Southern States Spotlight Farmers, Veterans, and Farmland Preservation

We’ve got a few stories today that shine a spotlight on farmers and agriculture across the South. In Georgia, Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J. Harper is preparing for America’s 250th Anniversary in 2026 with a special tribute to veterans in the farming community. Through the Georgia Grown Veterans Spotlight, more than 7,000 members of the state’s agriculture industry who have also served in the U.S. military will be honored. Veterans who are also producers can apply online through September 26th, 2025. Apply here: https://tinyurl.com/5buxcsyw

Meanwhile in Alabama, Governor Kay Ivey joined Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate at Sweet Creek Farm Market to officially proclaim October 12th as Farmers’ Day. The ceremony underscored the essential role farmers play in sustaining families and communities, while also contributing a massive $77.3 billion each year to Alabama’s economy.

And in Florida, Commissioner Wilton Simpson announced the preservation of nearly 1,000 acres of farmland in Volusia County. Thanks to the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program, Double Eagle Ranch, a working timber operation, will be permanently safeguarded from development—ensuring the future of Florida agriculture for generations to come.