Every county in Georgia is now experiencing some level of drought — and for farmers, the timing couldn't be more critical.

In this episode, recorded in Watkinsville, Georgia, agricultural climatologist Pam Knox with the University of Georgia breaks down what's driving the state's widespread dry conditions and what it could mean for the upcoming growing season.

From the role of La Niña in shaping Georgia's winter weather to the lack of tropical systems that typically supply 30–40% of the state's summer rainfall, Knox explains how months of below-average precipitation have left soil moisture reserves dangerously low. While recent cold snaps brought ice and snow, they delivered little meaningful moisture — and that has major implications for spring planting.

We discuss:

• Why winter is normally Georgia's "recharge season" for soil moisture — and why that hasn't happened this year

• The difference between surface dryness and deeper soil and reservoir impacts

• How drought affects forage, winter grains, vegetables, blueberries, and early corn planting

• The difficult irrigation decisions farmers face during water shortages

• Lessons from past droughts, including crop losses during pollination

• What growers should watch in the coming weeks as soil temperatures rise

Knox also shares trusted climate and drought monitoring resources for producers looking to stay informed as conditions evolve.

If you farm, work in agriculture, or simply want a clearer understanding of how large-scale climate patterns translate to real-world impacts on Georgia's fields and food supply, this conversation provides timely insight grounded in science and experience.

🎧 Tune in for a practical, straight-talk look at Georgia's drought outlook — and what may lie ahead.

What does it take to step into agriculture as the next generation — and stay there?

With the average American farmer nearing retirement age, the future of agriculture depends on young producers willing to take risks and lead. Cleve Jackson discusses his agricultural roots, his leadership journey through Farm Bureau, and the responsibility of growing a farm — and an industry — for the next generation. Hear why connection matters, why involvement is essential, and how saying "yes" can change both a career and a community.

In this special bonus episode of Growing On, host John Holcomb visits Minter's Tree Farm, a five-generation family operation rooted in the unincorporated community of Inman, Georgia. For more than 30 years, Rick Minter has carried on a Christmas tree–growing legacy that began when his grandfather purchased the farm in 1936.

Rick shares the remarkable history behind the farm—from its origins in Depression-era cotton and vegetable farming to its evolution into one of the last remaining choose-and-cut Christmas tree farms along Highway 92. Listeners will hear how the farm has navigated the changing landscape of agriculture, why cypress varieties like Leyland and Murray became their specialty, and what it takes to grow and shape thousands of trees year-round.

Rick also discusses:

• How agritourism, photography sessions, and family experiences keep the farm thriving

• The unique challenges and joys of preparing trees from planting to trimming to the holiday rush

• Why community support means everything after three decades in the Christmas tree business

• The moments—especially the calm of late December—he enjoys most each season

From wagon rides to family photo shoots, from pruning shears to holiday memories, this episode offers a heartfelt look at a farm built on tradition, resilience, and the simple joy of helping families bring Christmas home.