The University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences has released a report estimating agricultural damages from Hurricane Helene will cost the state’s economy at least $6.4 billion. Meanwhile, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp and Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper provide updates on the storm’s impacts across the state.
“We depend on our farmers and timber growers to provide the food and fibers we use every day and that drives our economy as part of Georgia’s No. 1 industry,” Governor Brian Kemp said during a press conference where he was joined by Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper as well as members of Georgia’s Congressional delegation and state legislators. “Following the immense losses caused by Hurricane Helene, and with Hurricane Milton possibly bringing further impacts to our state, I’m urging all of our local, state, and federal partners to join efforts in bringing them relief. That’s why we’re calling on the federal government and Congress to act quickly in appropriating relief funds and helping them rebuild their livelihoods.”
“We are working around the clock with state, federal, and industry leaders to deliver federal aid to Georgia farmers to help them recover and bounce back stronger than before,” he said. “I’m proud to see our entire Georgia delegation rallying around and supporting the Georgia farmers who fuel the success of our state’s #1 industry, and we will not stop working until we’ve delivered the relief our Georgia farmers and producers need.”
The report and commissioner’s office did not note specific losses for the broiler chicken industry.