February Update: Celebrating The Year of Agriculture & Supporting Black Farmers in Augusta

As GABCC's Agribusiness Committee continues to highlight 2025 as the Year of Agriculture in Augusta, GA, I’m excited to share recent updates and upcoming events that strengthen our regional agricultural community.

January Recap: Building Momentum

Earlier this month, our Agribusiness Committee co-chairs led impactful community activities to kick off the year:

  • At the MLK Parade, we distributed fresh produce, seeds, and mini garden planters, fostering community interaction and awareness. Following the event, we saw 88 website visits, three new volunteers sign up, and interest from two community stakeholders.

  • Our Service Day at Belle Terrace received TV coverage, and several neighborhood families expressed interest in signing up for garden plots—an exciting step toward expanding local food access!

Recent Highlights: Uplifting Black Farmers

On February 18, 2025, the Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce hosted a Business Resource Fair, where the Agribusiness Committee welcomed Vontice Jackson, NRCS Outreach Director. She provided key updates on USDA programs and resources, reinforcing agriculture’s status as Georgia’s #1 industry.

This event comes at a critical time, as we celebrate Black History Month and affirm our unwavering support for Black Farmers in our region and beyond.

As Fannie Lou Hamer said:
“Actually, the world and America is upset and the only way to bring about a change is to upset it more.”

Hamer’s words remind us that change comes through persistence, action, and challenging the status quo—just as we continue to do in agriculture and food sovereignty.

Upcoming Local Agriculture Events:

Feb 20 – Seed Swap hosted by Agriculture Networks
Feb 21 – School Visit with Growing Augusta
Feb 22 – Field Day at Belle Terrace Community Garden
March 8 – Richmond County 4-H Garden Club
March 15 – Soft Opening of South Augusta Farmers Market 

Read more about our ongoing efforts and the Year of Agriculture in Augusta on our website [augusta.farm] and blog: [growingaugusta.co/blog]

Thank you for your continued support of agriculture in our community!

Chimere J Brown & Lashawndra Robinson

Co-Chairs, Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce Agribusiness Committee

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