RALEIGH – The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has confirmed an established presence of the invasive spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) in Davidson, Rowan and Caswell counties, bringing the total number of counties where established populations of this destructive pest has been found in the state to seven.
Topics Related to Plant Industry
The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has expanded a state quarantine for the imported fire ant to include all of Davie, Forsyth and Iredell counties effective Jan. 1, 2026. With the expansion, the quarantine now includes portions or entire areas of 81 counties in North Carolina.
WHO/WHAT: The N.C. Seed Board will meet to discuss items related to a seed complaint. WHEN: Tuesday, Oct. 14, 1 to 3 p.m.WHERE: Steve Troxler Agricultural Science Center 4400 Reedy Creek Road, Raleigh, NC Sign in at front desk upon entry. If you do plan to attend in person, please contact Bill Foote in advance.
WHO/WHAT: The N.C. Plant Conservation Board will meet to discuss items related to land conservation, stewardship efforts of the N.C. Plant Conservation Program and regulatory matters. WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 15, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.WHERE: Steve Troxler Agricultural Science Center 4400 Reedy Creek Road, Raleigh, NCOr attendees can join virtually using the following:Join on your computer, mobile app or room device
The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Plant Industry Division is encouraging farmers statewide to inspect their fields for the presence of tropical spiderwort (Commelina benghalensis).
RALEIGH – The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has confirmed an established presence of the invasive spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) in Caldwell County. Initial surveys indicate that the distribution of the pest is concentrated in Lenoir within a 1-mile area. Survey efforts are ongoing.
RALEIGH – The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has confirmed an established presence of the invasive spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) in Rockingham County.
RALEIGH -- The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is postponing proposed spring treatments for spongy moth infestations in Currituck, Stokes and Surry counties following delays in federal funding. The department will step up monitoring in these areas to track the potential population growth of this pest and complete some individual tree treatments in the most heavily infested areas.
RALEIGH – Staff with the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services expect to begin treating spongy moth infestations in Waynesville as early as May 2 and could continue through May 5, depending on weather conditions.
The Boll Weevil Eradication Foundation of North Carolina Board of Directors has set the 2025 boll weevil assessment at 75 cents per acre of cotton. This marks the eighth year where the rate has remained the same. The fee supports the foundation’s efforts to monitor cotton acreage in North Carolina for any reintroduction of the boll weevil and to respond promptly with eradication treatments if necessary.