Commissioner Black Designates Highway 37 “Georgia Grown Trail”
Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Gary W. Black
Tuesday, June 3rd, 2014
Commissioner Black announced Monday the dedication of Georgia Grown Trail 37 during a ribbon cutting ceremony at Horse Creek Winery in Sparks, Georgia.
Georgia Grown Trail 37 is a marketing effort of the Georgia Department of Agriculture and Georgia Department of Economic Development designed to spotlight and promote Georgia agribusiness sites located on Highway 37. The trail includes over 40 Georgia businesses and agritourism destinations stretching 157 miles through nine Georgia counties; Clay, Calhoun, Baker, Mitchell, Colquitt, Cook, Berrien, Brooks, Lanier and Clinch.
All businesses in these counties have the opportunity to join the trail as a member. Member benefits include roadside trail markers and website listings directing motorists to each business location. The trail highlights agritourism locations, farms, U-Pick operations, vineyards, wineries, restaurants and more. The goal of the Georgia Grown Trail 37 effort is to promote tourism along highway 37 by helping the general public and visitors identify local agribusinesses.
“Agriculture and tourism are Georgia’s top two economic generators,” said Commissioner Black. “Through the Georgia Grown Trial, we have the opportunity to promote both of our state’s largest industries, all while benefiting our local economy and educating the public on all of the great agribusiness Georgia has to offer.”
“Georgia’s agritourism sites have become top destinations for visitors in recent years – the Georgia Grown Trail will put a spotlight on Highway 37’s agribusiness entities,” said Chris Carr, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Economic Development. “Georgia’s tourism industry impact hit a record high with $53.6 billion last year – we expect to see this number increase as new tourism product comes online across the state.”
Following the ribbon cutting ceremony, a “Taste of the Trail” reception will be held, featuring products from Georgia Grown Trail Highway 37 members.
For membership questions regarding Georgia Grown Trail 37, please contact Jerry Connell at 229-896-2281. Additional information on the trail can be found at www.georgiagrowntrail37.com .