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Losses from Hurricane Michael are growing

Georgia’s agricultural losses from Hurricane Michael are growing.  According to the state’s Department of Agriculture, the storm has caused catastrophic damage across several commodities.

Poultry is the state’s top agricultural commodity and contributes $23.3 billion to the state’s economy.  The storm destroyed at least 92 chicken houses and more that 2 million chickens were killed.

Georgia cotton and vegetable farmers were expecting a profitable year as crops were in great condition and the market was strong.  However, just 15 percent of the cotton crop and 30 percent of vegetables had been harvested, resulting in total losses for those crops.

Pecan groves also suffered extensive damage, and this is the third straight year the state’s pecan growers have had significant losses due to a hurricane.

Agricultural Commissioner Gary Black says they’re working to help facilities get back online as soon as possible so farmers can get their products to market.

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