Murray State Theses and Dissertations

Abstract

Agriculture is Georgia’s largest economy, generating billions of dollars annually. Sustaining this sector requires ongoing investment in human capital through education, training, and leadership development. While research has extensively examined youth agricultural education, limited attention has been given to the economic contributions of adult agricultural education programs. The Georgia Young Farmers Association serves as a primary provider of structured adult agricultural education in the state, offering continuing education through meetings, farm tours, workshops, and leadership development activities. The purpose of this study was to estimate the economic impact of the Georgia Young Farmers Association on Georgia’s economy[BL1] . The study evaluates multiple pathways through which the program influences economic activity, including improvements in farm productivity from enhanced management practices, agribusiness revenue linked to producer relationships, expenditures associated with youth livestock exhibitions, wages from student work-based learning in agricultural industries, and spending tied to local Young Farmer chapter activities. Data were collected through surveys of Young Farmer members, agricultural educators, agribusiness operators, and parents of youth livestock exhibitors. Descriptive statistical methods were used to estimate direct financial contributions, while yield differential analysis assessed potential revenue gains from improved crop selection and management. Acreage allocation methods, informed by USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service data, were used to distribute estimated impacts across major Georgia crops. Findings from this study provide empirical evidence of the economic contributions of adult agricultural education programs. Results offer insights for policymakers, educators, and industry leaders, highlighting the role of continuing agricultural education in enhancing agricultural productivity and supporting rural economic sustainability.

Year manuscript completed

2026

Year degree awarded

2026

Degree Awarded

Doctor of Education

Department

Agriculture

College/School

Hutson School of Agriculture

Dissertation Committee Chair

Dr. Alyx Shultz

Thesis Advisor

Dr. Randal Wilson

Committee Chair

Dr. Alyx Shultz

Document Type

Dissertation

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