Agriculture

Overview

With a contribution of more than $65 billion annually to Georgia's $786.5 billion economy, agriculture is the main driver of the state's economic engine. The 2009 total Farm Gate Value for the state was $11,256,734,510.

Agriculture is also a primary source of employment for Georgians, with one in seven in the state working in agriculture, forestry or related fields. In 2007 there were 47,846 farms in Georgia encompassing 10,150,539 acres of land with an average size of 212 acres per farm.

From the north Georgia mountains through the rolling Piedmont, to the sandy coastal plains and the coastal marshes, the state's geography and climate provide perfect conditions for a variety of agricultural pursuits.

Georgia farmers produce more peanuts, pecans and watermelon than any other state. Georgia also leads the nation in broilers and value of egg production. Vidalia onions, grown only in Georgia, are recognized and appreciated as some of the sweetest, best tasting onions in the world.

In Georgia, agriculture isn't just a way to make a living. It's a way of life, too. UGA Extension helps preserve that way of life with information for producers and consumers of Georgia's agricultural products.

Visit the Agriculture UGA Oconee County Extension page

Agriculture Statistics & Agencies

Includes statistics and facts demonstrating the impact of agriculture in Georgia, as well as listings of state and national agricultural agencies.

Animals

Information and resources related to poultry, horses, beef and dairy cattle, swine, sheep and goats, bees, and aquaculture in Georgia.

Field Crops

Canola, cotton, grains, peanuts, soybeans, and tobacco resources and management practices.

Forestry

Resources related to forestry and forest management in Georgia.

Fruits & Vegetables

Guidelines for growing and using apples, beans, blackberries, blueberries, citrus, corn, grapes, greens, onions, peaches, pecans, potatoes, squash, strawberries, tomatoes, and a variety of other fruits and vegetables grown in Georgia.

Organic Agriculture

Information about organic farming practices and training programs.

Pests

Pests and diseases of animals, plants, and humans are discussed here.

Running Your Business

Resources for the commercial food producers, farmers, and ornamental horticulture and landscape professionals. Includes information about regulations, policies, marketing, and business best practices.

Sustainable Agriculture

Details about low-impact, land-friendly commodity production.

Urban Agriculture

Information related to gardening in non-rural areas, including links to centers and training opportunities.