Public Affairs - Ag Review Feature Stories 2022

New entertainment and vendors joining favorites at the 2022 N.C. Mountain State Fair | NC Agriculture

North Carolina achieves HPAI-free status | NC Agriculture

Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund awards more than $10 million for conservation easements on 4,377 acres | NC Agriculture

As I have gotten older and especially as I have been blessed with grandchildren, I see how true the
saying “time flies” is.
It seems like it was about a year ago that we were talking about the last Census of Agriculture, which is
taken every five years by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. But it is Census time again.
North Carolina producers should have received their 2022 Census in the mail. Questionnaires were sent
out to around 87,000 known producers in the state with information on how to fill out the form or how to go
online and enter your information.
I know people can be reluctant to share their information but answering the questions on the Census of
Agriculture is important for agriculture because it allows growers at every level to have their voice be heard.
By answering the questions, you are contributing to a source of impartial, comprehensive state and
county level data. But is only comprehensive if everyone takes a few minutes to answer the questions.
The information collected is helpful to federal and local governments, agribusinesses, extension staff,
researchers and others in making informed decisions on matters that affect the farming community and
agribusinesses.
Protecting and conserving farmland is a big priority in North Carolina and information collected as part
of the Census helps us keep track of how many farms we have and the amount of land in farms. That becomes
powerful information when compared to other states across the country. We see where we stack up, and the
level of risk of farm loss.
Additionally, we also get a true picture of the size of farms in North Carolina. While we do have a
number of large farms, we are primarily a small farm state and the numbers in the Census help illustrate that
point the best. It literally provides the number of farms that fall into predetermined revenue ranges.
Those are just a couple of broad insights gained from the Census of Agriculture, but you will also see
information on commodity production and comparisons to other years along with highs and lows for
production.
I cannot urge you enough to take a few minutes when you receive your questionnaire to answer the
questions. The information you provide is kept confidential and will be part of aggregated numbers so as not to reveal individual producer’s information.
Interestingly, the Census of Agriculture can trace its roots back to 1820 when U.S. Marshalls began
asking whether anyone in households were engaged in agriculture as part of a decennial, or every 10 years,
census. In 1840, the Census of Agriculture officially came into existence, becoming a standalone questionnaire.
The Census of Agriculture is an ever-evolving document, reflecting the changing landscape and nature
of agriculture and industry needs. Stakeholder meetings are routinely held that help determine what questions to
ask.
Please take a few minutes to fill out the Census and have your voice counted in agriculture.

Food Assistance Program for Seniors grows in NC

Applications open for N.C. State Fair Farm Family of the Day Program | NC Agriculture

N.C. Pesticide Board announces recent case settlements | NC Agriculture

2022 N.C. Mountain State Fair offers more ways to save | NC Agriculture

N.C. State Fair online advance tickets now available at discounted prices | NC Agriculture

Competitions opened for 2022 N.C. State Fair | NC Agriculture

NCDA&CS Announces 2022-23 Culinary Ambassadors | NC Agriculture

NCDA & CS responding to spotted lanternfly; what's next

September

  Test your bulk soilless potting media before planting greenhouse crops.

  Before planting greenhouse crops, propagating woody plants or beginning seasonal flower production, commercial producers should sample and test the bulk soilless media they plan to grow their plants in. The procedure, known as saturated media extract (SME), measures nutrient concentration, electrical conductivity and pH. The cost is $5 per sample for North Carolina residents and $25 for out-of-state residents, and test results are available online two working days after samples are checked in to the laboratory. 

   Prepare gardens for fall/winter.

  First, if you haven’t had your soil tested in the last three years, do it now! Act now because after October the lab will begin receiving end-of-season samples from farmers, and the wait for reports will be longer.

  If your report indicates that lime should be applied to raise soil pH, don’t delay. Winter soil is usually moist and helps lime neutralize soil acidity before spring planting. However, don’t add lime unless the soil report recommends it! Excess lime can make some nutrients unavailable to plants.

  Second, consider protecting garden soils by planting a cover crop or putting out mulch. Legumes—such as crimson clover, hairy vetch, Austrian winter pea—add nitrogen to the soil as well as organic matter when they decompose in the spring. In addition, crimson clover is a beautiful sight when it blooms! Another option is to plant greens such as mustard or kale and enjoy eating the small leaves as they grow.

  If you don’t plant a cover crop, you should apply a 2-inch layer of mulch, such as composted leaf material, shredded or chipped pine bark, or pine needles. Straw can also be used if it is good quality without weed seeds. The mulch should be thick enough to reduce weed seed germination and retain soil moisture without impeding adequate water and air movement.

  Once you have made these preparations, do not apply fertilizer until spring unless you are planting a fall vegetable garden. In that case, you can still follow these suggestions (even sowing a cover crop around the vegetable beds!), but you will also need to apply fertilizer as recommended on your soil report.

Horse events
Southeastern Ag Center, Lumberton 910-618-5699
Sept. 3 Barrel Racing Shaun McMillian Memorial. Donald McMillian, 910-374-1483.
Sept. 5 Horse & Tack Auction. Contact Brad Stephens, 828-390-0878.
Sen. Bob Martin Agricultural Center, Williamston, 252-792-5111
Sept. 3 & 4 NCHJA “C” Horse Show. Contact Emily Bates, 252-378-4474.
Sept. 9-11 NCHJA – Tarheel Fall Classic. Contact Lynn Bodine, 704-905-6540.
Sept. 24 & 25 United Horsemen of the Carolina’s Open Horse Show. Contact Nancy Barbee,
919-619-1786.
Oct. 14&15 NCHJA “C” Horse Show. Contact Nancy Barbee, 919-619-1786.
Oct. 20-23 SERHA Main Event & Reining Horse Foundation Derbies. Contact Terri Mainey,
919623-6054.
Nov. 18 & 19 NC Barrel Bonanza. Contact Fred Smith, 252-883-1641.
Dec. 3 & 4 NCHJA “C” Horse Show. Contact Emily Bates, 252-378-4474.
WNC Ag Center, Fletcher 828-687-1414
Oct. 6-8 N.C. Walking Horse Show. Contact Myra Helton, 704-718-4152.
Gov. James B. Hunt Jr. Horse Complex, State Fairgrounds, Raleigh, 919-
Sept. 3 & 4 Labor of Love Dressage Show. Contact Wendy Warner.
Sept. 10 & 11 UPHA Chapter 12 Preview Weekend. Contact Peyton Hamilton, 803-431-1991.
Sept. 14-17 UPHA Chapter 12 N.C. State Championship Show. Contact Peyton Hamilton, 803-
431-1991.
Sept. 24 & 25 Triangle Wide Horseman’s Association Open Show. Contact Kim Moser, 919-
201-3606.
Sept. 24 & 25 Finally Farm Horse Show Series. Contact Lesley Jenks, 919-280-8087.
Oct. 1-3 Triangle Farms Fall Fling Indoors. Contact Joan Petty, 919-669-9877.

Bucolic briefs
Landowners with farms for sale or lease and farmers seeking land can also post their information at the

The Equestrian Exchange Tack Consignment Fall Sale, one of the largest in the state, is scheduled for
Sept 1-5 at the Holshouser Building at the State Fairgrounds Raleigh. Buy and consign anything
related to the equestrian sport: saddles, tack, driving equipment, show clothing for all disciplines of
riding, barn supplies, carts, other animal items and more. Horse trailers to sell for representation fee
only. Bar code tagging on the exchnage’s web site allows consignor to view sales from home. Tagging
guidelines mandatory. Consignors drop off priced, tagged items Aug. 30 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and
Aug. 31 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Special premier shopping night is open to public for $10 cash only
admission, age 12 and under get in for free, Sept. 1 from 5 to10 p.m. Open shopping with free
admission is Sept. 2 and Sept. 3 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sept. 4 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sept. 5
from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Some items discounted half off on final shopping day.
Consignors pick up unsold items Sept. 7 from 1:30 to 9 :30 p.m. or they will be donated. Please make
arrangements if you want unsold items returned. Refer to our donation page to see how we help our
equestrian programs in our community. Consignors earn 70%, donate unsold items to N.C. nonprofit
equestrian organizations if desired. Volunteers all ages needed, shop before consignors, consignors
shop before public. Sign up on web site. Payment accepted: cash, NC checks with two IDs approved,
credit cards with 3 % fee/per card transaction. N.C. Government regulations for COVID followed for
everyone's safety. Drop and Go and Pick Up and Go consigning available, see website. Waivers to be
signed at drop off. For more, go to www.EquestrianExchange.com or contact Lynn Beeson at 336-
362-6248 or Tanya Wright at 540-977-1950.
The N.C. Simmental Association will hold its annual Fall Harvest Sale including bull, cows, bred &
open heifers and embryo lots at noon, Sept. 3, at the Shuffler Sale Facility in Union Grove. Call 336-
468-1679 or email ncsa@yadtel.net for a sale catalog, or view an online catalog at
parkelivestock.com.
The Jewel of the Blue Ridge Vineyard & Greenhouse in Marshall will offer Mountain Grape School
with the following in-person classes/workshops: Harvesting Workshop – Sept. 10; Muscadine Home
Winemaking – Oct. 1; and Entertaining With Wine – Oct. 15.
Class times are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays All classes are $40 per person and includes a catered
lunch. Register online at www.JeweloftheBlueRidge.com. Registration cutoff is 48 hours prior to the
class/workshop. Call Chuck Blethen, Jewel of the Blue Ridge Vineyard & Greenhouse Walapini, at
828-606-3130.
The Leonard-Mobley Small Farms Fund grant for small North Carolina farmers, including women in
agriculture, in Franklin, Nash, Chatham, Person, Granville, Halifax, Durham, Wake, Wilson, Vance
and Warren counties will be awarded Sept. 11 at the 7th Annual “Dinner in the Meadow” farm-to-fork
feast held at Meadow Lane Farm near Louisburg. The dinner showcases local foods prepared by 12
North Carolina chefs. For more information or questions, contact Dr. Francesco Tiezzi or Tammy
Manning at lmsmallfarmfund@gmail.com. More information on the grant and the dinner can be found
online at www.DinnerintheMeadow.org. Proceeds from the dinner and silent auction will benefit the
fund, which was set up in memory of two farm family members. Tickets for the dinner can be
purchased at the website
The 80th N.C. Gourd Arts and Crafts Festival will be Nov. 5 & 6 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the
Holshouser Building on the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh. Admission is $3 for adults and free for
children 12 and under. This festival features displays of gourds from around the world, special gourd
workshops, and vendors of dried gourds, gourd seeds, gourd crafts, gourd art, books, t-shirts and
crafting supplies. Great holiday presents! A variety of competitive categories are awarded ribbons and
prizes. Details about the festival and a listing of gourd crafting workshops are on the website:
www.ncgourdsociety.org. For more information, call Paul Buescher, N.C. Gourd Society, at 919-696-
0744.
***
As a way to help farmers and agricultural workers stay safe at work, the N.C. Department of Labor
offers safety videos on a variety of topics through its YouTube channel. Video topics include:
preventing green tobacco sickness, hazard communication, tobacco harvester safety, heat stress,
migrant housing requirements, forklift safety, and information about the NCDOL’s Gold Star Growers
program. The videos are in English and Spanish to increase understanding of safety hazards and
preventing accidents. To learn more about the NCDOL and the Agricultural Safety and Health Bureau,
go to www.nclabor.com or call 1-800-NC-LABOR (800-625-2267). NCDOL is also on Facebook and
Twitter (@NCDOL).
***
Beekeepers with bees for rent and growers interested in bee pollination services can post their
information on the BeeLinked website 
Anyone interested in listing their information can do so by filling out an online Submit Your Ad form
on the BeeLinked page or by contacting NCDA&CS at 919-233-8214 or by email at
NCHoneybee@ncagr.gov or call NCSU at 919-515-1660. The NCDA&CS Plant Industry Division
regulates the movement of agricultural or related items capable of spreading harmful insects, diseases,
and other pests. Beekeepers participating in this program will be required to comply with all honey and
bee industry regulations.
***
The N.C. Ag Finance Authority provides credit to agriculture in areas where financing is not available
at reasonable rates and terms. The agency originates, services and finances farm loans, rural business
loans, disaster loans and cotton gin loans. It also offers tax-exempt ag development bonds for
agribusiness processing, ag-related manufacturing or ag waste disposal. For more about Ag Finance
Authority programs or to request a loan application, call 919-790-3949 or email at
RequestLoanInfo@ncagr.gov.
***

Farmland Preservation Hits Milestone

NCDA&CS finds spotted lanternfly in Forsyth County | NC Agriculture

Make your plans to attend the N.C. Mountain State Fair Sept. 9-18 at the WNC Ag Center in  Fletcher. Advance tickets are on sale now, offering fairgoers an opportunity to save money and time.
Advance adult admission is $9 versus $12 at the gate, kids 6-12 are $5 compared to $7 at the gate and seniors 65 and older are $5.
Vouchers for ride tickets are also available in advance at a savings. A sheet of 21 tickets is $12 in advance compared to $20 at the fair.
Special promotion days offer one price ride handstamps. Sept. 9 and 16, fairgoers are offered unlimited rides for $25. Sept. 12 and 16, unlimited rides are offered from 4- 11 p.m. 
The Mountain State Fair is one of the premier fall events in Western N.C. showcasing and celebrating Western North Carolina arts, crafts, music, dance, agriculture and traditions.

