The Impact
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, many Georgia farmers are left wondering how long they can persevere.
Hurricane Helene was incredibly destructive in the state of Georgia, but it was especially devastating for our farmers. Hurricane Helene severely damaged local infrastructure and interrupted the harvest of crops that are central to the state’s economy. Entire crops were lost overnight. Decades-old pecan trees were uprooted and lost.
Preliminary reports estimate agricultural damages from Hurricane Helene will cost Georgia’s economy at least $6.46 billion.
When crops are destroyed, we’re all affected. Georgia farmers help ensure we continue to have access to fresh, locally grown food and that we don’t have to rely on exports from other countries. A robust agriculture industry leads to a stronger and healthier Georgia.
Hurricane Helene is the third named storm to hit the State of Georgia in the past thirteen months, and it could not have come at a worse time for Georgia farmers and producers who were already facing economic hardship caused by inflation, high input costs, and depressed commodity prices.
Prior to Helene, US Net Farm Income was projected to drop by $6.5 billion in 2024, following a decline of $35.6 billion in 2023.
The University of Georgia has released initial estimates for each commodity, including Pecans, Poultry, Cotton, Peanuts, Citrus, Dairy Vegetables, Forestry, Beef, and more. Scroll down to find the latest estimates in the graphics below. These graphics were created to be downloaded and shared digitally to help spread awareness of the impact.
It will still be months before we know the true extent of the damage of this storm. This page will be updated as more information is released.
See the most recent release from Georgia Governor Brian Kemp for more
"We depend on our farmers and timber growers to provide the food and fibers we use every day and that drives our economy as part of Georgia's No. 1 industry," - Governor Brian Kemp
"Right now, the future is uncertain for thousands of Georgia farmers and farm families who were devastated by Hurricane Helene." - Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper
"I have seen the devastation first-hand in visits to the affected regions, and I have heard of the struggles our friends and neighbors have faced since Hurricane Helene. From significant losses in the agricultural sector to challenges meeting basic needs like food and water, it has been a difficult time for Georgians. We’ve seen agricultural producers across the state dealing with power loss and property damage, both of which have short- and long-term effects on their crops and livelihood. In the coming weeks and months, it will be critical that we do all we can to support Georgia producers as they navigate lost income and determine the next steps forward in their operations." - UGA CAES Dean Nick Place
