Being the first farm in Georgia to be certified organic, Heritage has been and continues to be a leader in the field. The first certified organic peanuts were grown here in ’04. In ’06 our farmer was named “Land Steward of the Year”, an award given by Georgia Organics Inc. for outstanding contributions to the health of the land and people of Georgia. Our farmer’s portrait was presented to State Commissioner for Agriculture, Gary Black, to be hung in his office in the State Building, representing the first certified organic farm in Georgia.

Heritage has been involved in experimental grant work dealing with organic no-till, weed control, farmscaping, etc. Area farmers were invited to attend field-days to learn about the processes and results.

Shirley and her two great grandsons, Grady and Davis.

To provide a market for other organic growers and to provide the freshest organic produce for its customers, Heritage works with a network of local and regional growers.

Being dedicated to improving local life, Heritage has participated in farmers’ markets, donated food to homeless shelters and is now beginning to work to get area schools and hospitals to offer organic food. School groups are invited to come to the farm and participate in educational and work activities. Interns are also welcome to work at the farm.

In 2011, the GA Organics Conference was held at the Savannah Trade Center. Heritage Organic Farm participated and held a farm tour on its grounds. Shirley and her staff recounted the farm’s trailblazing beginnings, the basics of growing organically, changes in the organic program, and the farm’s successful marketing strategy.