North Carolina farmers are dealing with so much right now – high fuel costs, fertilizer costs
through the roof, dry conditions, supply chain issues just to name a few.
There’s so much going on that hurricanes and tropical storms quite frankly may not be on their
radar.
But that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be. We have officially entered hurricane season in North
Carolina, and our state has had more than its fair share of them. In the last six to eight years we
have been hit with more storms than in the previous six to eight years.
This year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting an above
average season, but I hope they are wrong.
Predictions of a busy season is one of the reasons why I encourage farmers every year to
review their emergency plans with workers and anyone involved in their farming operation.
Be sure everyone involved in your operation knows where to meet and make sure that
preparation and recovery duties are prioritized and assigned. This allows your team to quickly
get to work before and after a storm.
Our Emergency Programs division recently rolled out a newly designed website, meant to
collect information and resources for disaster response in one place for easy access in times of
crisis.
The new layout is designed around the three core parts of disaster management, Prepare,
Respond and Recover. Under each category, you’ll see links to resources and organizations
who can help with each step of that process.
Preparation is perhaps the most important thing that the average person can do heading into
storm season. The new site includes resources that can help anyone get ready for an emergency,
while also offering some specific tools for farmers and other people in agriculture.
For farmers, pay particular attention to the new site’s “Farm and Emergency Planning &
Preparedness” section. Here you’ll find links to preparedness information from NCDA&CS,
N.C. State Extension and the Extension Disaster Education Network, as well as a template for
your own disaster plan that you can fill out and have on hand in time of emergency.
 

Flooding after storms has been especially problematic in the past. Areas that have not been
known to flood, have flooded, so having a good flood plan in place is necessary.
Work is underway throughout North Carolina to remove debris along waterways and streams
through the Streamflow Rehabilitation Assistance Program. This is in an effort to help remove
obstacles from waterways that slow down the flow of water following storms.
We have a lot of work to do in this area as a state, but this program is a proactive measure,
with a total of $38 million in funding earmarked from the N.C. General Assembly. The program
is overseen by the state’s Soil and Water Conservation Commission, working closely with the
Division of Soil and Water Conservation within the N.C. Department of Agriculture and
Consumer Services.
Being prepared on the farm is also a proactive measure. Some steps you can take on the farm
include clearing debris from drainage ditches so water can flow freely.
Identify high ground on your farm to move livestock and equipment to.
Move livestock off the farm prior to a storm if options are available for that.
Have photos of valuables items stored off site. Store all business records above flood level.
It’s always a good idea to have important phone numbers handy following a storm. Cell
phones help make that easier,but be sure you have the contact number for county extension
agents, insurance agents, the county Farm Service Agency and your private veterinarian.
It is my hope that the preparation and the review of your farm’s emergency plan is just a good
reminder and is not needed this year.

Independent meat and seafood processors can apply for $15 million in grants through NCDA&CS to improve production, efficiency and capacity | NC Agriculture

Goldsboro company recalls dog treats after tests by NCDA&CS show presence of Salmonella | NC Agriculture

N.C. Forest Service offering tree seedlings for sale | NC Agriculture

N.C. Mountain State Fair competition entries open | NC Agriculture

FFA shapes lives, prepares students for the future

Livestock Marketing is what Will Thompson was born into

August

  Turnaround time is optimal for soil samples submitted in August.

  The Agronomic Division’s soil testing lab is processing samples quickly now but will be increasingly busy toward the end of the year. Homeowners, landscapers, golf course superintendents and others with flexible schedules are urged to submit samples before the lab's fall busy season. If cool-season lawn grasses and pastures need to be reseeded, sampling now will make it possible to apply lime well in advance of September or October planting.
   Get rapid identification of plant-parasitic nematode species with new test.

  The Agronomic Division's Nematode Assay Section offers a new test that identifies plant-parasitic nematodes based on analysis of molecular DNA. The test costs $10 per sample (instead of $3), but results are available within a couple of days (instead of weeks), and reports can identify nematodes accurately to species. This is particularly useful information for growers who depend on resistant cultivars and/or crop rotation to suppress nematode populations. For more information on this test and how to sample, contact Dr. Weimin Ye at 919-733-2655 or via e-mail at weimin.ye@ncagr.gov.
   Tissue test now to plan for blackberry fertilization next season.

  Collect a plant tissue sample about 10–14 days after harvest. Each sample should include 25–30 most recent mature leaves from the primocane. Sampling the floricane is not recommended unless it is specifically to diagnose a problem. If you have different varieties, submit separate samples for each one. Now is also an appropriate time to submit a corresponding soil sample.
   Focus on strawberry fertility.

  Take soil samples and apply any recommended lime as soon as possible. Generally, strawberries need 100–120 lb of nitrogen per acre per season. Prior to building the beds and laying plastic, apply 30–60 lb of nitrogen along with any phosphorus or potassium recommended on the soil report. Even when soils are high in phosphorus, an additional application of 30 lb can be beneficial for root growth in the fall. Other nutrients that may have a beneficial effect at this time are sulfur and boron (1 lb/acre).
   Continue to use tissue analysis to optimize timing of flue-cured tobacco harvest.

  Collect tissue samples five to ten days before each anticipated leaf harvest to determine ripeness. An appropriate sample consists of 10 to 12 leaves from the appropriate stalk position.

Horse events
Southeastern Ag Center, Lumberton 910-618-5699
Aug. 1 Horse and Tack Auction. Contact Brad Stephens, 828-390-0878.
Aug. 6 & 7 Carolina Paint Horse Club Show. Contact Lori Smith, 336-309-9470.
Aug. 12 & 13 Barrel Racing. Contact Justin Hill, 910-705-6900.
Aug. 19-21 Cowboy Mounted Shooting. Contact Pamela Lohrey, 540-570-8785.
Sept. 3 Barrel Racing Shaun McMillian Memorial. Donald McMillian, 910-374-1483.
Sept. 5 Horse & Tack Auction. Contact Brad Stephens, 828-390-0878.
Sen. Bob Martin Agricultural Center, Williamston, 252-792-5111
Aug. 13 & 14 August’s Just Horsin’ Round Open Horse Show; www.justhorsinround.com
Aug. 19-21 NCQHA District 5 Endless Summer Horse Show. Contact Susan Daniels, 919-894-
0600.
Aug. 26-29 Fallin’ Into Autumn Horse Show. Contact Travis Alford, 252-450-5438.
Sept. 3 & 4 NCHJA “C” Horse Show. Contact Emily Bates, 252-378-4474.
Sept. 9-11 NCHJA – Tarheel Fall Classic. Contact Lynn Bodine, 704-905-6540.
Sept. 24 & 25 United Horsemen of the Carolina’s Open Horse Show. Contact Nancy Barbee,
919-619-1786.
WNC Ag Center, Fletcher 828-687-1414
Oct. 6-8 N.C. Walking Horse Show. Contact Myra Helton, 704-718-4152.
Gov. James B. Hunt Jr. Horse Complex, State Fairgrounds, Raleigh,
Aug. 6 &7 Finally Farm Horse Show Series. Contact Lesley Jenks, 919-280-8087.
Aug. 6 & 7 Trianglewide Horsemans Association TWHA Show. Contact Kim Moser, 919-201-
3606.
Aug. 12 -14 Triangle Farms Happy to Show. Contact Joan Petty, 919-669-9877.
Aug. 26-28 NCHJA C Indoors. Contact Joan Petty, 919-669-9877.
Sept. 3 & 4 Labor of Love Dressage Show. Contact Wendy Warner.
Sept. 10 & 11 UPHA Chapter 12 Preview Weekend. Contact Peyton Hamilton, 803-431-1991.
Sept. 14-17 UPHA Chapter 12 N.C. State Championship Show. Contact Peyton Hamilton, 803-
431-1991.
Sept. 24 & 25 Triangle Wide Horseman’s Association Open Show. Contact Kim Moser, 919-
201-3606.
Sept. 24 & 25 Finally Farm Horse Show Series. Contact Lesley Jenks, 919-280-8087.
Oct. 1-3 Triangle Farms Fall Fling Indoors. Contact Joan Petty, 919-669-9877.

Bucolic briefs
The election of pork producer delegate candidates for the 2023 National Pork Producers (Pork Act)
Delegate Body will take place at 1 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 4, in conjunction with a Board of Directors
meeting of the N.C. Pork Council at the Steve Troxler Agricultural Sciences Center, 4400 Reedy Creek
Road, Raleigh, NC, 27607. All North Carolina pork producers are invited to attend.
Any producer, age 18 or older, who is a resident of North Carolina and has paid all assessments due
since August 2021 may be considered as a delegate candidate and/or participate in the election. All
eligible producers are encouraged to have available a sales receipt proving that hogs were sold in their
name and the checkoff was deducted. For more information, contact Amy Cave at 919-781-0361 or
amy@ncpork.org or the N.C. Pork Council, 4000 Westchase Blvd, Suite 330, Raleigh, NC 27607.
Landowners with farms for sale or lease and farmers seeking land can also post their information at the

The Equestrian Exchange Tack Consignment Fall Sale, one of the largest in the state, is scheduled for
Sept 1-5 at the Holshouser Building at the State Fairgrounds Raleigh. Buy and consign anything
related to the equestrian sport: saddles, tack, driving equipment, show clothing for all disciplines of
riding, barn supplies, carts, other animal items and more. Horse trailers to sell for representation fee
only. Bar code tagging on the exchnage’s web site allows consignor to view sales from home. Tagging
guidelines mandatory. Consignors drop off priced, tagged items Aug. 30 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and
Aug. 31 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Special premier shopping night is open to public for $10 cash only
admission, age 12 and under get in for free, Sept. 1 from 5 to10 p.m. Open shopping with free
admission is Sept. 2 and Sept. 3 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sept. 4 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sept. 5
from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Some items discounted half off on final shopping day.
Consignors pick up unsold items Sept. 7 from 1:30 to 9 :30 p.m. or they will be donated. Please make
arrangements if you want unsold items returned. Refer to our donation page to see how we help our
equestrian programs in our community. Consignors earn 70%, donate unsold items to N.C. nonprofit
equestrian organizations if desired. Volunteers all ages needed, shop before consignors, consignors
shop before public. Sign up on web site. Payment accepted: cash, NC checks with two IDs approved,
credit cards with 3 % fee/per card transaction. N.C. Government regulations for COVID followed for
everyone's safety. Drop and Go and Pick Up and Go consigning available, see website. Waivers to be
signed at drop off. For more, go to www.EquestrianExchange.com or contact Lynn Beeson at 336-
362-6248 or Tanya Wright at 540-977-1950.
The N.C. Simmental Association will hold its annual Fall Harvest Sale including bull, cows, bred &
open heifers and embryo lots at noon, Sept. 3, at the Shuffler Sale Facility in Union Grove. Call 336-
468-1679 or email ncsa@yadtel.net for a sale catalog, or view an online catalog at
parkelivestock.com.
The Jewel of the Blue Ridge Vineyard & Greenhouse in Marshall will offer Mountain Grape School
with the following in-person classes/workshops: Harvesting Workshop – Sept. 10; Muscadine Home
Winemaking – Oct. 1; and Entertaining With Wine – Oct. 15.
Class times are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays All classes are $40 per person and includes a catered
lunch. Register online at www.JeweloftheBlueRidge.com. Registration cutoff is 48 hours prior to the
class/workshop. Call Chuck Blethen, Jewel of the Blue Ridge Vineyard & Greenhouse Walapini, at
828-606-3130.
The Leonard-Mobley Small Farms Fund grant for small North Carolina farmers, including women in
agriculture, in Franklin, Nash, Chatham, Person, Granville, Halifax, Durham, Wake, Wilson, Vance
and Warren counties will be awarded Sept. 11 at the 7th Annual “Dinner in the Meadow” farm-to-fork
feast held at Meadow Lane Farm near Louisburg. The dinner showcases local foods prepared by 12
North Carolina chefs. For more information or questions, contact Dr. Francesco Tiezzi or Tammy
Manning at lmsmallfarmfund@gmail.com. More information on the grant and the dinner can be found
online at www.DinnerintheMeadow.org. Proceeds from the dinner and silent auction will benefit the
fund, which was set up in memory of two farm family members. Tickets for the dinner can be
purchased at the website.
As a way to help farmers and agricultural workers stay safe at work, the N.C. Department of Labor
offers safety videos on a variety of topics through its YouTube channel. Video topics include:
preventing green tobacco sickness, hazard communication, tobacco harvester safety, heat stress,
migrant housing requirements, forklift safety, and information about the NCDOL’s Gold Star Growers
program. The videos are in English and Spanish to increase understanding of safety hazards and
preventing accidents. To learn more about the NCDOL and the Agricultural Safety and Health Bureau,
go to www.nclabor.com or call 1-800-NC-LABOR (800-625-2267). NCDOL is also on Facebook and
Twitter (@NCDOL).
***
Beekeepers with bees for rent and growers interested in bee pollination services can post their
information on the BeeLinked website

. The site is hosted by the N.C.
Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the N.C. State University Apiculture Program.
Anyone interested in listing their information can do so by filling out an online Submit Your Ad form
on the BeeLinked page or by contacting NCDA&CS at 919-233-8214 or by email at
NCHoneybee@ncagr.gov or call NCSU at 919-515-1660. The NCDA&CS Plant Industry Division
regulates the movement of agricultural or related items capable of spreading harmful insects, diseases,
and other pests. Beekeepers participating in this program will be required to comply with all honey and
bee industry regulations.
***
The N.C. Ag Finance Authority provides credit to agriculture in areas where financing is not available
at reasonable rates and terms. The agency originates, services and finances farm loans, rural business
loans, disaster loans and cotton gin loans. It also offers tax-exempt ag development bonds for
agribusiness processing, ag-related manufacturing or ag waste disposal. For more about Ag Finance
Authority programs or to request a loan application, call 919-790-3949 or email at
RequestLoanInfo@ncagr.gov.
***

NCDA&CS lifts poultry show and sale suspension | NC Agriculture

Independent meat and seafood processors can apply for $15 million in grants through NCDA&CS to improve production, efficiency and capacity | NC Agriculture

