News Summary
In Moultrie, Georgia, Governor Brian Kemp and Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper support local farmers at the Sunbelt Ag Expo. The event addresses challenges from Hurricane Helene and market changes, featuring over 700 exhibitors and promoting innovative agricultural solutions. Initiatives to support farmers include tax exemptions and incentives for reforestation. Kent Hamilton is named Farmer of the Year, showcasing family-operated farms’ importance. Georgia is also recognized as the Spotlight State for the upcoming expo, promising growth in the agriculture sector.
Moultrie, Georgia – Georgia’s agricultural community is rallying together to address the ongoing challenges from changing markets and the recovery process following Hurricane Helene. Governor Brian Kemp and Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper attended the Sunbelt Ag Expo in Moultrie to show their support for local farmers, particularly at the Farmer of the Year Luncheon where Harper delivered the keynote address.
The Sunbelt Ag Expo, running from Tuesday to Thursday, attracts more than 700 exhibitors and covers 100 acres dedicated to agricultural innovation and hands-on learning. Attendees can participate in health checks, such as blood pressure and blood sugar tests, during the event which features various family-friendly attractions including livestock exhibits, cooking demonstrations, and interactive activities.
During his address, Governor Kemp emphasized the enduring effects of Hurricane Helene on farming families, reinforcing the necessity for collaborative partnerships and increased funding to support recovery efforts. This comes as the southeastern states continue to search for innovative strategies to combat rising costs and changing market dynamics that impact both rural and urban populations.
Actions taken by state leaders include exempting federal crop loss and disaster relief payments from state taxes, offering incentives for reforestation, and temporarily suspending harvest taxes to facilitate cleanup efforts. These initiatives aim to alleviate immediate financial burdens on farmers while they navigate ongoing recovery.
Commissioner Harper was noted for being one of five commissioners across the nation actively participating in a kitchen cabinet with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Leslie Rollins. The focus is on diversifying agricultural production in Georgia, extending beyond soybeans to encompass cotton, peanuts, and timber.
Despite the hurdles, there remains a sense of optimism within the agriculture sector, particularly regarding the vital role of family-operated farms in the broader agricultural landscape of the United States. Kent Hamilton was recognized as the Farmer of the Year during the exposition, highlighting exemplary contributions to the industry.
In addition to the productive discussions at the expo, Georgia was announced as the Spotlight State for the 2025 Sunbelt Ag Expo, acknowledging its critical position in U.S. agriculture. This selection is expected to bolster the state’s agricultural initiatives and encourage further investment in the sector.
The Sunbelt Ag Expo welcomes visitors from 8:30 AM to 4 PM on Tuesday and Wednesday, and until 3 PM on Thursday, with admission priced at $15 at the gate, and discounts available for advance purchases. The event is recognized as a major venue for exploring the latest agricultural products and technologies, providing a balance of informative resources and family entertainment.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- WTXL: Governor Kemp Honors South Georgia Farmers
- Wikipedia: Agriculture in Georgia (U.S.)
- Hoodline: Georgia Shines as Spotlight State at Sunbelt Ag Expo
- Google Search: Sunbelt Ag Expo 2025
- Southeast Ag Net: Sunbelt Ag Expo 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Agriculture
- Moultrie Observer: New Exhibition at Georgia Museum of Agriculture
- Google News: Georgia Agriculture
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.