Georgia Senate Committee Urges Action to Preserve Farmlands Amid Concerns Over Aging Farmer Population
KATHLEEN, Ga. — In light of alarming trends revealed by the 2022 Census of Agriculture, a Senate Study Committee has emphasized the urgent need for improved measures to preserve Georgia’s vital farmlands and support local farmers. The average age of Georgia farmers is now 59, and only about 5,000, or less than 10%, are under 35, pointing to an alarming generational gap in the agricultural sector.
The committee’s recent report outlines several key recommendations essential for sustaining the agriculture industry in the state. Among these are expanding tax relief initiatives, creating a state-level disaster relief package for areas affected by Hurricane Helene, advocating for a federal Farm Bill focused on farmland conservation, and increasing investments in workforce development. Additionally, they highlighted the importance of enhancing rural veterinary services and promoting farm-based education in schools.
Young farmer Cason Anderson, 31, shared his perspective, highlighting the financial struggles faced by new entrants to farming. "Farming is not very profitable currently," he stated, noting the decline in prices for pecans from $2.50 a pound to $1.50 in just a decade. He expressed concerns over the barriers young farmers encounter, particularly the significant down payments required to acquire land, which many simply cannot afford.
With the overall number of farmers in Georgia declining by approximately 1,000 over the past five years, Anderson is hopeful that the committee’s initiatives could provide relief. He believes that if farmers were compensated fairly, the trend of farmland loss could be reversed. As more farmers retire, ensuring the next generation can afford to take the reins has never been more critical for the future of Georgia’s agriculture.
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