The VDT went out and did some research and discovered that
agriculture is not only still here in Lowndes County,
it’s one of the biggest industries here, and by some
measures it’s increasing.
What if the local elected and appointed and self-appointed
boards and authorities helped promote agriculture
as a local industry?
Kay Harris wrote for the VDT yesterday,
South Georgia agriculture alive and well,
Agriculture and forestry remain among the strongest economic engines
in South Georgia, including Lowndes County.
A look at the recent farmgate value for 2011 for Lowndes County
shows a $70 million effect on the local economy, making it one of
the strongest private-sector industries in the county following
South Georgia Medical Center.
The popularity of The Times’ bi-monthly sister publication Ag Scene
led this newspaper to look at the ag/forestry industry to see if it
has diminished in economic importance over the years.
Actually, the number of farms in Lowndes County
has slightly increased in recent some recent years.
The VDT proceeded to do som research, asking Jake Price,
Lowndes County Extension Agent, who noted there are actually
more farms in Lowndes County than in some surrounding counties,
because they tended to be smaller here, with quite a few people
farming on the side.
That and agriculture-based events have become more popular,
such as last week’s Hog Show.
(And he didn’t mention the new last year Valdosta Farm Days.)
He continued:
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