GFB News Magazine

Smith receives 2026 GFB Commodity Award

by Jay Stone
News Reporter

Posted on October 13, 2026 8:28 PM

Rep. Lynn Smith, who worked to protect Georgia’s natural resources and support the growth of the state’s agricultural economy, is the 2026 Georgia Farm Bureau Commodity Award recipient. 

Smith served for 30 years in the Georgia House of Representatives, completing her final term representing Georgia District 70 this year. She opted to not run again.

She was first elected to the Georgia House in 1996. During her tenure she was a trusted champion for Georgia’s farmers, foresters  and rural communities. She has served as chairwoman of the House Natural Resources and Environment Committee since 2005, leading efforts to protect Georgia’s natural resources while supporting Georgia farmers and ranchers.

Smith helped establish Georgia’s regional water planning framework. Beginning with the Flint River Drought Protection Act and legislation introduced in 2002 and culminating in the successful implementation of regional water plan in 2008, she helped create what she described as “the bridge” that provided state agencies with the tools needed to develop long-term, science-based water management solutions for Georgia’s future. 

During her three decades in the House, she also served on the Appropriations, Rules, and Reapportionment committees.

After earning her degree from UGA in 1968, Smith worked as a teacher, including a stint at Newnan High School, where she taught French, history and civics. She and her late husband, Charles, were married more than 52 years and ran Murray Printing Company. A master gardener, Smith lives in Newnan, attends Central Baptist Church and enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Georgia Farm Bureau President Tom McCall, right, presents the 2026 GFB Commodity Award to Rep. Lynn Smith during the organization's annual commodity conference held Aug. 13 in Tifton. /Photo by Logan Thomas