July 14 -- Bermudagrass Field Day, Piedmont Research Station, Salisbury
July 19 -- Fiber Hemp Field Day, Piedmont Research Station, Salisbury
July 21 – Mountain Research Station Field Day, Waynesville
July 28 – Apple Field Day, Mountain Horticulture Crops Research & Extension Center, Mills River
Aug. 3 – Blackland Farm Manager Tour, Southland Farms and Howell Farms, 3385 Swindell
Road, Pantego
Aug. 11 – Tomato Field Day, Mountain Horticulture Crops Research & Extension Center, Mills River
Aug. 17 – Chrome Regional Ag Expo, Peanut Belt Research Station, Lewiston-Woodville
Sept. 8 – Peanut Field Day, Peanut Belt Research Station, Lewiston-Woodville
Sept. 12 -- Farmer Appreciation Social, Piedmont Research Station, Salisbury
Sept. 13 – South Eastern Peanut Field Day, Border Belt Tobacco Research Station, Whiteville
Sept. 17 – Pollinator Field Day, Caswell Research Farm
Sept. 28 -- Soybean Field Day, Piedmont Research Station, Salisbury

Dr. Mike Walden, professor emeritus and a retired William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor and
Extension Economist at North Carolina State University, recently released his latest agriculture and
agribusiness economic impact numbers. While they were not what I had hoped for, they were certainly not
unexpected.
The figures are factored on 2020’s agriculture numbers, which reflected the impact of the pandemic.
I’ll rip the Band-aid off and tell you we did not top $100 billion in economic impact, but agriculture and
agribusiness continued to account for one-sixth of the state’s income and employment. And agriculture and
agribusiness remain North Carolina’s No. 1 industry.
Dr. Walden’s figures pointed to over $92.9 billion in economic impact. That is down around $3 billion
from the previous year.
Agriculture and agribusinesses continued to work and work hard throughout the pandemic, but there
were challenges along the way, and those challenges were reflected in the overall impact numbers.
To be a farmer, you’ve got to be pretty optimistic going into every season. Throughout the season, you
work to manage the risks – not enough rain, too much rain, late frosts, plant pests, crop nutrient needs and
many others.
When I planted a crop, I always went into the season thinking it was going to be a good one. I had hoped
this would be the year we saw the economic impact top $100 billion, but it is not.
Regardless, I am undeterred in my belief that we will reach the $100 billion mark shortly.
Employment numbers in agriculture and agribusiness remained steady at 668,000 of the state’s 4.3
million employees and agriculture’s percentage of the state’s income remained about the same.
I am confident we are going to hit this milestone and that will be a good day, but it’s important to
remember that it is just a number. In fact, these numbers reflect years that are already completed.
It’s the farms and farmers, it’s the long days of hard work and determination behind those numbers that
are what really matter.
And it is the food and fiber that our farmers produce that is most important.
I am proud of the diversity of North Carolina agriculture and I am proud of the resiliency of our farmers.
Our agriculture industry makes us a better state for it.
***
I want to thank everyone who came out to the Got to Be NC Festival after a two-year break due to
COVID-19. Attendance was good despite the very warm weather, North Carolina food and beverage
vendors showcased and sold their products and we recognized several of Junior Livestock scholarship
recipients.

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  July

  Mulch to prevent blossom-end rot of tomatoes.

  If garden soils have adequate moisture and a pH in the range of 6.3 to 6.5, tomatoes are not likely to have blossom-end rot. Although this common problem is largely due to calcium deficiency, fertilization is not usually the answer. Any soil with a pH of 6.3 to 6.5 will contain enough calcium. However, during dry periods, plants cannot take up the calcium that is there. If your soil pH is good, you can optimize calcium availability by managing soil moisture. Make sure your plants get an inch of water each week, but be careful not to overwater! Apply 2 to 4 inches of mulch (pine bark, straw, leaf compost or other organic material) to help the soil retain moisture.
   Collect cotton tissue samples.

  Collect tissue samples (MRMLs + detached petioles) weekly beginning at early growth (at least by matchhead square or one week before first bloom) and continuing for three to four weeks after first bloom. Follow current NCDA&CS cotton tissue sampling protocol:  

   Collect other agronomic samples as needed.

      Forages
       Note: Forage samples for animal feed analysis should be sent to the NCDA&CS Food & Drug Protection Division. The plant tissue analysis service offered through the NCDA&CS Agronomic Division provides nutrient information relevant to crop fertilization not animal nutrition.

      Home & Garden
       Take soil samples now to prepare for fall planting projects such as vegetable gardens, tree and shrub installation and renovation/maintenance of cool-season lawns. Remember:  1) Do not wait until fall to submit soil samples for home landscape projects. There is a fee for soil tests in late fall and winter. 2) You can submit your soil sample information online through PALS all year!

      Nursery Crops
       Collect pour-thru leachate solution samples to monitor pH, electrical conductivity (EC) and nutrient levels.

      Tobacco
       Collect tissue samples five to ten days before each anticipated leaf harvest to determine ripeness. An appropriate sample consists of 10 to 12 leaves from the appropriate stalk position.

Horse events
Southeastern Ag Center, Lumberton 910-618-5699
July 4 Horse and Tack Auction. Contact Brad Stephens, 828-390-0878.
Aug. 1 Horse and Tack Auction. Contact Brad Stephens, 828-390-0878.
Aug. 6 & 7 Carolina Paint Horse Club Show. Contact Lori Smith, 336-309-9470.
Sen. Bob Martin Agricultural Center, Williamston, 252-792-5111
July 15-17 Little River Circuit. Contact Susan Daniels, 919-894-0600.
WNC Ag Center, Fletcher 828-687-1414
July 13-16 Asheville Summer Fun. Contact Liz Holmes, 919-672-3741.
July 19-23 Blue Ridge Classic Horse Show. Contact Liz Holmes, 919-672-3741.
Oct. 6-8 N.C. Walking Horse Show. Contact Myra Helton, 704-718-4152.
Gov. James B. Hunt Jr. Horse Complex, State Fairgrounds, Raleigh,
July 7-11 State 4-H Horse Show. Contact Lori Stroud, 919-515-5788.
July 23-25 NCHJA “C” Indoors. Contact Joan Petty, 919-219-0256.
July 24 & 25 TWHA July Show. Contact Kim Moser, 919-219-0256.
July 31-
Aug.1 Raleigh Summer Dressage I & II. Contact Janine Malone, 919-269-7307.
Aug, 7 & 8 Finally Farm Horse Show Series. Contact Lesley Jenks, 919-280-8087.
Aug. 7 & 8 Trianglewide Horsemans Association TWHA Show. Contact Kim Moser, 919-201-
3606.
Aug. 13 -15 Triangle Farms Happy to Show. Contact Joan Petty, 919-669-9877.
Aug. 27-29 NCHJA C Indoors. Contact Joan Petty, 919-669-9877.
Sept. 4 & 5 Labor of Love Dressage Show. Contact Wendy Warner.
Sept. 11 & 12 UPHA Chapter 12 Preview Weekend. Contact Peyton Hamilton, 803-431-1991.
Sept. 15-18 UPHA Chapter 12 N.C. State Championship Show. Contact Peyton Hamilton, 803-
431-1991.
Sept. 25 & 26 Triangle Wide Horseman’s Association Open Show. Contact Kim Moser, 919-
201-3606.
Sept. 25 & 26 Finally Farm Horse Show Series. Contact Lesley Jenks, 919-280-8087.
Oct. 1-3 Triangle Farms Fall Fling Indoors. Contact Joan Petty, 919-669-9877.

Bucolic briefs
The election of pork producer delegate candidates for the 2023 National Pork Producers (Pork Act)
Delegate Body will take place at 1 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 4, in conjunction with a Board of Directors
meeting of the N.C. Pork Council at the Steve Troxler Agricultural Sciences Center, 4400 Reedy Creek
Road, Raleigh, NC, 27607. All North Carolina pork producers are invited to attend.
Any producer, age 18 or older, who is a resident of North Carolina and has paid all assessments due
since August 2021 may be considered as a delegate candidate and/or participate in the election. All
eligible producers are encouraged to have available a sales receipt proving that hogs were sold in their
name and the checkoff was deducted. For more information, contact Amy Cave at 919-781-0361 or
amy@ncpork.org or the N.C. Pork Council, 4000 Westchase Blvd, Suite 330, Raleigh, NC 27607.

The Jewel of the Blue Ridge Vineyard & Greenhouse in Marshall will offer Mountain Grape School
with the following in-person classes/workshops: Harvesting Workshop – Sept. 10; Muscadine Home
Winemaking – Oct. 1; and Entertaining With Wine – Oct. 15.
Class times are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays All classes are $40 per person and includes a catered
lunch. Register online at www.JeweloftheBlueRidge.com. Registration cutoff is 48 hours prior to the
class/workshop. Call Chuck Blethen, Jewel of the Blue Ridge Vineyard & Greenhouse Walapini, at
828-606-3130.
The Leonard-Mobley Small Farms Fund grant for small North Carolina farmers, including women in
agriculture, in Franklin, Nash, Chatham, Person, Granville, Halifax, Durham, Wake, Wilson, Vance
and Warren counties will be awarded Sept. 11 at the 7 th Annual “Dinner in the Meadow” farm-to-fork
feast held at Meadow Lane Farm near Louisburg. The dinner showcases local foods prepared by 12
North Carolina chefs. For more information or questions, contact Dr. Francesco Tiezzi or Tammy
Manning at lmsmallfarmfund@gmail.com. More information on the grant and the dinner can be found
online at www.DinnerintheMeadow.org. Proceeds from the dinner and silent auction will benefit the
fund, which was set up in memory of two farm family members. Tickets for the dinner can be
purchased at the website.
As a way to help farmers and agricultural workers stay safe at work, the N.C. Department of Labor
offers safety videos on a variety of topics through its YouTube channel. Video topics include:
preventing green tobacco sickness, hazard communication, tobacco harvester safety, heat stress,
migrant housing requirements, forklift safety, and information about the NCDOL’s Gold Star Growers
program. The videos are in English and Spanish to increase understanding of safety hazards and
preventing accidents. To learn more about the NCDOL and the Agricultural Safety and Health Bureau,
go to www.nclabor.com or call 1-800-NC-LABOR (800-625-2267). NCDOL is also on Facebook and
Twitter (@NCDOL).
***
Beekeepers with bees for rent and growers interested in bee pollination services can post their
information on the BeeLinked website. The site is hosted by the N.C.
Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the N.C. State University Apiculture Program.
Anyone interested in listing their information can do so by filling out an online Submit Your Ad form
on the BeeLinked page or by contacting NCDA&CS at 919-233-8214 or by email at
NCHoneybee@ncagr.gov or call NCSU at 919-515-1660. The NCDA&CS Plant Industry Division
regulates the movement of agricultural or related items capable of spreading harmful insects, diseases,
and other pests. Beekeepers participating in this program will be required to comply with all honey and
bee industry regulations.
***
The N.C. Ag Finance Authority provides credit to agriculture in areas where financing is not available
at reasonable rates and terms. The agency originates, services and finances farm loans, rural business
loans, disaster loans and cotton gin loans. It also offers tax-exempt ag development bonds for
agribusiness processing, ag-related manufacturing or ag waste disposal. For more about Ag Finance
Authority programs or to request a loan application, call 919-790-3949 or email at
RequestLoanInfo@ncagr.gov.
***

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July 21 – Mountain Research Station Field Day, Waynesville
July 28 – Apple Field Day, Mountain Horticulture Crops Research & Extension Center, Mills River
Aug. 3 – Blackland Farm Manager Tour, Tidewater Research Station, Plymouth
Aug. 11 – Tomato Field Day, Mountain Horticulture Crops Research & Extension Center, Mills River
Aug. 17 – Chrome Regional Ag Expo, Peanut Belt Research Station, Lewiston-Woodville
Sept. 8 – Peanut Field Day, Peanut Belt Research Station, Lewiston-Woodville
Sept. 13 – South Eastern Peanut Field Day, Border Belt Tobacco Research Station, Whiteville
Sept. 17 – Pollinator Field Day, Caswell Research Farm

We recently hosted USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack and EPA Administrator Michael Regan at the
Agricultural Sciences Center for a roundtable discussion with agricultural leaders here in Raleigh. You can
see photos from the event on page 8.
Regan previously served with the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Raleigh
before heading to Washington D.C. to lead EPA. This is Vilsack’s second time serving as Agriculture
Secretary.
It was a great discussion and I was pleased to hear that the two agencies are committed to working
together on Climate Smart initiatives for common sense answers.
One of the biggest take-aways that I wanted to stress with them is that in North Carolina, agriculture is
carbon negative and the industry sequesters 26 percent of offsets in the state. That is significant.
I’ve written before in this column about the need to bring more attention to the positive environmental
contributions of agriculture, and this is a good example of that.
Farmers have a direct, vested and personal interest in caring for our natural resources. They are forward
thinking and are accustomed to doing more with less, especially in uncertain times like we are in today.
The land they farm provides their livelihood. If farmers don’t take care of the land and water, those
resources will not continue to provide for them.
Many farmers I know share the philosophy to, “leave the Earth better than you found it.”
Both Vilsack and Regan recognized and praised the conservation practices agriculture is already
engaged in. Data in the 2020 Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report released by EPA in April points to
agriculture’s contributions.
Calculations provided by American Farm Bureau with EPA data shows that over the past 20 years,
agriculture greenhouse gas emissions have slightly increased. However, farmers are faced with reducing
their footprint while simultaneously feeding more people AND on less land.
Transportation and electricity are the largest contributors (27% and ~25%) of greenhouse gas emissions
in the US.
Conservation practices farmers have been using for the past 50+ years are ones we are still talking about
today-including no-till crops, cover crops, anaerobic digesters, nutrient management and conservation
cover.
Our forestry and land-use practices capture and sequester carbon to go back into the land, again, around
26 percent.
When you look at the percentage of this amount captured by our industry and subtract it from the overall
greenhouse gas emissions of the agricultural industry, the final calculation is a negative footprint (-2%).
One of the things we want to do is to plant more trees in North Carolina, something we have been asking
for federal support to do for some time now.
I believe committing to plant more trees makes sense on a number of levels. Environmentally, there are
benefits to realize, but our forests are also under attack from a number of destructive pests, so it is important
that we monitor forest health and manage these resources to ensure their sustainability. Emerald ash borers,
hemlock wooly adelgids and spongy moths (formerly known as gypsy moths) are a few examples of pests.
I was encouraged by some of the discussion raised during Vilsack and Regan’s visit and I believe they
recognize that farmers should be applauded for their conservation efforts and that federal Climate Smart
initiatives should include opportunities for farmers.
I appreciate Secretary Vilsack and Administrator Regan’s visit and willingness to meet with members of
North Carolina’s agriculture community.

