The Future of Agriculture in Georgia Under Climate Change: A Comprehensive Analysis Using Temperature and Precipitation Data Open Access

Abstract

Climate change is a complex and interdisciplinary challenge that impacts agricultural systems worldwide, with implications for both cropping patterns and farm labor conditions. This thesis examines how climate change, particularly extreme temperatures (including heat and cold), and variable precipitation affect agricultural systems and farmers in Georgia, United States. Georgia is a unique agricultural state due to its crop diversity as well as its dependence on migrant farm labor through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) H-2A program. This research integrates farmer interviews, future climate projections, and a review of existing literature to assess the impact of extreme temperatures and changing precipitation levels on agricultural systems in Georgia. This study finds that extreme temperatures are going to become more unpredictable and intense as climate change worsens, and precipitation levels in the state will become more variable. Both changes will produce challenges and opportunities for Georgia’s agricultural industry. This study concludes with potential solutions to inform future farm policy in the state, specifically around climate-smart agricultural practices to move towards an equitable and climate-resilient food system in Georgia.

Table of Contents

Introduction 1

Methods 7

Results 11

Potential Solutions 41

Conclusion 52

Appendix 55

Future Direction and Next Steps 55

Works Cited 58

About this Honors Thesis

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School	Emory College
Department	Environmental Studies
Degree	B.S.
Submission	Honors Thesis
Language	English
Research Field	Environmental Sciences Economics, Agricultural Agriculture, General
Keyword	Agriculture Climate change Farming Adaptation Georgia
Committee Chair / Thesis Advisor	Burchfield, Emily, Emory University
Committee Members	Roncoli, Carla, Emory University Martin, Anthony , Emory University

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