Georgia Cattle Farmer Faces Significant Land Loss for Spalding County Airport Project
Jeff Melin, a Georgia cattle farmer, is facing the loss of approximately 225 acres of his 450-acre family farm due to the development of a new airport in Spalding County. The farm, which has been in his family for nearly 80 years, is being impacted by the planned 730-acre airport project, which will include a 6,000-foot runway and 124 hangars for express and corporate jets. Melin reported to AgWeb that a 70-acre pecan grove, containing trees over a century old, has already seen some clearing. He has been given 90 days to empty a 40-by-60-foot farm shop and anticipates having to remove at least 65 cows and 30 calves from his operation. The airport construction is slated to commence in 2026 and conclude in 2031. Melin expressed concerns about the valuation of the property, stating that investments in land management were not reflected in the offer, and that direct communication about the plans was lacking, with only letters and announcements received.
