In the heart of Perry, Georgia, Samantha Lineberger (BSA ’17, BSA ’17) is cultivating more than just flowers; she’s nurturing a legacy. As a fourth-generation farmer, Samantha’s roots run deep in the fertile soil of Arena Acres, a U-Pick flower farm that has become a local treasure.
A Legacy of Agriculture
Samantha’s connection to the land is a family affair. Her great-grandfather, a dairy farmer, originally worked the land that now blooms with vibrant flowers. This deep-seated bond with agriculture inspired Samantha to pursue a degree in agribusiness and food industry marketing from the University of Georgia (UGA). Her education equipped her with the knowledge and skills to transform her family’s farm into a thriving agritourism business.
From Dreams to Reality
Samantha’s journey began with as a high school student in FFA, where she participated in floral design. However, her aspirations evolved. “Instead of being stuck in a building with plants all day, I preferred to be a little closer to where the plants bloom,” she shared. Arena Acres is more than just a flower farm; it’s a place where families and friends can reconnect with nature. For $15, visitors can fill a red Solo cup with flowers they pick themselves, enjoying the fresh air and the simple joy of being outdoors. The farm features a variety of flowers, including sunflowers, dahlias, cosmos, and zinnias, as well as seasonal vegetables when available. Starting late September 2024, Arena Acres will be offering pumpkins for purchase along with a photographic opportunity in a recently planted sunflower field.
Samantha’s vision for Arena Acres extends beyond farming. She aims to preserve her family’s farmland amidst the rapid development, and with plans to expand and grow, Samantha is committed to making Arena Acres an agritourism hotspot in Houston County. Samantha would say her CAES education prepared her in ways she never expected from business plans to plant diseases, she is putting her education to work in the day-to-day of her farm. Her dedication to her family’s legacy and her innovative approach to farming are a testament to her hard work and passion. As she continues to plant seeds of growth and community, Samantha Lineberger is not just cultivating flowers; she’s cultivating a future where agriculture and community thrive together.
Samantha’s story is a beautiful reminder that with passion, education, and a deep connection to one’s roots, dreams can indeed blossom into reality.