Land suitable for agriculture competes with housing and commercial development. Small and specialty producers need markets. Agritourism businesses need visibility. Beginning farmers need affordable access to land. Residents want opportunities to grow food closer to home. And economic-development decisions can permanently change what land will be available to the next generation.
Read MoreOur local farming community has tried for several years to build stronger relationships with FFA programs and agriculture students in Richmond County. We've had mixed results. Enter Chante Luckie and Hagler U.
Read MoreThis project requires different parts of our community to bring different assets to the same table: an arts organization brings knowledge of artists and public-art processes; an environmental institution brings place, science and educational purpose; funding partners make investment possible; an artist translates those ideas into a physical experience; and ultimately, visitors give the space meaning through their use of it.
Read MoreWe often talk about the food system as though farmers grow the food, stores sell it and families buy it. In reality, there is an entire civic infrastructure underneath that exchange: federal policy, state administration, land access, conservation programs, financing, research, transportation, nutrition assistance and local markets.
Read MoreThe artists, musicians, dancers, volunteers, cultural organizations, food vendors, children making art and strangers meeting one another are what turn a physical location into a community space. A successful festival doesn’t simply occupy a place. It activates it.
Read MoreI've had several conversations with area farmers during Agriculture Month. Some have left me energized. Others have left me deeply concerned. And I've found myself holding two seemingly contradictory thoughts at the same time:
Read MorePlease join us as the Augusta-Richmond County Commission officially kicks off Augusta Agriculture Month 2026 with a special proclamation and recognition ceremony celebrating the people who cultivate our land, strengthen our communities, and preserve our agricultural heritage.
Read MoreThe fund comes as Georgia faces significant development pressure. The Georgia Department of Agriculture estimates the state could lose about 800,000 acres of farmland by 2040—roughly 10% of its farmland. Farmers are increasingly receiving lucrative offers for land as housing, industrial development, warehouses, and data centers expand.
Read MoreWe already welcome thousands of visitors for the Masters, Peach Jam, Ironman, and other major events. But how intentionally are we connecting those visitors to our artists, musicians, farmers, makers, neighborhoods, and small businesses?
Read MoreAs communities search for practical ways to strengthen public health, education, and local economies, community gardens are quietly proving that civic engagement doesn't always begin in a meeting room or at City Hall. Sometimes it begins with a shovel, a shared purpose, and a willingness to grow something together.
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