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Marketing - Administration

Bobby Harris
Assisstant Commissioner
Tele: (404) 656-3368
Fax: (404) 656-9380 

The increasing diversity of Georgia's farm products is opening new opportunities for expanding sales of the state's commodities.  In order to help growers take advantage of these potential markets, the Marketing Division promotes demand for and sales of the state's agricultural commodities in the United States and abroad.  These efforts are supported by the Department's network of State Farmers' Markets, Commodity Promotion Programs and International Trade/Domestic Marketing Office.

Area Marketing Coordinators

These individuals are assigned to specific areas throughout the state where they assist producers in the areas of grading, packaging, quality and inspection of their products.  They also act as liaisons between producers and buyers to better assist the producers in locating potential markets for their products.  The Coordinators also assist with promotional activities throughout the state, and gather all information relative to updating the "Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Directory" each year.  They investigate and gather information on nonpayment complaints and help check throughout the year to ensure that dealers in agricultural products are properly licensed and bonded.  Additional duties include setting up and attending Department displays at fairs and other various promotional events, and coordinating different information and assistance to State Farmers' Market Managers.

Regulatory Duties

Areas regulated within the Marketing Division, include requirements of the ''Dealers in Agricultural Products Act", 'Georgia Grain Dealer Act" and Commercial Agricultural Storage Facilities.  Vidalia^® onion grower/packers are required to register prior to March 1 each year with this office.  All other requirements of the ''Vidalia Onion Act of 1986" are regulated by the Marketing Division.  This includes enforcement and licensing guidelines related to the U.S. Certification Mark owned by the Department for usage of the word VIDALIA^®.