As the weather gets warmer in North Carolina, it’s clear that summer is upon us. Many people
enjoy what summer brings — the warm weather, vacations and relaxing by the pool! But did you
know that you could also help save North Carolina’s trees while enjoying your pool this
summer? The Asian longhorned beetle (ALB) and spotted lanternfly (SLF) are two invasive
insects that are already found in neighboring states, South Carolina and Virginia. For the best
chance of managing these pests, we need to know as soon as possible when they are here! And
since they are attracted to water, they may be found in your pool filters.
ALB and SLF cause significant damage to plants. ALB weakens and eventually kills hardwood
trees, primarily maples, and SLF is an incredible nuisance, feeding on the sap of many plants and
weakening them. ALB can cause damage to structures if trees break as a result of weakening,
especially during storms. Similarly, SLF damages plants and causes issues for numerous
industries (e.g., grapevine and the wine industry), but it also creates sooty mold and a sticky
mess with the honeydew that it excretes!
Early detection is critical for stopping the damage that these pests cause, so we need your help!
Right now, we don’t have reliable traps for either of these pests, which is why we need more
people on the lookout. Thankfully, although maybe not to you, your pools can serve as huge
traps. These pests are attracted to water, so they sometimes end up in pools.
Realistically, these pests could be anywhere! Even if you don’t have a pool, you can still help
stop ALB and SLF by being on the lookout for them. If you see them, report your sightings! It is
especially helpful if you can snap a photo of the insect with an object, such as a coin or a pencil
for size reference. Keep it in a sealed container. Even if you aren’t completely sure that the insect
is ALB or SLF, you can still submit a photo!
Check out the Poolside Pests website for more information about these insects and how you can
help stop them by simply checking your pools. Poolside Pests is a collaborative program
between NC State University Extension, the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and
Consumer Services’ Plant Industry Division and the N.C. Forest Service.1:47 AM 5/18/2022

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June

  Prepare for a fall vegetable garden by soil testing.

  Now is the best time to submit your soil samples for planning a fall vegetable garden. Soil samples submitted have faster turnaround times as the lab is less busy. This will allow for plenty of time to plan for liming and fertilizing. There is a belief among some gardeners that lime cannot be over-applied. Well, it can be. Soil pH that is too high from its over-application can adversely affect plant growth by potentially causing problems with micronutrient availability. Lime also works best if incorporated several months prior to planting since its reaction time is not immediate. Unlike fertilizer, however, it can be applied at any time when its recommended. For N-P-K fertilizers as recommended by soil test, their application needs to be timed near the time of planting and during the actual growing season, depending on the plant’s needs. So, begin planning and take the first step, submit a soil sample!
   Test source water for irrigation systems.

  Before you turn on that drip or overhead irrigation system, it is a good idea to collect samples of your source water and have it tested by the NCDA&CS Agronomic Division. Chemical problems with source water can affect plant growth and quality. By testing water now, you can correct any problems before you start irrigating your crops.

  Solution analysis is a service that measures the chemical properties of water that affect plants. In eastern North Carolina, high alkalinity is a potential water problem. Irrigating with highly alkaline water can lead to an increase in soil pH that can limit availability of some essential plant nutrients, especially micronutrients.

  The solution report indicates whether alkalinity is a potential problem and, if so, provides helpful advice to correct it. Some other potential source water problems include high soluble salts, iron, boron, sodium or chloride. Once identified, these problems can either be corrected or effectively managed to prevent plant growth problems.
   If crop plants are stunted and/or discolored, check for nematodes.

  The best way to find out if nematodes are responsible for an area of poor crop growth is to collect and submit two sets of soil samples: one for nematode assay and one for fertility analysis. An accurate diagnosis of nematode populations during the growing season provides a sound basis for effective management in the future. Knowing the species and numbers present facilitates informed selection of resistant varieties and crop rotation strategies.
   Fertilize centipedegrass lawns in June.

  June is the month to fertilize your centipede grass. Centipede grass differs in rate and schedule of fertilization from other warm season grasses. Centipede requires only 0.5 pound of nitrogen each year. Higher than desired soil pH and phosphorus or inadequate potassium may result in centipede growth problems. If soil sampling was not done in the previous 2-3 years, now is an excellent time to submit samples for faster turnaround times and to determine the rate and best fertilizer to use. Lime will also be recommended if needed.

  Important Reminder: Do not fertilize cool-season lawn grasses—fescue, ryegrass and bluegrass—during the summer. Wait until September.
   Summer is a good time to submit soil samples from lawns & gardens.

  Summer is when the NCDA&CS soil testing lab can process samples most quickly —usually ten days or less. Homeowners and landscapers are urged to submit samples at this time and avoid the peak-season fee (late November through March). Farmers who are maintaining cool-season pastures can also submit soil samples now so they will be ready to apply phosphorus and potassium in late summer or fall.

Horse events
Southeastern Ag Center, Lumberton 910-618-5699
June 6 Horse and Tack Auction. Contact Brad Stephens, 828-390-0878.
June 11 Blackstarr for the American Soldier Barrel Racing. Contact Mustafa, 910-264-8780.
June 17 & 18 Da Bomb Barrel Racing. Contact Josh Smith, 910-639-6387.
Sen. Bob Martin Agricultural Center, Williamston, 252-792-5111
June 4 & 5 NCHJA “C” Horse Show. Contact Bethanna Perry, 252-675-3017.
June 18 &19 June’s Just Horsin’ Round Open Horse Show. Contact Beth Tew.
July 15-17 Little River Circuit. Contact Susan Daniels, 919-894-0600.
WNC Ag Center, Fletcher 828-687-1414
June 16-19 Piedmont Paso Fino Horse Show. Contact Ashley Aldred, 704-778-6717.
June 20-22 West District 4H 3-Day Horsemanship Clinic. Contact Shannon Coleman, 828-837-
2210, ext. 4.
July 13-16 Asheville Summer Fun. Contact Liz Holmes, 919-672-3741.
July 19-23 Blue Ridge Classic Horse Show. Contact Liz Holmes, 919-672-3741.
Oct. 6-8 N.C. Walking Horse Show. Contact Myra Helton, 704-718-4152.
Gov. James B. Hunt Jr. Horse Complex, State Fairgrounds, Raleigh,
June 4 & 5 Capital Dressage Classic. Contact Teresa Uddo, 352-636-2669.
June 9-12 Tar Heel Summer Classic Show. Contact Randy Ratliff, 336-339-8773.
June 16-18 Capital City Classic. Contact Liz Holmes, 919-672-3741.
June 25 & 26 NCAHA Open Summer Extravaganza. Contact Myra Daniel, 919-614-7477.
July 7-11 State 4-H Horse Show. Contact Lori Stroud, 919-515-5788.
July 23-25 NCHJA “C” Indoors. Contact Joan Petty, 919-219-0256.
July 24 & 25 TWHA July Show. Contact Kim Moser, 919-219-0256.
July 31-
Aug.1 Raleigh Summer Dressage I & II. Contact Janine Malone, 919-269-7307.
Aug, 7 & 8 Finally Farm Horse Show Series. Contact Lesley Jenks, 919-280-8087.
Aug. 7 & 8 Trianglewide Horsemans Association TWHA Show. Contact Kim Moser, 919-201-
3606.
Aug. 13 -15 Triangle Farms Happy to Show. Contact Joan Petty, 919-669-9877.
Aug. 27-29 NCHJA C Indoors. Contact Joan Petty, 919-669-9877.

Bucolic briefs
Landowners with farms for sale or lease and farmers seeking land can also post their information at the
NC FarmLink website hosted by the N.C. Cooperative Extension

The Jewel of the Blue Ridge Vineyard & Greenhouse in Marshall will offer Mountain Grape School
with the following in-person classes/workshops: Harvesting Workshop – Sept. 10; Muscadine Home
Winemaking – Oct. 1; and Entertaining With Wine – Oct. 15.
Class times are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays All classes are $40 per person and includes a catered
lunch. Register online at www.JeweloftheBlueRidge.com. Registration cutoff is 48 hours prior to the
class/workshop. Call Chuck Blethen, Jewel of the Blue Ridge Vineyard & Greenhouse Walapini, at
828-606-3130.
The Leonard-Mobley Small Farms Fund grant for small North Carolina farmers, including women in
agriculture, in Franklin, Nash, Chatham, Person, Granville, Halifax, Durham, Wake, Wilson, Vance
and Warren counties will be awarded Sept. 11 at the 7 th Annual “Dinner in the Meadow” farm-to-fork
feast held at Meadow Lane Farm near Louisburg. The dinner showcases local foods prepared by 12
North Carolina chefs. For more information or questions, contact Dr. Francesco Tiezzi or Tammy
Manning at lmsmallfarmfund@gmail.com. More information on the grant and the dinner can be found
online at www.DinnerintheMeadow.org. Proceeds from the dinner and silent auction will benefit the
fund, which was set up in memory of two farm family members. Tickets for the dinner can be
purchased at the website.
Franklin County will host the popular and free 5-County Regional BEEF Tour June 21 from 8 a.m. to 2
p.m. Farms visited will be Springfield Angus, one of the Southeast's premier Black Angus breeders,
Perry Cattle Farm with purebred Simmental and commercial cattle), and First Fruits Farm to highlight
cool and warm season forage test plot. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. in the parking lot of the N.C.
Cooperative Extension, Franklin County Center. Program topics include: Tips for Direct Marketing
Your Beef, Fire Ant Update and Control, Fly Control in the Herd, NRCS's Rainfall Forage Simulator
Demonstration, and review of a Forage Test Plot. A sponsored ribeye steak sandwich will be served at
the last farm stop. The tour concludes with door prizes. Participants will carpool to the
sites. Registration required. For questions, contact Martha Mobley at 919-496-3344.
As a way to help farmers and agricultural workers stay safe at work, the N.C. Department of Labor
offers safety videos on a variety of topics through its YouTube channel. Video topics include:
preventing green tobacco sickness, hazard communication, tobacco harvester safety, heat stress,
migrant housing requirements, forklift safety, and information about the NCDOL’s Gold Star Growers
program. The videos are in English and Spanish to increase understanding of safety hazards and
preventing accidents. To learn more about the NCDOL and the Agricultural Safety and Health Bureau,
go to www.nclabor.com or call 1-800-NC-LABOR (800-625-2267). NCDOL is also on Facebook and
Twitter (@NCDOL).
***
Beekeepers with bees for rent and growers interested in bee pollination services can post their
information on the BeeLinked website The site is hosted by the N.C.
Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the N.C. State University Apiculture Program.
Anyone interested in listing their information can do so by filling out an online Submit Your Ad form
on the BeeLinked page or by contacting NCDA&CS at 919-233-8214 or by email at
NCHoneybee@ncagr.gov or call NCSU at 919-515-1660. The NCDA&CS Plant Industry Division
regulates the movement of agricultural or related items capable of spreading harmful insects, diseases,
and other pests. Beekeepers participating in this program will be required to comply with all honey and
bee industry regulations.
***
The N.C. Ag Finance Authority provides credit to agriculture in areas where financing is not available
at reasonable rates and terms. The agency originates, services and finances farm loans, rural business
loans, disaster loans and cotton gin loans. It also offers tax-exempt ag development bonds for
agribusiness processing, ag-related manufacturing or ag waste disposal. For more about Ag Finance
Authority programs or to request a loan application, call 919-790-3949 or email at
RequestLoanInfo@ncagr.gov.
***

Got to Be NC Festival welcomes guests back May 20-22 | NC Agriculture

The N.C. Department of Revenue plans to launch the application for Phase 2 of the Business Recovery 
Grant program on May 2, 2022, with changes to the program’s eligibility criteria allowing many 
additional businesses to qualify for these grants. Farmers and agribusinesses will now be eligible.
The BRG program will issue a payment to an eligible North Carolina business that suffered an economic 
loss of at least 20 percent during the pandemic. The grant amount is a percentage of the economic loss 
demonstrated by the eligible business or $500,000, whichever is less. The application deadline is June 1.
Many businesses excluded in Phase 1 are eligible to apply in Phase 2. In addition to COVID-impacted 
businesses in the hospitality industry such as restaurants and hotels, the BRG is now open to other 
businesses affected by the pandemic such as:
•Farmers and Agribusinesses
•Gyms and Personal Training businesses
•Salons and Barbershops
•Massage Therapy businesses
•Dental offices
•Law firms
•Doctor offices
•Interior Design businesses
•Hardware Stores
•Pharmacies
•Landscapers
•Tailor and Dry Cleaning businesses
Additionally, a business’s previous receipt of a grant award from certain federal programs will not make 
it ineligible for a reimbursement grant. 
Following the initial application period, which closed on Jan. 31, around $203.5 million remained of the 
$500 million in funds initially authorized for the program. NCDOR worked with the N.C. General 
Assembly to expand eligibility to certain businesses impacted by the pandemic but that did not qualify 
for the first round of funds.
“Our hope is that the expanded Business Recovery Grant program requirements will encourage more 
eligible North Carolina businesses to apply,” said NCDOR Secretary Ronald Penny. 
Two types of grants will be available to eligible businesses for Phase 2:
•A hospitality grant is available to an eligible arts, entertainment, or recreation business, as well as an 
eligible accommodation or food service business such as a hotel, restaurant, or bar (NAICS code 71 and 
72).
•A reimbursement grant is available to an eligible business not classified in NAICS Code 71 and 72. A 
business’s previous receipt of a grant award from certain federal programs will not make it ineligible for 
a reimbursement grant.
Gross receipts reported on the expanded list of tax forms can be used to calculate an economic loss for 
Phase 2, making the BRG available to sole proprietors, corporations and other businesses that do not 
report gross receipts on Form E-500 or Federal Form 1065. This may also provide a larger grant award to 
businesses that primarily provide services.
On May 2, eligible business owners will be able to apply for Phase 2 online at www.ncdor.gov. More 
detailed information and answers to Frequently Asked Questions will also be available on the agency 
website.
The program is being supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SLRFP0129 awarded to 
the State of North Carolina by the U.S. Department of Treasury

