99% of farmers surveyed in Southeast Georgia lost power after Hurricane Helene, according to a new report from the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture and researchers at Mercer University.
The survey captured data from nearly 150 farmers who received assistance from the Weathered But Strong Hurricane Relief Fund from the Georgia Department of Agriculture. Based on their input, researchers have concluded that a combination of power outages, lack of working communication tools, and road closures made the recovery from last September’s Hurricane Helene even more difficult.
The researchers found that nearly 90% of surveyed farmers still did not have electricity or cell service restored five days after the hurricane hit. According to the report, this slowed cleanup efforts and endangered livestock and crops. The researchers recommend that communities invest in backup power sources and communication systems.
They also found that while agricultural innovation is necessary, access to low-tech, low-cost equipment in the wake of storms may be even more essential for farmers.
