Browse Economics and Money Stories - Page 47

Last year, most commodity prices dropped by 10 percent, leaving Georgia farmers facing their first significant decline in farm gate value in a decade. University of Georgia economists say 2010 should be a better year for them.

Since Dec. 1, Georgians have experienced abnormally cold and wet weather, resulting in very high heating demands across the state.

Anyone who wants to learn more about organic agriculture, food or see a sustainable farm in action should attend the 13th annual Georgia Organics Conference and Expo in Athens, Ga., Feb. 19-20.

University of Georgia researcher Gary Hawkins looks at rotting fruits and vegetables differently than most people. Where they may see useless balls of moldy fuzz, he sees fuel.

Don’t box up those old Christmas tree lights just yet. Along with old blankets, quilts and cardboard boxes, they could be the key to keeping tender plants from freezing this winter.

During the holidays, we scour the stores for the newest gadgets and electronics to give as gifts. But, some people forget new animatronic animals and game system remotes need batteries to operate.

The Vidalia onion is Georgia’s official state vegetable and No. 1 fresh vegetable crop. Like any major crop, it has its fair share of problems – ones University of Georgia researchers want to fix.

On March 16, the University of Georgia Center for Agribusiness and Economic Development will reveal the winners of the 2010 Flavor of Georgia contest. As part of Georgia Ag Day, Gov. Sonny Perdue will present awards for top products and a grand prize for the overall winner.

The University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences will host its fourth annual Ag Forecast Breakfast Series 7:30 a.m. -10 a.m. Jan. 25 in Rome, Jan. 26 in Gainesville, Jan. 27 in Statesboro, Jan. 28 in Tifton and Jan. 29 in Macon. Participants will hear from farm and food safety experts and be able to ask them questions.

Many ornamental nursery growers test to see if their plants need water by sticking a finger in the soil to see if it’s dry. Or, they just water them whether they need it or not. University of Georgia horticulturists have found a better way, one that requires less water, less fertilizer, less money and fewer dirty fingers.