Ag News
Georgia's Rural Center approves funding for key projects
Posted on Jun 24, 2026 at 14:23 PM
The Georgia Department of Agriculture’s Center for Rural Prosperity and Innovation, known as Georgia’s Rural Center, has approved five grants totaling $302,000, supporting several rural Georgia communities through targeted investments in youth agriculture, housing, healthcare, infrastructure, and redevelopment projects aimed at strengthening local economies, improving quality of life, and expanding long-term community resources.
These projects are each designed to address critical needs and create lasting impact in rural communities across the state.
Echols County Extension
The Echols County UGA Extension Office was granted $25,000 to fund the purchase of a livestock trailer and updated livestock scales to better serve local youth livestock exhibitors and agricultural producers.
Stewart County Housing Study
Stewart County received a $20,000 grant for a housing study that will complement its participation in the Georgia Initiative for Community Housing program by assessing current housing needs and help position the county to provide attainable housing options.
Chickamauga Site Redevelopment Study
In Chickamauga, GA a $40,000 grant was given to fund a redevelopment study that will evaluate the potential reuse of the former Crystal Springs Mill site and other city-owned properties to support long-term economic growth.
McCaysville Water Filtration Replacement
The City of McCaysville received $67,000 to fund the replacement of two aging water filtration systems that are critical to maintaining a safe and reliable water supply for residents and businesses.
Irwin County Hospital Equipment
Irwin County Hospital and Palemon Gaskins Nursing Home were granted $75,000 to fund the replacement of outdated and failing kitchen equipment that impacts their ability to provide quality meals to residents, patients, and staff.
Other grants the rural center awarded earlier this year and in last 2025 include:
Evans County
Evans Memorial Hospital in Claxton received a $125,000 grant to support critical technology upgrades, including barcode medication scanning equipment in its emergency department to improve patient safety and reduce medication errors.
Ben Hill County
Dorminy Medical Center in Fitzgerald received a $126,000 grant to buy a new ultrasound machine, expanding diagnostic capabilities, supporting workforce recruitment, and improving access to prenatal care for families in South Georgia.
Dodge County
Dodge County Hospital in Eastman received a $142,000 grant to upgrade technology infrastructure, including communication systems, Wi-Fi connectivity, and clinical equipment, improving efficiency and enhancing patient care delivery.
Ocilla-Irwin Industrial Development Authority
The Ocilla-Irwin County Industrial Development Authority received a $22,500 grant to develop a website for the authority. While the industrial park development is in its early stages, the new website will serve as a platform to market available sites with the information industry decision-makers need, attract investment, and position Irwin County competitively. The website will feature videos, photos, site specifications, and resources for businesses and industries considering Irwin County.
Sparta & Hancock County Natural Gas Infrastructure
The City of Sparta will receive a $50,000 grant to fund engineering services and grant writing aimed at upgrading and repairing aging natural gas infrastructure in the city. The system serves residents and businesses in Sparta as well as parts of Hancock County, including the Hancock County State Prison.
Warren County Industrial Site Development
The Warren County Development Authority received a $98,500 grant to assist the authority with key civil engineering studies to advance two industrial sites to position the county for long-term growth. The county’s two primary development sites, one a 1,400-acre tract adjacent to Interstate 20 and another 510-acre site along U.S. 278, offer significant potential but require critical infrastructure planning.
Visit www.ruralga.org/blog to learn more about these projects.
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