ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - A year after Hurricane Helene tore through Georgia, farmers are still living with the damage. The University of Georgia Extension Office estimates the storm caused more than $6 billion in losses and damages across the state.

Orchards were lost, futures shaken and equipment destroyed. While row crops like cotton and peanuts can be replanted, pecan orchards — a cornerstone of Georgia agriculture — take decades to grow back.

“It’s going to take years to plant those trees back and get them back into production,” said Jake Ford, a South Georgia pecan farmer who lost trees in the storm. “We just want a level playing field where we ask for your patience as we get through this, and we will grow back.”

Among those moved to act was Kennesaw woodturner Thom Sud

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