Why an Agronomic Services Division?
Agricultural efficiency affects every North Carolinian—economically and environmentally. When efficiency declines, growers lose money, consumers face higher costs and reduced food safety, and the state experiences environmental degradation that burdens future generations.
The Agronomic Services Division helps prevent these issues by providing reliable, science‑based guidance on soil and land management. With expert information on fertilization, liming, nematode control, irrigation, and waste management, growers and homeowners can make informed decisions instead of relying on guesswork.
Samples Processed
Advising, Educational and Research Contacts
The Agronomic Division is committed to research, education, and community service. Here are a few ways we participate in the advancement of agriculture:
- Advisory consultations with growers
- Lab tours
- Research projects
- Technical publications
- Participating in professional conferences
- Conducting environmental consultations
- Adopt A Stream - Richland Creek Stream near the Eaddy Building in Raleigh
Impacts of the Agronomic Division
- Predictive soil testing methodologies (Mehlich-1 and -3) that are used throughout the world.
- Methods for determining lime requirements and percent humic matter.
- Pinewood assay to support export industry.
- Molecular diagnostic testing of nematodes for guava root knot nematode.
- Helping N.C. growers monitor soil fertility, thereby protecting the environment from excessive use of fertilizers, particularly nitrogen.
- Quantifying the nutrient content of waste products to facilitate their responsible use as fertilizer.
- Identifying fields that do not contain plant-parasitic nematodes, thus avoiding unnecessary application of pesticides.
- Helping to cut farm expenses by avoiding unnecessary applications of fertilizer and nematicides.
- Analyzing plant tissue samples to identify and avert nutrient problems before they reach a critical stage and cause economic loss.
- Assisting growers in fine tuning fertility of high value, intensively managed crops such as strawberries.
- Providing a soil testing service that allow farmers to use variable-rate fertilizer application that maximizes the use of fertilizer inputs.
Field Services
Agronomist examining small grains.
Agronomist collecting soil samples on Christmas tree farm.
Agronomist helping hydroponics grower.
Agronomist providing assistance with canola.
Agronomist assessing the status of strawberry plants.
Agronomist assisting with poinsettias in greenhouse.
Agronomists flying drone over tobacco field.
The Carolina Star Program is designed to recognize employers and employees who have implemented effective safety and health management systems and maintain injury and illness rates that meet the criteria for participation. The Agronomic Services Division has maintained its designation as a Carolina Public Sector Star Site since 2010.
