurricane. This was truly like no storm our state has ever seen with the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, placing the price tag of at least $5.5 billion on the preliminary damage to our agriculture and forestry industries alone,” Kemp said. “I continue to urge the current administration, the incoming administration, and those in Congress, to fund block grants to the states for disaster relief as quickly as possible.”
The available loans from that $75 million are allocated for farmers in FEMA designated disaster areas for up to $500,000 at a 2 percent rate.
“We know the success of our state would not be possible without the number one industry in the state, agriculture, in our farming communities. This industry touches every aspect of the economy, and by its extension, every aspect of our own lives,” Kemp said. “That’s why ensuring this industry has the tools that it needs for success is always one of our top priorities.”
Harper discussed some of the details from this year’s growing season – wet early, dry later – that impacted yield but also noted the importance of supporting other farmers considering the severity of Helene and ongoing mental health challenges for farmers. Harper said the suicide rate among U.S. farmers is second only to U.S. veterans.
“There’s a lot of uncertainty right now and it can take a toll on even the strongest of individuals. That’s why it’s important to be checking on each other,” Harper said.
To learn more about the connection between mental health and agriculture:
https://agr.georgia.gov/mental-health-agriculture
