UGA Extension Barrow County

05/28/2026

While we are appreciative of the recent rains, this drought is far from over. In this 'Beef Tips n' Advice' article, Dr. Lisa Baxter summarizes our best resources available for managing forages during a drought.

The full article can be found at: https://beef.caes.uga.edu/news/2026/05/what-forage-drought-resources-are-available/

Be sure to also follow Georgia Forages on Facebook!

05/28/2026

Honey Bee Fest 2026 is here!

05/22/2026

The office will be closed on Monday, May 25, 2026 in observation of Memorial Day. We will resume regular hours on Tuesday, May 26.

05/01/2026

LEVEL 1 DROUGHT – BARROW COUNTY

On April 27, a statewide Level 1 drought response was declared by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD).

While no outdoor watering restrictions are in place, Barrow County residents and businesses are encouraged make efforts to conserve water, including following the year-round outdoor water schedule, which calls for outdoor watering to happen between the hours of 4 p.m. and 10 a.m. – efforts that reduce water loss to evaporation, especially in warmer weather.

Residents are also encouraged to monitor their homes for water leaks or other problems that would lead to water waste.

04/30/2026

04/30/2026

Grown here. Made here. Sold here. From their farm to your fork, local farmers, bakers and artisan food producers reconnect Braselton to its rich agricultural roots.

04/30/2026

Celebrate International Compost Awareness Week with us, learning how to start or troubleshoot your own compost !

04/30/2026

04/14/2026

**Reminder to register this week!**

Oconee County Extension will host a 3-day workshop on the basics of growing backyard fruits and veggies. The program will be Wednesday-Friday, 4/22-4/24, from 5:30 -7:30 PM at the Oconee County Extension Office (1420 Experiment Station Rd, Watkinsville GA 30677). Topics will include soil fertility/testing, seed starting, gardening basics, and fruit tree/shrub maintenance. It will also include hands-on activities, including seed starting, soil testing, and a food processing bootcamp. The program cost is $15. Register with the link below by Friday, 4/17.

Registration Link: https://uga.questionpro.com/t/Ac2EuZ8bXq

04/14/2026

🚫🔥 Burn Ban Issued for Barrow County 🔥🚫

The Barrow County Fire Marshal’s Office has officially issued a burn ban for Barrow County, GA due to current weather conditions and ongoing drought.

Dry conditions significantly increase the risk of fire spread. Even small, controlled burns can quickly become dangerous and uncontrollable in this environment.

⚠️ Important Reminder:
Burning without a valid permit is illegal and will result in citations and fines. Permits can be obtained(when available) 7 days a week at no charge by going to : www.georgiaburnpermits.com

We urge all residents to take this ban seriously and help protect our community, first responders, and natural resources.

✅ Avoid all outdoor burning
✅ Follow local safety guidelines
✅ Report any fires immediately by calling 911

Together, we can prevent unnecessary emergencies and keep Barrow County safe.