William "Bill" Branch
Georgia Agricultural Hall of Fame
2024 Inductee
William "Bill" Branch's enduring legacy continues to shape the landscape of Georgia agriculture.
Join us in celebrating the remarkable achievements of William "Bill" Branch, a distinguished peanut breeder and a pivotal figure in Georgia's agricultural landscape. In this special video tribute, Don Koehler, the Executive Director of the Georgia Peanut Commission, and Scott Monfort, a UGA Peanut Specialist, reminisce about Branch's unparalleled contributions to the peanut industry, earning him the nickname the "godfather of peanuts."
Hailing from a farming background in south-central Oklahoma, Bill Branch's journey into plant breeding commenced early on. Inspired by his family's agricultural legacy, Branch pursued his passion for agronomy, eventually finding his calling in peanut breeding. After completing his education at Oklahoma State University and obtaining his master's and doctorate degrees, Branch embarked on a transformative career path that led him to the heart of Georgia's agricultural community.
Throughout his tenure with the University of Georgia's breeding program, Branch spearheaded groundbreaking research aimed at combating the devastating effects of Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus (TSWV) on peanut crops. His relentless efforts bore fruit with the development of resilient peanut varieties, including the game-changing Georgia Green and Georgia-06G. Branch's innovative approach not only bolstered farmer resilience but also enhanced consumer satisfaction by prioritizing flavor, nutrition, and shelling characteristics.
Learn more about his remarkable journey and profound impact on the industry:
News Release: 2024 Hall of Fame Inductees