The Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) convened its 87th annual convention from December 8-10, 2024, on Jekyll Island, attracting 1,421 farmers and agribusiness leaders. During the event, American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall emphasized the urgent need for a new farm bill, highlighting that without it, 20-25% of producers may struggle to secure operating loans. This call for action comes at a critical time as the agricultural community grapples with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which inflicted $5.5 billion in damages to the state's agricultural sector.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp addressed the convention, urging Congress to provide disaster relief funding to assist farmers affected by the hurricane. GFB President Tom McCall reported that the organization has been actively responding to the disaster and updated its mission statement to reflect its commitment to supporting its members during these challenging times. He noted that 87 of GFB's 158 county chapters have increased their membership, indicating a strong community response.
In addition to discussing legislative needs, Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper spoke about the emotional toll that Hurricane Helene has taken on farmers, underscoring the importance of mental health support in the agricultural community. To aid recovery efforts, GFB has launched the Weathered But Strong Hurricane Relief fund, aiming to raise $1.5 million for affected farmers, with applications for relief due by December 31, 2024. This convention not only served as a platform for discussing pressing issues but also showcased the resilience and solidarity of Georgia's agricultural community. [2253a4b0]