Commissioners recognize farmers for their contributions to the economy

Pictured, left to right, Habersham County Commissioner Bruce Harkness, Cheryl Kowalski and Chip Brooks of the Habersham County Farm Bureau, Habersham County Commission Chair Bruce Palmer, Habersham County Commissioner Jimmy Tench, Habersham County Manager Alicia Vaughn, and Habersham County Commissioner Ty Akins. (nowhabersham.com) The Habersham County Commission proclaimed Farm-City Week from November 16-23. Representing the Farm Bureau Educational Outreach program were Chip Brooks and Cheryl Kowalski. Commissioner Ty Akins read the proclamation.

The Habersham County Commission recognized the importance of the agriculture industry at the local, state, and national levels with a proclamation designating November 16-23 Farm-City Week.

Commissioner Ty Akins read aloud the proclamation recognizing American ranchers and farmers for their efforts that “literally help feed the world.”

“The agricultural industry provides us with food, clothing, and shelter as well as fuel for our energy needs. As we welcome new opportunities for trade, the hard work and successful cooperation between farmers and city workers will continue to play a vital role in our state and nation’s future,” Akins said.

Agriculture employs more than 19 million workers, including farmers and ranchers, shippers, processors, marketers, retailers, truck drivers, inspectors, and others who contribute more than $1 trillion annually to the nation’s gross domestic product.

In Georgia, agriculture contributes almost $70 billion annually to the state’s economy. One in seven Georgians work in agriculture, forestry or agriculture-related field.

According to the county government’s website, agriculture is the No. 1 industry in Habersham. The main crops are peaches and apples, and the main industries are poultry and beef.

Habersham County Commissioners called upon citizens in rural and urban areas to “acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of all those who, working together, produce and supply our community and nation with an abundance of agricultural products.”

Chip Brooks and Cheryl Kowalski of the Habersham County Farm Bureau attended the commission’s regular monthly meeting on November 21st to accept the recognition on behalf of area farmers.