In 2005, the state of Georgia ranked 12th in the U.S. for total cash receipts for agricultural products sold. Protecting agriculture in Georgia is protecting the economy of Georgia and, in effect, a large proportion of the national food system – either through production, markets or transport. Thus, providing safe and secure food supply is in the interest of Georgians as it is for all Americans.

Each student will receive hands-on emergency response training. In addition, participants in the program will have the opportunity to engage in practical experience through volunteer or shadowing activities within, for example, the University of Georgia Office of Security & Emergency Preparedness (OSEP) and other on-campus nodes of expertise, or with partner groups around the state.

By offering course work that integrates information from a wide array of related disciplines on a theme that is emerging in social relevance to global interaction, the UGA Agrosecurity Certificate Program course of study will expand the traditional agricultural classroom experience. Students will be asked to challenge their beliefs, and actions, through investigation and respond to issues.

Contact: Karen Simmons, karens@uga.edu, phone: (706) 542-3045, fax: (706) 542-1050