12th Annual Georgia Ag Day a Big Success

Randall Weiseman Beef, Cattle, Dairy, Field Crops, General, Georgia, Industry News Release, Livestock, Specialty Crops

From the Georgia Department of Agriculture:

Agriculture Week in Georgia is officially kicked off thanks to a successful Ag Day celebration held Tuesday, March 10, 2015. Hosted by Governor Nathan Deal and Commissioner of Agriculture Gary W. Black, the event drew visitors from across Georgia, including members of the General Assembly, 4-H and FFA students and representatives of various agricultural organizations. Attendees had the opportunity to visit with commodity groups and agricultural organizations from across the state as they sampled many of the tasty products produced in Georgia.

“This is a fun and educational event for all involved,” said Agriculture Commissioner Gary Black. “It is such a great opportunity to have commodity folks, ag groups, legislators and young people all comingling together for the purpose of promoting and learning more about our great industry”

One of the highlights of the festivities was the awarding of James Lyles of Ringgold, Georgia, as the Farmer of the Year.

“We are proud of all of our farmers in the state and it is such a privilege to recognize those who are going above and beyond in their conservation and production practices, such as Mr. Lyles,” Black said.

Ag Day also featured the announcement of the UGA College of Agriculture and Environmental Science’s Flavor of Georgia Food Product Contest. The 2015 overall winner was Adriana Coppola with A &A Alta Cucina Italia for her Balsamico al Mirtillo.

“The Flavor of Georgia contest allows food entrepreneurs from every corner of the state to highlight their creative and delicious products that make Georgia’s food scene one of the most vibrant and diverse in the nation,” said Sharon P. Kane, Flavor of Georgia contest coordinator.

The popular contest consists of market-ready prototypes or commercially available food products from across the state that are judged and critiqued by a panel of food experts. Entries are judged based on flavor, best use of Georgian ingredients, Georgia theme, unique or innovative qualities, commercial appeal and originality.

For more information on the Flavor of Georgia contest and complete list of winners visit http://www.flavorofgeorgia.caes.uga.edu/.