November 21, 2005
Echols County - People driving into Echols County will soon be met by new signs welcoming them to the carrot capital of the south. "We want the recognition that we have a quality product, its very tasty, its sweet, its enjoyable, and we want other people to know about it," said Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tommy Irvin.
Georgia ranks second in the nation when it comes to carrot production, and the majority of the vegetables are grown right here in Echols. The county produces 140 million pounds of carrots each year and ships them all over the nation, pumping a huge chunk of change into our local economy. "We run about 2,200 acres through this carrot house and generally speaking they'll average about $2,500 to $3,000 gross an acre," said Felton Coggins, Produce Farmer.
Local produce farmers and community leaders are hoping this new designation will do for our area what the sweet onion crop has done for Vidalia. "We've grown carrots that have been taste tested and preferred, so we're trying to establish a brand name with these carrots here," said Black.
A brand name not just for carrots, but for all of the state's fruits and vegetables. "It at least lets people know to buy Georgia grown, home grown produce," said Coggins.
From the fields of South Georgia to tables all over the country, giving this small farming community a reputation for taste.
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