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Union County cites tourism gains after 'Sorghum Capital' designation, reports $5.4M impact
Summary
Union County officials said the county received the official designation as the "Sorghum Capital of Georgia," and staff reported last year's events and visitor numbers that they estimate generated about $5.4 million in local economic activity; SPLOST receipts are up 1.6% for Q1 2026.
Union County Development Authority Chair Rick Davenport opened the April 13 meeting with routine business before staff reported a tourism boost tied to a new state designation. Steve Rowe told the board the county received the official designation as the "Sorghum Capital of Georgia" and reviewed spring and early-summer events that have been drawing visitors to Blairsville and surrounding areas.
Rowe cited last year's attendance for recent events and an estimated economic impact: "This many visitors brought in an estimated $5.4 million into the economy," and he noted SPLOST receipts for the first quarter of 2026 were up 1.6% over the prior year. Rowe also listed upcoming events, including the Spring Downtown Market (April 17'18), the Blairsville Seafood Festival (April 24'26), the Hotrod Reunion (May 1'2), and a Fly-In at the Blairsville Airport on May 16.
The board discussed the role of tourism in smoothing historically slow winter months and noted these visitor figures as context when considering local development priorities and infrastructure needs. The board did not take action on tourism programs at the meeting; staff will continue outreach and event support work.