Poultry shows and public sales suspended until further notice due to High Path Avian Influenza | NC Agriculture

I like to tell people that the work we do impacts every resident of this state every day. A case in point is our 
inspection of weights and measures devices such as scales and price scanners in retail locations. 
These inspections fall under our Standards Division, which works to ensure fairness in trade through the 
accuracy of weights and measurement tools. Two areas that affect probably every resident is in checking price scanners and gas pumps for accuracy. 
With gas pumps we want to help ensure that if consumers are pumping a gallon of gas that they are 
getting a gallon of gas. Gas pumps are routinely inspected, and you will find a sticker on the pump with the 
department’s name and the month of the last inspection.
In retail stores, Standards inspectors are checking the accuracy of price scanners between what is 
advertised on the shelf and what it rings up at the register.
They also inspect the scales used to determine the weight of some items in the store. For example, deli 
meats and cheeses, produce or seafood sold by the pound.
Over the past six months our inspectors have started seeing an increase in price scanner errors, likely 
associated with ongoing staffing shortages business everywhere are facing. Seeing this uptick serves as a good 
reminder that we all need to be smart consumers when we shop and be aware of the prices advertised and 
compare them to what rings up at the checkout register.
If you find an error, you can report it to a manager so they can quickly correct the issue for you. In my 
experience, stores want to have accurate prices posted and ringing up at checkout, but with weekly sales and 
specials, sometimes price changes are missed.
It is easy to see what a big job it is to make the changes on the shelf and in the software for check out. 
Staffing shortages only add to the challenge, but it doesn’t remove a store’s responsibility to sell items for the 
advertised price.
Price scanner errors can add up for consumers so that’s why inspections are important and why 
consumers should pay attention, too. Price scanner error complaints can also be made by calling the Standards 
Division at 984-236-4750.
I am proud of the work of our Standards Division staff because they are helping to safeguard our 
wallets, something I think everyone will appreciate. 
There is a lot of information in this month’s newspaper and I hope you will take the time to see what is 
going on across the state. You will find information on stores that have paid fines for price scanning errors on 
pages 4 and 5 and we have included an article on page 3 about the benefits of prescribed burns in managing 
wildfire risks. I think you will find it interesting as it provides some insights into the Grindstone Fire on Pilot 
Mountain in November last year. 
If you are poultry farmer or have backyard birds, be sure to look at the information on page 2 
announcing the suspension of poultry shows and sales. This includes all exhibitions, farm tours, shows, sales, 
flea markets, auction markets, swaps and meets pertaining to poultry and feathered fowl in North Carolina.
It is important that we all do our part to limit the spread of high path avian influenza that has been found 
in the state.
And finally, be sure to check out the information on the Got to Be NC Festival that runs May 20-22 at 
the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh. Better yet, put the date on your calendar and come see us!

Fighting fire with fire: why we need to burn the land | In the Field (ncagr.gov)

23 Central NC stores pay fines for price scanning errors | NC Agriculture

Eight Eastern NC stores pay fines for price scanning errors | NC Agriculture

11 Western NC stores pay fines for price scanning errors | NC Agriculture

EAST GREENSBORO, NC - Millard and Connie Locklear, a Robeson County couple who grow 
fruits, vegetables, and culinary and medicinal herbs, were honored as North Carolina’s 2022 
Small Farmers of the Year, a recognition awarded by Cooperative Extension at North Carolina 
Agriculturan and Technical State University as part of its annual Small Farms Week.
Since 2015, the Locklears have grown organic collards, winter and spring root vegetables, and 
herbs on their 30-acre farm. They also sell poultry products, homemade jellies and jams, pickles, 
chow-chow and other delicacies for the Southern palate. Their work stresses health, safety and 
environmental stewardship, and they have worked closely with N.C. A&T Cooperative 
Extension and other agricultural agencies to develop a food safety plan and support on-farm 
research and training programs for students.
“Mr. and Mrs. Locklear have both been an integral part of Robeson County Cooperative 
Extension for the past 15 years,” said Nelson Brownlee, Extension agriculture and natural 
resources agent in the county. “Their goal has been to add new, innovative practices that improve 
profitability, protect farm stability, diminish risk, and strengthen their farm's overall 
sustainability.”
Small Farms Week, N.C. A&T’s annual tribute to small-scale agriculture statewide, features 
educational programs, panel discussions and farm tours, this year held in hybrid format. The 
weeklong annual celebration was launched by Extension at A&T 36 years ago to connect with 
small-scale farmers—including minority farmers and those in limited-resource communities—
and ensure they receive the latest research-based information on farming techniques, new tools 
and technologies. It also gives the public a chance to meet their agricultural neighbors and learn 
about farm operations and food production.
The Locklears worked with N.C. A&T to adopt high tunnel production to lengthen their growing 
season and control pests. As a result, they have increased their profits by 50%, Brownlee said.
The couple has also become certified in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Harmonized Good 
Agriculture Practices (GAPs), which allows them to sell to wholesale markets. They have 
converted land that was damaged from overuse of pesticides into a chemical-free organic farm 
using integrated pest management techniques.
The Locklears share their knowledge and passion for farming with their community in a variety 
of ways, including working with the University of North Carolina at Pembroke to offer research 
opportunities and hands-on experiences for students in the university’s sustainable agriculture 
program. They have also partnered with the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina to help establish a 
farmer cooperative and a young farmers program.
“To me, farming skills are life skills,” said Millard Locklear. “It is vital that we teach kids about 
farming so we can sustain small farming as a viable profession, and let them know where their 
food actually comes from, how to grow it, prepare it and get more of it.”
The Small Farmer of the Year award was presented at the Small Farmer Appreciation Luncheon, 
one of the highlights of Small Farms Week. The Locklears received a plaque, monogrammed 
jackets and $2,000.
“Small Farms Week brings us closer to our purpose as a land-grant institution and to our mission 
of educating farmers across the state with our knowledge,” said Kenneth Sigmon, PhD, vice 
chancellor at N.C. A&T. Sigmon was among the university and agriculture sector VIPs to attend 
the appreciation luncheon. Others included Steve Troxler, North Carolina commissioner of 
agriculture; Mohamed Ahmedna, PhD, dean of the College of Agriculture and Environmental 
Sciences; Shawn Harding, president of the North Carolina Farm Bureau; Rich Bonanno, PhD, 
Extension director at N.C. State University; and Barbara Board, interim administrator of 
Extension at A&T.
The event also included a keynote address from P.J. Haynie III, a fifth-generation Black farmer 
and chair of the National Black Growers Council.
“We have to do our part to grow the next generation in agriculture,” said Haynie. “Show your 
children the science, the engineering, all the aspects that go into agriculture. It is so important 
that all farmers have a seat at the table—small, large, organic, black, white—to fulfill our charge 
of feeding nearly eight billion people around the globe.”
Small Farms Week educational programs will be posted on Facebook as videos. Visit the 
Extension at A&T Facebook page (CooperativeExtensionatAandT) to enjoy sessions on plant 
and animal production, the impacts of climate change and COVID-19 on small farmers, hemp 
production and more

Helping small farms create a big impact | In the Field (ncagr.gov)

May
Use tissue testing to optimize yield of pecan trees.
Sufficient nutrient uptake is critical for nut development. Tissue testing after bloom and during early fruiting helps detect hidden hunger and can help in the adjustment of a fertilizer program.

Use of correct sampling procedure is critical. Collect only the middle pair of leaflets from a compound leaf on the terminal shoot of the current season’s growth. Each sample should consist of a minimum of 30–45 leaflets. Try to choose undamaged leaflets growing in full sun. Do not collect samples after recent pesticide or nutrient spray applications.

Sidestep the high cost of fertilizer by using animal waste as a plant nutrient source.
Farm-generated wastes are a widely available and inexpensive alternative to commercial fertilizers. Animal wastes provide essential plant nutrients and also improve soil physical properties, such as water infiltration, aeration and nutrient-holding capacity. Before applying waste material as fertilizer, send a sample to the NCDA&CS Plant/Waste/Solution/Media Section. This laboratory tests for levels of plant nutrients and, when necessary, can measure pH, lime value and soluble salts. Based on analytical results, the waste report provides estimated rates of nutrient availability for the first growing season. With this information, you can figure out how much waste it will take to meet the specific nutritional needs of a crop. Supplemental applications of commercial fertilizer may be necessary, depending on rate of nutrient availability, cropping system, environmental guidelines and other factors.

Use tissue test results to improve crop production.
For high-value crops, in particular, plant tissue analysis is a valuable tool for optimizing monetary inputs and yield. It is a way to monitor the effectiveness of an ongoing fertilization program. It is a way to identify existing or potential nutrient problems. It can also be a way to gauge plant readiness for harvest.

The part of the plant to be sampled and the time of sampling vary by crop.Samples can be dropped off at the NCDA&CS Plant/Waste/Solution/Media lab in Raleigh, mailed through the U.S. Postal Service, or shipped via UPS or Fed Ex. Basic tissue testing costs $5 per sample, and results are typically posted on the NCDA&CS Agronomic Division website  two business days after samples arrive at the lab. Special tests to measure chloride, molybdenum or petiole nitrates cost an extra $2 per test per sample.

Spring and summer are the best times to take soil samples from established lawns and gardens.
It is always a good idea to take soil samples several weeks before planting a garden or renovating a lawn; then if lime is needed, you have time to apply it properly and let it begin to work before planting. For established plantings, spring and summer are good times to submit samples because there is no peak-season fee. Reports are usually posted online within 10 days.

The soil lab urges clients to enter and submit soil sample information online via the PALS website instead of filling out a paper sample information form. The online option sends sample information to the lab electronically and helps prevent data entry errors and duplications. A printed copy of the electronic Soil Sample Information form must be submitted with the samples. Links on the Agronomic Division homepage — — provide detailed instructions.

Samples must be submitted in NCDA&CS soil boxes, which are available from all county Cooperative Extension offices and from the Agronomic Division office in Raleigh. Reports are posted online in PALS.

Collect petiole samples from vinifera vineyards during full bloom.
To monitor the nutrient status of vinifera grapes, collect a tissue sample during full bloom. The sample should consist of at least 50 petioles collected from leaves opposite the first or second bloom cluster from the bottom of the shoot. Collect petioles randomly from throughout the entire vineyard. Do not collect more than two petioles per vine. Place the sample in a paper bag or envelope. The plant tissue report—available in a few days—will let you know if your fertilization program is meeting your crop's needs.

If you want to use tissue analysis to diagnose a suspected nutrient problem, collect a petiole sample as soon as you see symptoms. Don't delay—time is critical when correcting nutrient problems. To troubleshoot a problem, you should collect four different samples: 1) a petiole sample from symptomatic leaves, 2) a similar petiole sample from healthy plants, 3) a soil sample from the problem area and a soil sample from the healthy area. Send all samples along with a completed Plant Sample Information form and Diagnostic Soil Sample Information form to NCDA&CS Plant/Waste/Solution/Media Section. There is a $5.00 processing fee for each grape petiole sample.

