Greenwood County Farmers Show Resilience in Wake of Hurricane Helene

Greenwood County Farmers Push Through Challenges After Hurricane Helene

It’s been a typical mix of sunshine and clouds in Greenwood County recently, with high temperatures reaching up to 83°F and lows dipping to 64°F. But for local farmers, the weather is just a backdrop to the larger struggle that’s unfolded after Hurricane Helene swept through the area.

One of the resilient faces in the community is William Metts, the dedicated owner of Fenways Farms. Metts has been an organic farming champion since 2015 and has been serving as a food hub for the area since 2021. But right now, his primary concern isn’t just growing crops—it’s clearing debris. “I’ve spent several days clearing roads and helping neighbors while also ensuring my family’s safety,” Metts shared.

Normally, you’d find Metts at the farmers’ market on the weekends, showcasing his high-quality organic produce. This week, however, he’s twisting his usual routine to host a special event—a Hurricane Helene special on meats and produce. “With supply chains being disrupted and the ongoing port workers’ strike, my goal is to collaborate with as many local farmers as possible to keep the food supply steady,” he explained.

Braving the Storm: Personal Loss and Community Efforts

Despite his public-spirited efforts, Hurricane Helene hasn’t spared Metts’ own farm. “We’re going to be out of meat for about three weeks, which means a loss of income for this month. I’ve also lost property and had 20 trees downed in my yard. Thankfully, my house was untouched, so I feel fortunate,” Metts recounted.

Though faced with significant personal loss, Metts remains committed to his mission of bolstering the local food system. “It’s going to take some time, but we’re determined to showcase just how resilient the local food community can be and support those in need,” he stated.

Such resilience and collaboration among local farmers not only underscore their dedication but also show the strength of community spirit in Greenwood County.

Weather Update

The weather continues to be a mix of sunshine and clouds, with highs around 83°F and lows approximately 64°F. Winds are expected to be light and variable. A hopeful sign for those working tirelessly outdoors to recover and rebuild.

Residents needing assistance or looking to help can reach out to community members like William Metts, showing just how closely-knit and supportive Greenwood County can be in times of adversity.

For more information or to share your story ideas, contact Renee Ortiz at 864-943-5643.

It’s clear that despite the challenges, the spirit of resilience and cooperation shines brightly in Greenwood County. As the community bands together to face the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the unwavering support for local farmers like William Metts assures that recovery is on the horizon.