The Senate Study Committee on the Preservation of Georgia’s Farmlands has finalized its report, providing key recommendations to support and maintain Georgia's farmland. Chaired by Sen. Billy Hickman (R–Statesboro), the committee was established by Senate Resolution 470 during the 2024 Legislative Session. It aimed to explore strategies for addressing challenges in Georgia’s agricultural sector with input from experts in various fields.
The committee conducted four meetings across the state in Statesboro, Clarkesville, Moultrie, Cedartown, and Atlanta. These meetings focused on topics such as conservation use valuation assessment (CUVA), alternative siting for solar farming, disaster relief, and farmland preservation policy.
“These findings are the culmination of nearly four months of valuable discussions and input from Georgia’s farming community,” stated Sen. Hickman. “Our recommendations aim to ensure that Georgia’s farmland, the backbone of our economy and culture, is preserved for future generations. We must continue to invest in rural communities, provide critical disaster relief and support farmers by reducing tax burdens and expanding opportunities for education and workforce development. I’m grateful to the committee members, legislative staff and the many experts and community members who contributed to this effort.”
Key recommendations include efforts to relieve tax burdens on farmers to enhance financial viability statewide; establishing a state-level disaster relief package for communities affected by Hurricane Helene; advocating for a federal Farm Bill promoting farmland conservation; increasing investments in workforce development for rural areas; supporting farm-based education opportunities; and expanding rural veterinary services.
Senator Billy Hickman also serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Higher Education representing several counties including Bulloch and Candler. He can be contacted at 404.463.1371 or via email at billy.hickman@senate.ga.gov.
For media inquiries: SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.
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