Horse events
Southeastern Ag Center, Lumberton 910-618-5699
May 2 Horse & Tack Sale. Contact Brad Stephens, 828-390-0878.
May 7 BBHA Open Show. Contact Jerry King, 910-237-4525.
Sen. Bob Martin Agricultural Center, Williamston, 252-792-5111
May 7 & 8 NCHJA “C” Horse Show. Contact Emily Bates, 252-378-4474.
May 13-15 Four Beats for Pleasure Gaited Horse Show. Contact Shannon Gibbs, 919-255-0429.
May 20-22 All Youth Barrel Bash. Contact Carson Kelly, 919-464-4352.
May 27-29 SERHA Main Event & Futurity. Contact Daniel Blackburn, 919-669-9486.
June 4 & 5 NCHJA “C” Horse Show. Contact Bethanna Perry, 252-675-3017.
June 18 & 19 June’s Just Horsin’ Round Open Horse Show. Contact Beth Tew.
WNC Ag Center, Fletcher 828-687-1414
May 6 & 7 Asheville Spring Warm-Up. Contact Liz Holmes, 919-672-3741.
May 11-14 Asheville Saddlebred Classic Show. Contact Liz Holmes, 919-672-3741.
June 16-19 Piedmont Paso Fino Horse Show. Contact Ashley Aldred, 704-778-6717.
June 20-22 West District 4H 3-Day Horsemanship Clinic. Contact Shannon Coleman, 828-837-
2210, ext. 4.
Gov. James B. Hunt Jr. Horse Complex, State Fairgrounds, Raleigh,
May 7 & 8 TWHA May Days Show. Contact Kim Moser, 919-219-0256.
May 14 & 15 Raleigh Spring Dressage. Contact Janine Malone, 919-269-7307.
May 21 & 22 Wake County 4-H Youth Open Horse Show. Contact Heather Schaffer, 919-250-
1093.
May 25-28 Southern States Regional Morgan Horse Show. Contact Liz Holmes, 919-672-3741.
June 4 & 5 Capital Dressage Classic. Contact Teresa Uddo, 352-636-2669.
June 9-12 Tar Heel Summer Classic Show. Contact Randy Ratliff, 336-339-8773.
June 16-18 Capital City Classic. Contact Liz Holmes, 919-672-3741.
June 25 & 26 NCAHA Open Summer Extravaganza. Contact Myra Daniel, 919-614-7477.
July 7-11 State 4-H Horse Show. Contact Lori Stroud, 919-515-5788.
July 23-25 NCHJA “C” Indoors. Contact Joan Petty, 919-219-0256.
July 24 & 25 TWHA July Show. Contact Kim Moser, 919-219-0256.
July 31-
Aug.1 Raleigh Summer Dressage I & II. Contact Janine Malone, 919-269-7307

Bucolic briefs
The Jewel of the Blue Ridge Vineyard & Greenhouse in Marshall will offer Mountain Grape School 
with the following in-person classes/workshops: Planting, Propagation Tips and Trellis Design – May 
7; Training and Mid-Season Canopy Management – May 21; Harvesting Workshop – Sept. 10; 
Muscadine Home Winemaking – Oct. 1; and Entertaining With Wine – Oct. 15.
Class times are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays All classes are $40 per person and includes a catered 
lunch. Register online at www.JeweloftheBlueRidge.com. Registration cutoff is 48 hours prior to the 
class/workshop. Call Chuck Blethen, Jewel of the Blue Ridge Vineyard & Greenhouse Walapini, at 
828-606-3130.
The Grantham and Brogden N.C. Granges are celebrating their 85th Anniversary by hosting a free 
event May 7 at the Wayne County Fairgrounds in Dudley. As part of the celebration, the organizations 
are teaming up with the Eastern NC Vintage Farm Equipment Club for its 21st annual show. Activities 
include food and drink vendors; antique tractor/equipment show; wagon rides; toy tractor rides; 
exhibits on tobacco heritage, gardening, beekeeping, home canning, handmade quilting, antique corn 
shelling, the N.C. Caisson Unit, and the Ronald McDonald House; displays by the national and local 
Granges; a pie baking competition and cookie baking competitions for under age 12; gospel music and 
dance entertainment; and a corn hole competition. For more information or questions, contact Sally 
Waddell at 252-514-5091.
The Organic Growers School will host the second summer class in its Gardening Series titled Compost 
at Home with Patryk Battle May 10 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Smith Mill Works Greenhouse, 80 Cowan 
Cove Road, Asheville. In this workshop, Battle of Living Web Farms, will walk attendees through a 
comprehensive overview of the requirements, benefits and downsides of various composting methods. 
Then, he will take a deeper dive into thermophilic and worm composting systems. Participants will 
have an opportunity to construct a thermophilic pile and set up a worm box during class, as well as 
evaluate the quality of the finished compost product.
The Leonard-Mobley Small Farms Fund is accepting applications from small North Carolina farmers, 
including women in agriculture, in Franklin, Nash, Chatham, Person, Granville, Halifax, Durham, 
Wake, Wilson, Vance and Warren counties, to apply for a $5,000 grant to assist with projects such as 
development or expansion of new sources of agricultural income on their farm. Grant applications are 
due by 5 p.m. June 1. The grant will be awarded Sept. 11 at the 7th Annual “Dinner in the Meadow” 
farm-to-fork feast held at Meadow Lane Farm near Louisburg. The dinner showcases local foods 
prepared by 12 North Carolina chefs. For more information or questions, contact Dr. Francesco Tiezzi 
or Tammy Manning at lmsmallfarmfund@gmail.com. More information on the grant and the dinner 
can be found online at www.DinnerintheMeadow.org. Proceeds from the dinner and silent auction will 
benefit the fund, which was set up in memory of two farm family members. Tickets for the dinner can 
be purchased at the website.
Franklin County will host the popular and free 5-County Regional BEEF Tour June 21 from 8 a.m. to 2 
p.m. Farms visited will be Springfield Angus, one of the Southeast's premier Black Angus breeders, 
Perry Cattle Farm with purebred Simmental and commercial cattle), and First Fruits Farm to highlight 
cool and warm season forage test plot. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. in the parking lot of the N.C.
Cooperative Extension, Franklin County Center. Program topics include: Tips for Direct Marketing 
Your Beef, Fire Ant Update and Control, Fly Control in the Herd, NRCS's Rainfall Forage Simulator 
Demonstration, and review of a Forage Test Plot. A sponsored ribeye steak sandwich will be served at 
the last farm stop. The tour concludes with door prizes. Participants will carpool to the 
sites. Registration required. Go to the Eventbrite link to register :

NCDA&CS extends strong recommendation to poultry owners to continue strict biosecurity measures due to threat of HPAI | NC Agriculture

Western NC Agricultural Crop Loss Program expanded to include damages and losses incurred from freeze and frost in April 2021 | NC Agriculture

Mark your calendar for May 20-22 for the return of the Got to Be NC Festival. This free family-friendly 
event features a large collection of tractors on display plus a daily tractor parade, carnival rides and 
games, agricultural exhibits, antique farm equipment, fair food and music. 
The Food Lion Local Goodness Marketplace will showcase some of North Carolina’s tastiest 
products. Visitors can sample and shop the marketplace for their favorites. Marketplace admission is $3. 
On Saturday, May 21, the Carolina Pig Jig will feature 20 chapters of Mason in a BBQ competition to 
benefit the Masonic Homes for Children at Oxford. Food will be served to the public after judging 
Saturday morning beginning at 11 a.m. Tickets for all-you-can-eat BBQ is $15 for adults 11 and 
older, $5 for kids 7 to 10, and free for kids 6 and under. 
Festival Gate Hours are Friday, noon to 10 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 
8 p.m. Building and exhibit hours are Friday noon to 8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday, 10
a.m. to 6 p.m. Carnival hours are Friday noon to 10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday 10 
a.m. to 8 p.m. Carnival hours may extend one hour depending on attendance.

Spring is officially here, and I am more than glad to welcome it’s return. It is 
always a busy time on the farm. 
Crops are going in the ground, plus you will begin to find fresh local strawberries 
and early season crops at farmers markets and grocery stores and agritourism activities 
kicking off for the year.
As this paper is coming together, we are celebrating National Ag Week–
something I’d be happy to celebrate every week. This marks the 49th year of this effort to 
draw attention to the many contributions of agriculture and agribusiness.
If there is one thing I hope the pandemic has taught us, it’s the importance of local 
farms and a local food supply. 
Shopping with local farms and food businesses is the best way to ensure they will 
be here when we need them. Every person who reads this newspaper is a consumer and I 
encourage you to support North Carolina farmers and agribusinesses by shopping with 
them. Look for products with the Got to Be NC logo on them and make it a point to try 
something local.
It is important that we all do our part to support local producers because less than 
2 percent of the world population feeds us. We need farmers to be successful. We need to 
show young people that there is a future in agriculture, and we need to ensure as a state 
and as a country that we can feed ourselves.
If everyone reading this article purchased one local food product, it would make a 
big difference at the farm level.
We are blessed in our state that just about any crop can be produced here – citrus 
being an exception. It is why agriculture and agribusiness is our leading industry at $95.9 
billion and the reason we are the fourth most agriculturally diverse state.
We also lead the nation in the production of many agricultural commodities.
Here’s a brief run down: 
o No. 1 in flue-cured tobacco, producing 78.7 percent of the total U.S. crop
o No. 1 in sweet potatoes, growing 61 percent of the total U.S. crop
o No. 1 in poultry and egg cash receipts at over $4.7 billion
o No. 2 in pig crop at 19.6 million head
o No. 2 in turkeys at 31 million head
o No. 3 in hogs and pigs at 9.5 million
o No. 4 in cucumbers at $25.4 million in production
o No. 4 in broilers at 916 million head
o No. 5 in peanuts at 443 million pounds or $92.9 million
o No. 5 in upland cotton in over 1 million bales produced
o No. 5 in bell peppers at 552,000 cwt.
I can tell you that farmers across our state are working hard every day to be sure we have 
food products to enjoy. I hope you will read the story on Page 8 about James Shackleford, a 
Snow Hill farmer who continues to raise food at 79 years old. He is an example of the many 
small farms we have in the state. Did you know that nearly 68 percent of farms in North Carolina 
are 100 acres or less?
And finally, agritourism activities and on-farm events continue to increase in popularity 
and availability. You will find Spring events planned at farms across the state listed on pages 3, 4 
and 5. Visiting an agritourism farm is another way to support your local farmers. 
I said Spring is a busy time on the farm and it is. As we celebrate agriculture and small 
farmers, I hope we all remember the important connection between the farm and the table and 
are grateful for all that farmers do to feed us.

Upcoming Farmers Markets Events
Piedmont Triad Farmers Market, Colfax
 The Arc Festival will be held May 14 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sponsored by The Arc of 
High Point, the event features live music, a kids zone, a beer garden with local 
microbrews and contests. For more info, Contact stephaniearchp@gmail.com or call 336-
883-0650.
 The Greensboro Police Department and the Triad Chevy Club will host the COPS & 
RODDERS Cruise In and Car Show May 21 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The day includes food 
trucks, music and raffle prizes with proceeds from a $10 donation benefitting the Special 
Olympics.
 The Greensboro Gem & Mineral Club hosts a Gem & Mineral Show June 4 from 9 a.m. 
to 5 p.m. Contact Gary Parker at 336-402-5252 or redrutile@bellsouth.net for more 
information. 
WNC Farmers Market, Asheville
 The Spring Festival and Growing in the Mountains Plant Show will be held April 22-24
featuring local growers, music and food trucks. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 22 & 23 
and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 24

N.C. Tomato Growers Association offering scholarship | NC Agriculture

NCDA&CS Employee of the Year shines while tackling challenges of work & life | In the Field (ncagr.gov)

Local farms open for spring events | NC Agriculture

Psyllids may help keep dangerous knotweed in check | In the Field (ncagr.gov)

N.C. Pesticide Board announces recent case settlements | NC Agriculture

April
Check your crop's sulfur needs.

Before planting, study your soil report carefully. Throughout North Carolina, soil levels of sulfur can be critically low. This plant nutrient moves easily out of the root zone in sandy coastal plain soils or sandy bottom lands in the western part of the state. In the piedmont, heavy clay soils may restrict root growth and limit access to sulfur reserves. Your NCDA&CS soil report indicates whether application of additional sulfur is necessary. If heavy rains occur early in the season, it is advisable to check sulfur levels again.

Use plant tissue and solution analyses to manage fertility of greenhouse tomatoes.
Tomatoes and other greenhouse crops benefit from intensive management. Have source water samples tested before nutrient solutions are mixed so you can identify and correct any potential problems. After mixing nutrient solutions, submit samples to make sure injectors are working properly and target concentrations are being achieved. Finally, collect plant tissue samples weekly to monitor the crop's nutrient status and adjust fertilizer rates accordingly.

Fertilize Christmas trees.
Each spring, apply 1/2 ounce of nitrogen uniformly over a 5×5-ft area around each tree. If trees were transplanted the previous fall and the potassium recommendation was 100 lb/acre or more, apply the remainder of the recommended potassium.

For effective bermudagrass sprayfield maintenance, remove winter annuals.
Harvest on time, even if weather is less than ideal. Remove the overseed at the "boot" stage of growth-prior to emergence of seed heads from the sheath. For rye, this is usually early April but varies with species and weather. In some years, follow-up harvests of the winter annual may be needed.

Early April is seldom a good time to dry hay in the field, so plan to remove the winter annual as chopped or baled silage. Timely harvest of the winter annual permits bermuda to emerge from dormancy and develop leaf area before summer annual grasses and weeds germinate. If annual ryegrass was sown, plan on multiple harvests. A herbicide may be warranted for heavy regrowth.

Submit soil samples for lawns and gardens (and some crops) now.
Now is a good time for horticulturists and homeowners to prepare for their spring gardening and landscape projects by taking soil samples. Warm-season grasses and many landscape plants will benefit from lime and fertilizer applied in the coming months. If you haven't already done so, there is still time to take samples from fields where you intend to plant late spring crops like burley tobacco, cotton, and bermudagrass pastures. In April, the lab can normally process samples within two weeks. When you receive your report, pay particular attention to lime recommendations and make application as soon as possible for maximum effectiveness.

