Georgia is home to a wide variety of industries, from automotive and manufacturing to farming and agribusiness. One of the great parts of Georgia, especially this time of year, is the abundance of u-pick farms, wineries and corn mazes for us to visit. These Georgia-grown attractions are not only drawing in locals, but quite a few out-of-state visitors as well.
Farming is a major industry in Georgia, resulting in nearly $73 billion in yearly revenue. In recent years, the farm-to-table trend has exploded, opening a door for farmers to create a direct farm-to-consumer market, more commonly known as agritourism. This new industry, according to a study by the University of Georgia, is worth an estimated $200 million in annual revenues and has created more than 5,000 jobs for Georgians.
Not only does this industry have an immense impact on our state’s economy, but it also creates opportunities for parents to enjoy a unique experience with their child that will be remembered for a lifetime. In the new age of technology, the popularity of social media sites like Facebook and Instagram has, in a sense, raised the popularity of “experiential activities.” Families now have a place to share that photo of their child picking their first apple with all of their friends and family, which has seemingly had a positive impact on our local economy.
Many farms, especially those with pumpkin patches and corn mazes, can see upwards of 40,000 faces in a 6-10 week period during the fall. Even though the fall is probably the largest tourist time for farms, farming and agritourism can be enjoyed year-round. There is an abundance of opportunities around the state of Georgia for parents and teachers to take kids and teach them about where their food comes from, how things grow and to appreciate the work that farmers do to ensure they stay healthy.
Georgia’s agriculture industry consists of more than 42,000 farms and employs over 73,000 people. These impressive numbers have contributed to Georgia becoming a primary player in providing produce, dairy, poultry, cattle, grain and so much more to our surrounding states and the nation. As we take time this month to celebrate Thanksgiving, let us also take a few moments to celebrate this incredible industry and the people who work in it. These farmers and business owners take the time to grow and cultivate the products that we use to make meals for our families.
This year, as you prep for Thanksgiving and the holiday season, it would be fun and healthy to travel to your local farm, and pick out some fresh, straight-from-the-source produce. It will be a unique adventure to experience with your family that will give you the opportunity to work directly with the grower, and create memories and traditions that will last a lifetime!
to your business!