Georgia Peanut Farm Show Educates Over 1,800 Farmers

The Georgia Peanut Farm Show and Conference, held on January 15, 2026, at the University of Georgia Tifton Campus Conference Center, attracted more than 1,800 attendees. The event, now in its 49th year, provided a platform for farmers to enhance their knowledge and improve their operations. Sponsored by the Georgia Peanut Commission, the show featured nearly 100 exhibitors, showcasing the latest products and services in the peanut industry.

The day-long event included an educational seminar led by the University of Georgia Peanut Team. This session focused on strategies for maintaining profitability in 2026, as well as effective management of diseases and weeds. Additionally, an industry seed seminar highlighted the peanut varieties available for the upcoming planting season.

Recognition and Awards for Industry Leaders

The Georgia Peanut Commission took the opportunity to honor Don Koehler, the senior executive director of the Commission, by inducting him into the Georgia Peanut Hall of Fame. Koehler, who has been at the helm since 1986, has dedicated over 40 years to advocating for Georgia’s peanut farmers on key issues, including farm bills and disaster assistance. A portrait of Koehler was unveiled during the show and will be permanently displayed at the Commission’s headquarters in Tifton.

Awards were also presented to individuals and businesses for their contributions to the peanut industry. The Distinguished Service Award was awarded to Scott Monfort, Extension peanut agronomist at the University of Georgia. The Research and Education Award went to Steve Brown, retired executive director of The Peanut Research Foundation. Other notable recipients included Frank Nolin, who received the Innovator Award, and media accolades awarded to Amanda Huber and Tommy Rountree.

The Outstanding Georgia Young Peanut Farmer Award was presented to Will Anderson from Register, Georgia. This award acknowledges a young farmer’s commitment to sustainable practices and community service. Anderson, who operates peanut, cotton, and corn farms in addition to managing eight broiler houses, is recognized for his innovative approaches to increasing yields.

Celebrating Excellence Across Districts

The Georgia Peanut Commission also initiated the Outstanding Georgia Peanut Farmers of the Year Award, honoring farmers from each of the Commission’s five districts. The winners are as follows:

– District 1: Willard Mims, Donalsonville
– District 2: Jones Brothers Farms, Chula
– District 3: Carl Hood, Midville
– District 4: Keith Moore, Cordele
– District 5: Rodney Locke, Dawson

Each recipient received a sign to display at their farm along with gift cards from Agri Supply and the Georgia Peanut Commission.

The event concluded with the announcement of the Grand Door Prize, donated by Kelley Manufacturing Co.. Shelton Pickle from Colquitt, Georgia, won the prize, which includes one season’s use of a new KMC peanut combine, with an option to purchase it at a discounted price, along with a cash prize. Additionally, Amadas Industries awarded prizes to two participants: Frankie Sapp of Quitman, Georgia, received a customized Grizzly cooler and a certificate towards a new peanut combine, while Mac Paulk from Ocilla received similar prizes.

The Georgia Peanut Farm Show continues to be a vital event for farmers, providing crucial insights and fostering community within the peanut industry.