Horse events
Southeastern Ag Center, Lumberton 910-618-5699
April 4 Horse & Tack Sale. Contact Brad Stephens, 828-390-0878.
April 29-
May 1 Cowboy Mounted Shooting. Contact Pamela Lohrey, 540-570-8785.
May 2 Horse & Tack Sale. Contact Brad Stephens, 828-390-0878.
May 7 BBHA Open Show. Contact Jerry King, 910-237-4525.
Sen. Bob Martin Agricultural Center, Williamston, 252-792-5111
April 9 & 10 NCHJA “C” Horse Show. Contact Emily Bates, 252-378-4474.
April 15-17 ECMHC Spring Fling Miniature Horse Show. Contact Katie Pulley, 757-334-6016.
April 23 & 24 April’s Just Horsin’ Round. Contact Beth Tew, www.justhorsinround.com. 
April 30-
May 1 N.C. East Coast Regional 4-H Youth Horse Show. Contact Northeast 4-H Horse Council, 
252-793-2163.
May 7 & 8 NCHJA “C” Horse Show. Contact Emily Bates, 252-378-4474.
May 13-15 Four Beats for Pleasure Gaited Horse Show. Contact Shannon Gibbs, 919-255-0429.
May 20-22 All Youth Barrel Bash. Contact Carson Kelly, 919-464-4352.
May 27-29 SERHA Main Event & Futurity. Contact Daniel Blackburn, 919-669-9486.
June 4 & 5 NCHJA “C” Horse Show. Contact Bethanna Perry, 252-675-3017.
June 18 & 19 June’s Just Horsin’ Round Open Horse Show. Contact Beth Tew.
WNC Ag Center, Fletcher 828-687-1414
April 22-24 Good Times Barrel Racing: 2nd Annual Spring Classic. Contact Stacey Warner, 864-
992-8664.
April 30 &
May 1 West District 4-H Horse Show. Contact WNC Ag Center, 828-687-1414.
May 6 & 7 Asheville Spring Warm-Up. Contact Liz Holmes, 919-672-3741.
May 11-14 Asheville Saddlebred Classic Show. Contact Liz Holmes, 919-672-3741.
June 16-19 Piedmont Paso Fino Horse Show. Contact Ashley Aldred, 704-778-6717.
June 20-22 West District 4H 3-Day Horsemanship Clinic. Contact Shannon Coleman, 828-837-
2210, ext. 4.
Gov. James B. Hunt Jr. Horse Complex, State Fairgrounds, Raleigh,
April 1-3 NCHJA “C” Indoors. Contact Joan Petty, 919-669-9877.
April 8-10 Region 12 & 15 Arabian Show. Contact Myra Daniel, 919-614-7477.
April 14-16 Raleigh Invitational Show. Contac Joyce Wilson, 919-365-5149.
April 22-24 Spring Holiday Classic. Contact Richard Isley, 336-908-3302.
April 23-25 NCHJA “C” Outdoors. Contact Joan Petty, 919-699-9877.
April 29 & 30 Revenge Roughstock Rodeo. Contact Zach Towery, 540-581-4993.
April 30-May 2 NCQHA Tarheel Spring Classic. Contact Randy Ratliff, 336-339-8773.
May 7 & 8 TWHA May Days Show. Contact Kim Moser, 919-219-0256.
May 14 & 15 Raleigh Spring Dressage. Contact Janine Malone, 919-269-7307.
May 21 & 22 Wake County 4-H Youth Open Horse Show. Contact Heather Schaffer, 919-250-
1093.
May 25-28 Southern States Regional Morgan Horse Show. Contact Liz Holmes, 919-672-3741.
June 4 & 5 Capital Dressage Classic. Contact Teresa Uddo, 352-636-2669.
June 9-12 Tar Heel Summer Classic Show. Contact Randy Ratliff, 336-339-8773.

Bucolic briefs
The N.C. Transportation Museum in Spencer is gearing up for a huge day of tractors, trains and fun
April 2 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Exhibits include modern tractors, antique farm equipment, and farm life 
demonstrations. Kid’s activities, music and hayrides will also be featured. A parade of tractors ends the 
day at 3 p.m. Go to nctransportationmuseum.org, or call 704-636-2889 to enter your tractor or farm 
equipment or to purchase tickets.
The following free Produce Safety Field Days will be held at research stations in April from 10 a.m. to 
3 p.m.: April 6 at the Horticultural Crops Research Station in Clinton. 
The Grantham and Brogden N.C. Granges are celebrating their 85th Anniversary by hosting a free 
event May 7 at the Wayne County Fairgrounds in Dudley. As part of the celebration, the organizations 
are teaming up with the Eastern NC Vintage Farm Equipment Club for its 21st annual show. Activities 
include food and drink vendors; antique tractor/equipment show; wagon rides; toy tractor rides; 
exhibits on tobacco heritage, gardening, beekeeping, home canning, handmade quilting, antique corn 
shelling, the N.C. Caisson Unit, and the Ronald McDonald House; displays by the national and local 
Granges; a pie baking competition and cookie baking competitions for under age 12; gospel music and 
dance entertainment; and a corn hole competition.For more information or questions, contact Sally 
Waddell at 252-514-5091.
The Carolina and Dove Association will host its inaugural Spring Pigeon Lawn Show May 28 at Dallas 
Park, 1303 Dallas/Cherryville Hwy., Dallas. For more information contact Bogdan Pauasyuk, 425-535-
7996.
As a way to help farmers and agricultural workers stay safe at work, the N.C. Department of Labor 
offers safety videos on a variety of topics through its YouTube channel. Video topics include: 
preventing green tobacco sickness, hazard communication, tobacco harvester safety, heat stress, 
migrant housing requirements, forklift safety, and information about the NCDOL’s Gold Star Growers 
program. The videos are in English and Spanish to increase understanding of safety hazards and 
preventing accidents. To learn more about the NCDOL and the Agricultural Safety and Health Bureau, 
go to www.nclabor.com or call 1-800-NC-LABOR (800-625-2267). NCDOL is also on Facebook and 
Twitter (@NCDOL).
***
Beekeepers with bees for rent and growers interested in bee pollination services can post their 
information on the BeeLinked website The site is hosted by the N.C. 
Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the N.C. State University Apiculture Program. 
Anyone interested in listing their information can do so by filling out an online Submit Your Ad form 
on the BeeLinked page or by contacting NCDA&CS at 919-233-8214 or by email at 
NCHoneybee@ncagr.gov or call NCSU at 919-515-1660. The NCDA&CS Plant Industry Division 
regulates the movement of agricultural or related items capable of spreading harmful insects, diseases, 
and other pests. Beekeepers participating in this program will be required to comply with all honey and 
bee industry regulations.
***
The N.C. Ag Finance Authority provides credit to agriculture in areas where financing is not available 
at reasonable rates and terms. The agency originates, services and finances farm loans, rural business 
loans, disaster loans and cotton gin loans. It also offers tax-exempt ag development bonds for 
agribusiness processing, ag-related manufacturing or ag waste disposal. For more about Ag Finance 
Authority programs or to request a loan application, call 919-790-3949 or email at 
RequestLoanInfo@ncagr.gov. 
***

High Path Avian Influenza now confirmed in wild birds at three sites in North Carolina | NC Agriculture

Application period for Phase II of the Swine and Dairy COVID Economic Assistance Program opens Feb. 23 | NC Agriculture

N.C. cotton growers to vote on assessment March 31 | NC Agriculture

Commissioner’s column 
As you look through the pages of this paper, I hope you will pay especially close attention to several assistance programs we are overseeing here in the department. 
We have information on Phase II of the Swine and Dairy program on page 1, there is Tropical Storm Fred relief for 11 Western NC counties included on page 2 and the Streamflow Rehabilitation Assistance Program on page 3. Together these three programs total $118 million in assistance. 
If you qualify or think you qualify for any of these programs, I encourage you to apply as quickly as possible. If you are missing information, we will have time to review your application and request the additional information. 
With federal COVID monies and strong legislative support in the budget, we have a lot on our plate at the department – in fact we are overseeing close to a half a billion dollars between departmental funding ($225 million) and grants and disaster assistance programs ($227.6 million). 
We are working hard to get money out to farmers and agribusinesses as quickly as possible. In addition to the projects noted above, we also have several programs ongoing including the following two: 
o Various Block Grants to support farmers impacted by storms in 2018 and 2019 - $79.6 million 
o Improving Meat Production, Efficiency and Capacity, or IMPEC, grants - $17 million. These grants have helped 69 different companies across the state. We are already seeing a positive impact from these grants in improving our facilities and expanding production capacity. 
The Tropical Storm Fred Relief program for Western NC opened February 11 and we are already seeing tremendous interest from farmers and producers in the covered counties. If you think you are eligible, I encourage you to get your application in before the April 15 deadline. 
Collectively, these efforts will keep us on our toes. There is lots of information going out and online about these programs. Be sure to check out our website at www.ncagr.gov for the latest information, deadlines and links to these programs, and, of course, keep reading your Ag Review newspaper. 
Looking ahead, please be sure to mark your calendars for May 20-22 for the Got to Be NC Festival at the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh. This will mark the return of this popular event after a two-year break due to COVID. 
We are looking forward to welcoming people back to the festival, our Got to Be NC members are looking forward to showcasing their products at the Homegrown Marketplace during the event and we are ready to celebrate North Carolina agriculture and agribusinesses in a big way. I hope you will join us for this fun, family event.

Assistance available for farmers who suffered losses due to Tropical Storm Fred | NC Agriculture

2022 N.C. boll weevil assessment remains at 75 cents per acre | NC Agriculture

Got to Be NC Festival seeks food and commercial vendors, Got to Be NC members and antique tractors | NC Agriculture

Commissioner Troxler promotes Davis and Lanier to NCDA&CS leadership positions | NC Agriculture

$38 million Streamflow Rehabilitation Assistance Program is a proactive effort to reduce flooding. | In the Field (ncagr.gov)

North Carolina's Forest Action Plan ready for implementation | NC Agriculture

Twenty-two stores pay fines for price scanning errors | NC Agriculture

Nine appointed to inaugural N.C. Spiritous Liquor Advisory Council | NC Agriculture

UMO’s Sandy Maddox Earns NC’s Top Ag Award 
MOUNT OLIVE – Dr. Sandy Maddox, Dean for the School of Agriculture and Biological Sciences, has received one of the highest awards given to a North Carolina professional in the agriculture industry. On Friday, February 4, Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler presented Maddox with the 2022 Excellence in Agriculture Award during the 17th Annual Tobacco Farm Life Museum Breakfast held on the NC State Fairgrounds. 
Commissioner Troxler noted that Maddox has spent 44 years as a public servant supporting agriculture, agricultural research, and education providing invaluable experience that she willingly shares with others daily. 
“It’s my honor to recognize someone who is very special to all of us, especially me,” said Troxler. “She is a wonderful person and has a great attitude. Her passion for agriculture and education is evident when you see her working with students and inviting them to attend events, just as she has done today.” 
Upon receiving the award, Maddox said, “I am very honored to have been selected to receive the Tobacco Farm Life Museum Excellence in Agriculture Award. To join the list of previous recipients is very humbling. I have been blessed to have had a career in the agriculture industry. I owe my successes to so many of my colleagues and the leaders with whom I have had the pleasure to work. To now have the opportunity to work with students at the University of Mount Olive and have the chance to guide them into careers in the field of agriculture, is more rewarding than I could have ever imagined.” 
Maddox’s extensive career in agriculture spans over four decades. As the Founding Dean for the School of Agriculture and Biological Sciences at the University of Mount Olive, Maddox has served as Assistant Professor of Agricultural Education, Director of the Lois G. Britt Agribusiness Center, Chair for the Division of Agriculture, and currently as Dean for the School of Agriculture and Biological Sciences. Prior to arriving at UMO, Maddox was employed by both NC State University and the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer 
Services. She worked in the Soil Science Department at NC State in research; was a Horticultural Agent and County Extension Director for Cooperative Extension in Pender County; served as the Superintendent of the Horticultural Crops Research Station in Sampson County; and lastly served as the Director of the Division of Research Stations with NCDA; retiring from state service in 2007. 
Maddox has been a member of the Wayne County Cooperative Extension Advisory Board, Wayne Extension Community Association Advisory Board, Tobacco Farm Life Museum Board of Directors, participated in the Karl Best Leadership program, Leadership Wayne, and much more. 
“Sandy’s work ethic is second to none and her visionary leadership has allowed students to take part in building the agricultural program at UMO into what exists today,” said UMO President Dr. H. Edward Croom, who was in attendance at the award presentation. “She has a passion and drive to make a positive difference in the lives of so many. I am pleased to see her receive this worthy honor and much deserved recognition.” 
The University of Mount Olive is a private institution rooted in the liberal arts tradition with defining Christian values. The University is sponsored by the Convention of Original Free Will Baptists. For more information, visit www.umo.edu.

March

• Test for nematodes before planting vegetables.

  Nematodes pose a major threat to nearly all vegetable crops in all soils. Unless you intend to apply a preplant fumigant, it is a good idea to collect soil samples for nematode assay before seedlings are planted and mulched. Any steps to prevent nematode problems must be taken long before the crop is established. For information on collecting and submitting samples for nematode assay,

• Now is the time to collect tissue samples from wheat.

  Depending on where you live, you may need to sample now (eastern counties) or wait until late March (western counties). The best time to take tissue samples is when the wheat is at Zadoks Growth Stage 30 or Feekes Stage 4–5. At these growth stages, stems are upright and tillering has stopped. To collect a sample, break wheat plants off about 1/2 inch above the ground. Each sample should consist of about two handfuls of wheat—a composite gathered from 10 to 20 areas throughout the field.

   

  ---

• When growing peanuts, use agronomic tests to monitor zinc levels in the soil.

  Growers who value the prime farmland where peanuts are produced should consider using alternate sites for waste application. Peanuts are very sensitive to certain metals found in waste, particularly zinc. Soils with NCDA&CS zinc index (Zn-I) values as low as 300 can be toxic to peanuts, even though other crops can tolerate levels up to Zn-I=2000.

  In some areas, soil test data for peanut land already appear to show increases in zinc levels, indicating that waste is being applied to these fields. An important aspect of managing sites where waste is applied is to maintain a pH of 6.0–6.5. Low soil pH increases the availability and toxicity of metals.

  ---

• Apply lime now if recommended by your soil report.

  By now, you should have already submitted soil samples and received your report. If lime is recommended, go ahead and apply it as soon as possible. For lawns, you may want to aerate the ground before application to maximize the ability of the lime to move into the soil profile. Liming soils to the target pH of the intended crop increases availability of plant nutrients already in the soil and supplies additional calcium and/or magnesium. Since liming can take up to 6 months to adjust pH, it is important to apply lime as far in advance of planting as possible.

