Sen. Billy Hickman Leads Senate Study Committee on Farmland Preservation Meeting at Sunbelt Agriculture Expo Center

ATLANTA (October 7, 2024) - On September 25, Sen. Billy Hickman (R-Statesboro), Chairman of the Senate Study Committee on the Preservation of Georgia's Farmlands, led the committee's third meeting at the Sunbelt Agriculture Expo Center in Moultrie, Georgia.

Committee members heard updates on Georgia's farming sectors from representatives of the Georgia Milk Producers and the Georgia Cattlemen's Association. The committee also examined alternatives to solar siting, with insights from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources' Environmental Protection Division. Additionally, a community discussion on Conservation Use Valuation Assessment (CUVA) issues included presentations from local stakeholders, highlighting concerns about farmland preservation and rural development. The meeting concluded with a public comment session, allowing community members to share their perspectives and suggestions on preserving Georgia's farmlands.

Sen. Hickman expressed his gratitude to Sen. Sam Watson (R-Moultrie) for hosting the committee in his hometown, stating, "I want to personally thank Sen. Watson for welcoming us to Moultrie and allowing us to hear directly from those who know our farmlands best. As a farmer himself, his insights are invaluable, and his commitment to Georgia's agricultural heritage is evident. This meeting has given us a clearer understanding of the challenges facing Georgia's farming communities, reaffirming our dedication to preserving the agricultural lands vital to our state's economy and way of life."

The Senate Study Committee on the Preservation of Georgia's Farmlands will meet again on Monday, October 28, at Cedartown High School College and Career Academy. Further details will be shared in the coming weeks. More information about the committee can be found here.

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Sen. Billy Hickman serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Higher Education. He represents the 4th Senate District which includes Bulloch, Candler, Effingham, Evans, and a small portion of Chatham County. He may be reached at 404.463.1371 or via email at [email protected]

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