Ag Snapshots 2024
2024 Georgia Ag Forecast
Each year, UGA's agricultural economists develop a comprehensive overview to help various sectors of the agriculture industry navigate the year ahead. As Georgia's land-grant university, the University of Georgia conducts cutting-edge research on critical and emerging issues that are important to the agriculture industry. From this research, UGA provides the best information and education available to producers and constituents to equip them with knowledge and decision-making tools for their businesses.
Agricultural and Applied Economics faculty and staff attended the 2024 Georgia Ag Forecast in Tifton.
Pictured L to R: Dan Remar, Gopi Munisamy, Greg Colson, Yangxuan Liu, Will Secor, Ben Campbell, Guy Hancock, Jared Daniel, and Greg Fonsah
2024 Ag Snapshots
This annual overview encompasses outlooks for key sectors of the agriculture industry, providing stakeholders with forecasts and analysis to help them plan and make informed decisions for their businesses. For the 2024 forecast, economists are focusing on key sectors such as Cotton, Peanuts, Corn, Soybean, Wheat, Poultry, Beef Cattle, Dairy, Fruits and Tree Nuts, Vegetables and Pulses, Green Industry, Timber Situation, Agritourism, Hospitality, and Travel, and the Alcoholic Beverage Industry, providing detailed insights into market trends, production forecasts, and factors influencing prices and demand. View all the individual reports.
By synthesizing the latest research and data, economists aim to equip producers and constituents with the best information and education available, empowering them with the knowledge and decision-making tools necessary to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the year ahead. This proactive approach to providing industry-specific forecasts and analysis underscores the commitment of Georgia's agricultural economists to supporting the success and resilience of the agriculture sector in the state.
More about Ag Snapshots
Ag Snapshots, an invaluable annual assessment of the county-level economic valuation of all food and fiber production in the state of Georgia is produced by Sharon Kane, Economist and Senior Service Public Associate with CAES Center of Agribusiness and Economic Development here at UGA. These snapshots not only highlight the significance of agriculture to Georgia's economy, but also shed light on the broader impact of the agricultural sector on the state's overall economic health.
The importance of agriculture in Georgia cannot be overstated. Beyond its direct contributions, such as food and fiber production, agriculture supports a vast array of industries along the supply chain, including processing, transportation, and manufacturing. The total economic contribution of agriculture, including these related industries, amounts to a staggering $73.2 billion in output to Georgia's $1.2 trillion economy. This demonstrates the significant role that agriculture plays in driving economic activity and growth across the state.
Moreover, the agricultural sector is a major source of employment in Georgia, with more than 340,827 jobs supported by agricultural activities and related industries. These jobs provide livelihoods for families and communities throughout the state, contributing to overall prosperity and well-being.
By providing detailed insights into the economic impact of agriculture at the county level, Ag Snapshots enables stakeholders, policymakers, and the public to better understand and appreciate the vital role that agriculture plays in Georgia's economy. This information is essential for informed decision-making and strategic planning to support the continued success and sustainability of the agricultural sector in Georgia.
Ag Snapshots is rolled out each year at the Georgia Ag Forecast annual meeting. Ag Snapshots provides stakeholders in the agriculture industry with valuable insights and information to navigate the upcoming year. In addition to highlighting the county-level economic valuation of food and fiber production in Georgia, Ag Forecast features a comprehensive overview developed by economists from the Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics.
Agents in the Field Vital to Georgia's Agricultural Economy
History of Cooperative Extension and UGA Impact
The University of Georgia's Cooperative Extension Service is indeed a vital institution, carrying forward the mission set forth by the Morrill Act of 1862. Through its dedication to serving citizens with up-to-date information and programs, the Cooperative Extension plays a crucial role in various aspects of community life, including agriculture, family well-being, and community development.
With its roots in expanding vocational, agricultural, and home demonstration programs in rural America, the Cooperative Extension has evolved to address the changing needs and technologies of modern society. By translating scientific knowledge into practical applications for families, farmers, and communities, the University of Georgia Extension contributes to the health and success of Georgia.
Through face-to-face contacts, educational programs, and research-based initiatives, the Cooperative Extension Service ensures that Georgians have access to the latest information and resources, empowering them to make informed decisions and adapt to changing circumstances. This commitment to serving the community reflects the enduring legacy of the Morrill Act and the vision of its founders.
The evolution and continued existence of the cooperative extension system since the turn of the 20th century have been instrumental in supporting rural farmers and fostering the growth of agriculture across the United States. In Georgia, where agriculture remains the largest industry, the Cooperative Extension Service plays a vital role in supporting farmers and ensuring the continued success of the agricultural sector.