The Farm Report
Growing in South Carolina Pt. 1: Hugh E. Weathers & Dana Beach
Agriculture is growing in South Carolina; the future is bright! This week on The Farm Report, Erin Fairbanks is talking with Hugh E. Weathers, the Commissioner of Agriculture for the state of South Carolina. Learn about the state's top ten cash crops, and hear why South Carolina's ag sector is growing! Hear about the history of agriculture in Commissioner Weathers' family, and how it mirrors farm trends throughout the history of South Carolina. Listen in to hear Commissioner Weathers talk about the importance of value-added products in South Carolina's economy, and learn more about the "Fresh on the Menu" program. Later, Dana Beach of the Coastal Conservation League joins the show to talk about land development in South Carolina. Hear about the prevalence of "sprawl" throughout the state, and how Dana's work is to preserve unique cultures throughout the state. This program has been brought to you by S. Wallace Edwards & Sons.
"We've probably gained- albeit some lifestyle farmers- we've gained several thousand more farmers over the last 4 or 5 years. I'm very optimistic for the future... there are so many opportunities for agriculture in South Carolina." [9:00] -- Commissioner Hugh E. Weathers on The Farm Report
"South Carolina is the perfect place to make a local food system. We have a twelve month growing season, we have good soil, and good farmers!" [32:45] -- Dana Beach on The Farm Report