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Ag Losses from Hurricane Michael Continue to Grow
USAgNet - 10/19/2018

Damage from Hurricane Michael to Georgia's agriculture industry could reach nearly $3 billion, according to new state assessments. Agriculture Commissioner Gary Black says these are generational losses that are unprecedented and it will take unprecedented ideas and actions to help farm families and rural communities recover.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that timber losses alone are estimated at $1 billion, as about 1 million acres were destroyed, state figures show. Cotton, peanuts, pecans, vegetables and poultry also were hit hard.

"Unfortunately, our worst thoughts were realized," Black said. "We saw months and sometimes years of work just laid over on the ground in a matter of seconds. Georgia has long led in the production of several renowned commodities and now we have the dubious distinction of also leading in the devastation and incredible loss of these prominent crops."

The issue is poised to become political amid the state’s tight and heated governor’s race. Republican candidate Brian Kemp, who was greeted with “Farmers For Kemp” signs on his tour of south and middle Georgia earlier this month, was heartily endorsed by Vice President Mike Pence during a tour of damaged areas this week. His campaign blasted Democrat candidate Stacey Abrams’ comment that “people shouldn’t have to go into agriculture or hospitality in Georgia to make a living in Georgia” during a campaign stop in Statesboro this week.

Abrams says knocks from the Kemp camp are evidence of her appeal throughout Georgia.


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