About this Event
Join us for an exciting and informative day at the Building Resiliency on GA Farms Farmer Field Day hosted by the Georgia Organics' Farmer Services Team. This in-person event will take place at Gilliard Farms in Brunswick, GA on Tuesday, Nov. 19, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about proactive preparation, risk management, and financial sustainability strategies from representatives from UGA Extension, NRCS (Natural Resource Conservation Service, RMA (Risk Management Agency) and SBDC (Small Business Development Center) as well as Matthew, Tia, and Althea Raiford, owners and operators of Gilliard Farms.
Come learn how to adapt your farm to unpredictable climate challenges, recover from weather-related damage, and implement strategies that boost resilience and sustainability.
This field day will be highly valuable for ranchers or farmers interested in:
- Practical methods to adjust farming practices in response to shifting weather patterns.
- Climate-smart techniques to strengthen soil resilience and protect farm infrastructure.
- Steps for rapid recovery from weather-related damage, including support programs.
- Understanding crop insurance options tailored for small and mid-sized sustainable farms.
- Best practices for documenting damage and maintaining records after weather events.
- How diversification and alternative revenue streams can build capacity and long-term financial stability.
- Learning how to prepare for future climate challenges through NRCS and other support resources.
- Connecting with experts, agents, and fellow farmers for ongoing support and collaboration.
About the Farm Hosts:
Gilliard Farms, a 50-acre family-owned farm in Brunswick, Georgia, is run by siblings Matthew and Althea Raiford. Dedicated to sustainable agriculture, they produce high-quality, locally-grown heirloom vegetables, fruits, and herbs using environmentally-friendly methods.
In addition to farming, Matthew and his wife Tia Raiford run Strong Roots 9, a venture focused on nourishing the mind, body, and soul through food, products, and experiences. Strong Roots 9 explores African American foodways, reviving ancestral practices, and reconnecting communities with nature. Their HARD GRIND line of spices, coffee, and teas, along with Strong Roots 9 Wellness tinctures and extracts, reflects their commitment to agriculture, equality, and sustainability.
With deep roots and extensive work in various aspects of the food system, we look forward to hearing their story during the farm tour.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and practical strategies to strengthen your farm’s resiliency and sustainability in the face of a changing climate.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Acknowledgements:
Funding:
This Farmer Field Day is made possible with funding from Drawdown GA, the USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA), and Takeda Pharmecuticals.
Partnerships:
We would like to thank UGA Extention, The USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), the USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA), and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for their generous contribution to the educational content of this Farmer Field Day.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Gilliard Farms, Gillard Trail, Brunswick, GA, USA, United States
USD 0.00