Horse events 
Southeastern Ag Center, Lumberton 910-618-5699
March 4-6 Cowboy Mounted Shooting. Contact Pamela Lohrey, 540-570-8785. 
March 7 Horse & Tack Auction. Contact Brad Stephens, 828-390-0878. 
March 19 Da Bomb Barrel Racing. Contact Josh Smith, 910-639-6387. 
March 26 BBHA Open Show. Contact Jerry King, 910-237-4525. 
Sen. Bob Martin Agricultural Center, Williamston, 252-792-5111
March 4-6 Hopping Into Spring. Contact Travis Alford, 252-450-5438. 
March 11 & 12 N.C. Barrel Bonanza. Contact Fred Smith, 252-883-1641. 
March 18-20 SERHA March Into Spring. Contact Daniel Blackburn, 919-669-9486. 
March 26 & 27 March Magic Dressage. Contact Cassidy Oeltjen, 618-201-3290. 
March 31-April 4 Martinganza Quarter Horse Show & Futurity. Contact Susan Daniels, 919-
894-0600. 
April 9 & 10 NCHJA “C” Horse Show. Contact Emily Bates, 252-378-4474. 
April 15-17 ECMHC Spring Fling Miniature Horse Show. Contact Katie Pulley, 757-334-6016. 
April 23 & 24 April’s Just Horsin’ Round. Contact Beth Tew, www.justhorsinround.com. 
April 30- 
May 1 N.C. East Coast Regional 4-H Youth Horse Show. Contact Northeast 4-H Horse Council, 
252-793-2163. 
May 7 & 8 NCHJA “C” Horse Show. Contact Emily Bates, 252-378-4474. 
WNC Ag Center, Fletcher 828-687-1414 
March 4-6 NBHA Super Show. Contact organizers at 706-722-7223. 
April 22-24 Good Times Barrel Racing: 2nd Annual Spring Classic. Contact Stacey Warner, 864-
992-8664. 
April 30 & 
May 1 West District 4-H Horse Show. Contact WNC Ag Center, 828-687-1414. 
May 6 & 7 Asheville Spring Warm-Up. Contact Liz Holmes, 919-672-3741. 
May 11-14 Asheville Saddlebred Classic Show. Contact Liz Holmes, 919-672-3741. 
June 16-19 Piedmont Paso Fino Horse Show. Contact Ashley Aldred, 704-778-6717. 
Gov. James B. Hunt Jr. Horse Complex, State Fairgrounds, Raleigh,
March 5 & 6 Raleigh Winter Dressage. Contact Janine Malone, 919-269-7307. 
March 11-13 NCHJA “C” Indoors. Contact Joan Petty, 919-669-9877. 
March 17-20 Raleigh Indoors Spring Classic. Contact Joan Petty, 919-669-9877. 
March 23-26 Raleigh Spring Premier Benefit. Contact Joyce Wilson, 919-365-5149. 
April 2-4 NCHJA “C” Indoors. Contact Joan Petty, 919-669-9877. 
April 9-11 Region 12 & 15 Arabian Show. Contact Myra Daniel, 919-614-7477. 
April 15-17 Raleigh Invitational Show. Contac Joyce Wilson, 919-365-5149. 
April 23-25 Spring Holiday Classic. Contact Richard Isley, 336-908-3302. 
April 23-25 NCHJA “C” Outdoors. Contact Joan Petty, 919-699-9877. 
April 30-May 2 NCQHA Tarheel Spring Classic. Contact Randy Ratliff, 336-339-8773. 
May 8 & 9 TWHA May Days Show. Contact Kim Moser, 919-219-0256. 
May 22 & 23 Wake County 4-H Youth Open Horse Show. Contact Heather Schaffer, 919-250-
1093. 
May 26-29 Southern States Regional Morgan Horse Show. Contact Liz Holmes, 919-672-3741.

Bucolic briefs 
The Equestrian Exchange Tack Consignment Sale to buy and consign anything related to the 
equestrian sport will be held March 24-27 at the Holshouser Building, State Fairgrounds, Raleigh. Sale 
features saddles, tack, driving equipment, show clothing for all disciplines of riding, barn supplies, 
carts, horse trailers and other animal items. Bar code tagging on event website allows consignor to 
view sales from home. Tagging guidelines mandatory. Consignors drop off priced, tagged items March 
22 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and March 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sale dates are March 24-27. A special 
premier shopping night open to public for $10 cash only will be March 24 from 5 to 10 p.m. Open 
shopping with free admission is March 25 and 26 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and March 27 from 11 a.m. 
to 7 p.m. Some items discounted 1/2 off March 27. Unsold items to be picked up on March 29 from 3 
to 8 p.m. or March 30 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. or they are donated. Please make arrangements if you 
want unsold items returned. Items cannot be stored or transferred sale to sale. Refer to donation page to 
see how we help our equestrian programs in our community. Consignors earn 70%, donate unsold 
items to NC non-profit equestrian organizations if desire. Volunteers all ages needed, shop before 
consignors, consignors shop before public. Sign up on website. Payment accepted: cash, NC checks 
with 2 IDs approved, debit and credit cards with fee/per card transaction. N.C. government regulations 
for COVID followed for everyone’s safety. DROP and GO and PICK up and Go (no wait or scanning 
in items waived) consigning available, see website. Waivers to be signed at drop off. For more 
information go to www.EquestrianExchange.com or contact Lynn Beeson 336-362-6248 or Tanya 
Wright 540-977-1950. 
We’re gearing up for a HUGE day of Tractors, Trains & Fun! Join us to see modern tractors, antique 
farm equipment, farm life demonstrations, and much more! With kid’s activities, music, and hayrides 
this is an event the whole family can attend! This annual event is reserved for students, home school 
groups, and other pre-formed groups on Friday, April 1, receiving special admission rates. The general 
public is invited to enjoy the fun on Saturday, April 2, from 9am till 2pm, ending out the day with a 
Parade of Tractors at 3 p.m. And don’t forget the Train Rides! Along with our regular passenger train 
ride, hop on our Caboose Train pulled by the JEDDO COAL Steam Locomotive #85 on April 2nd. 
Visit our website, nctransportationmuseum.org, or call us at 704-636-2889 to enter your tractor or farm 
equipment or to purchase tickets. 
As a way to help farmers and agricultural workers stay safe at work, the N.C. Department of Labor 
offers safety videos on a variety of topics through its YouTube channel. Video topics include: 
preventing green tobacco sickness, hazard communication, tobacco harvester safety, heat stress, 
migrant housing requirements, forklift safety, and information about the NCDOL’s Gold Star Growers 
program. The videos are in English and Spanish to increase understanding of safety hazards and 
preventing accidents. To learn more about the NCDOL and the Agricultural Safety and Health Bureau, 
go to www.nclabor.com or call 1-800-NC-LABOR (800-625-2267). NCDOL is also on Facebook and 
Twitter (@NCDOL). 
*** 
Beekeepers with bees for rent and growers interested in bee pollination services can post their 
information on the BeeLinked website
Anyone interested in listing their information can do so by filling out an online Submit Your Ad form 
on the BeeLinked page or by contacting NCDA&CS at 919-233-8214 or by email at 
NCHoneybee@ncagr.gov or call NCSU at 919-515-1660. The NCDA&CS Plant Industry Division 
regulates the movement of agricultural or related items capable of spreading harmful insects, diseases, 
and other pests. Beekeepers participating in this program will be required to comply with all honey and 
bee industry regulations. 
*** 
The N.C. Ag Finance Authority provides credit to agriculture in areas where financing is not available 
at reasonable rates and terms. The agency originates, services and finances farm loans, rural business 
loans, disaster loans and cotton gin loans. It also offers tax-exempt ag development bonds for 
agribusiness processing, ag-related manufacturing or ag waste disposal. For more about Ag Finance 
Authority programs or to request a loan application, call 919-790-3949 or email at 
RequestLoanInfo@ncagr.gov. 
***

Quarantine area for imported fire ant expanding to include all of Granville County and portions of Caswell and Person counties | NC Agriculture

The Southern Farm Show returns to the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh Feb. 2-4, featuring over 400 exhibitors, agricultural meetings, workshops and training, and everything farmers need to prepare for the coming growing season. 

This is the largest annual agricultural exposition in the Carolinas and Virginia. Farm Show events of note: 

 Wake County Agribusiness Kick-off Breakfast: Join the Wake County Agribusiness Breakfast on Feb 2 for the annual show kickoff breakfast. Held at 7:30am in the Hunt Horse Arena restaurant. 

 Meeting of the Tobacco Growers Association of North Carolina: Members of the Tobacco Growers Association of North Carolina gather Feb. 4 in the Holshouser Building to learn the latest news surrounding tobacco and hear from industry experts and elected officials. For more details, visit the TBANC website. 

 NCDA&CS Pesticide Training: Join farmer, landscapers and others seeking NCDA&CS pesticide continuing education credits Feb. 2 in the Holshouser Building. Two sessions - one at 9:30 a.m. and one at 10:45 a.m. - are offered. Check back before the show for details. 

 17th Annual Ag Development Forum: The event will feature Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler's annual State of Agriculture address, an economic outlook, and discussions on other issues facing North Carolina agriculture. Takes place Feb. 3 at 9:30 a.m. in the Gov. Holshouser Building at the N.C. State Fairgrounds in Raleigh.

NCDA&CS accepting applications for the 2022 Specialty Crops Block Grant Program | NC Agriculture

I kept hearing reports that 2020 was shaping up to be a good growing year. But as a farmer, I 
know things can change quickly and you cannot really count on a crop, until it is harvested.
Recently I was looking at the year-end yield report from the USDA’s National Agricultural 
Statistic Service which confirmed that growers did indeed have a very good year. That crop 
report noted record yields for corn and peanuts, with soybeans tied with the previous yield record 
set in 2017.
Cotton yields were also strong at just under 1,000 pounds per acre and we saw a 21,000-acre
increase in tobacco acreage and 41 percent increase in flue-cured tobacco production from the 
previous year. 
It was good to see such strong yields because that meant growers generally had good growing 
conditions, but it was even better knowing that growers were also benefitting from better 
commodity prices.
A single year won’t make up for the challenges North Carolina farmers have faced over the past 
few years, including low commodity prices, devastating storms and flooding, and trade battles. I 
hope 2021’s good growing conditions continue. With significantly rising input costs right now, 
farmers need strong yields and strong prices. 
Here’s a deeper look at some of the other yield numbers reported, starting with the record 
yielding crops: 
We harvested 905,000 acres of corn, up 35,000 acres from 2020. Yield was 149 bushels an acre, 
up 36 bushels. Production was 134.8 million bushels, up 27 percent.
Peanut growers harvested 114,000 acres this year, up 9,000 acres. Yields came in at 4,350 
pounds per acre, up 450 pounds. Production was 496 million pounds, up 21 percent.
Farmers grew 1.64 million acres of soybeans, up 70,000 acres from 2020. The yield averaged 40 
bushels an acre, producing 66 million bushels – an increase of 10 percent.
Cotton and tobacco harvested acreage was up this year. Cotton acres were up 35,000 acres and 
tobacco acreage was up by 21,000 acres. Yield for cotton averaged 99 pounds per acre, up 240 
pounds. Production was 760,000 bales, up 46 percent. 
Tobacco yield was 2,100 pounds per acre, an increase of 300 pounds per acres. Growers 
produced 252 million pounds, which was up 41 percent over 2020.
Tobacco numbers certainly reflect the return of trade with China, which was good news for 
tobacco growers.
At the recent Commodities Conference, commodity associations recognized their high-yield 
winners. You can find a list of winners on page XX.
Finally, I mentioned the skyrocketing costs of farming inputs that growers are seeing. You can 
hear more about what is happening with the fertilizer market along with an economic outlook for 
agriculture at the Annual Ag Development Forum Feb. 3 at the Southern Farm Show at the 
fairgrounds in Raleigh. I hope to see you there

Grants available for agricultural projects | NC Agriculture

Applications being accepted for the 2022 N.C. State Fair Junior Livestock Scholarships | NC Agriculture

The National Agroforestry Survey collects information about the types of agroforestry practices 
used, how they are used, and the number of operations using them. The five agroforestry 
practices included on the survey are typically applied for conservation and production benefits. 
The practices include windbreaks, silvopasture, riparian forest buffers, alley cropping, as well as 
forest farming and multi-story cropping. This project is conducted as a cooperative effort with 
the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agroforestry Center, which is a partnership 
between USDA’s Forest Service and Natural Resources Conservation Service.
The agroforestry survey gives ag producers a convenient and efficient opportunity to provide a 
more complete and accurate picture of the 21st century innovative practices they use on their 
lands and in their operations. Who better to describe such practices than the producers 
themselves? By documenting the significant efforts made by America’s ag producers to 
sustainably manage natural resources while producing the food, fuel and fiber the world requires, 
respondents help ensure continued support for and funding of programs that protect livelihoods 
and ensure resources for future generations.
The survey takes no longer than 50 minutes to complete if you have all five agroforestry 
practices on your operation. Response time will be less if only reporting information for one or a 
few agroforestry practices

High yield corn producers
Dryland Division
AREA 1: Tidewater
Winner: Boerema Farms, Hyde County - 307.61 bushels/acre 
Runner Up: Jamie Allen, Washington County - 293.55 bu/a
Agent Achievement Award: Andrea Gibbs, Hyde County – 294.34 bu/a
AREA 2: Northern Coastal Plain
Winner: Steward Askew, Gates County - 292.16 bu/a 
Runner Up: Reggie Askew, Gates County - 278.17 bu/a
Agent Achievement Award: Craig Ellison, Northampton County – 271.72 bu/a
AREA 3: Southern Coastal Plain
Winner: Jason Tyndall, Sampson County - 265.91 bu/a
Runner Up: Alex Smith, Duplin County - 254.08 bu/a
Agent Achievement Award: Mac Malloy, Robeson County – 277.04 bu/a
AREA 4: Central North Carolina
Winner: Cox Brothers Farms, Union County - 322.93 bu/a
Runner Up: Juliana Maynard, Montgomery County - 298.42 bu/a
Agent Achievement Award: Ben Grandon, Guilford County – 310.72 bu/a
AREA 5: Western North Carolina
Winner: Johnson Farm Operations (Mark), Surry County - 313.37 bu/a
Runner Up: Cranberry Farms, Wilkes County - 308.13 bu/a
Agent Achievement Award: Marsha McGraw, Davie County – 326.35 bu/a
Dryland Division State Winners
Champion: Cox Brothers Farms, Union County - 322.93 bu/a
Runner-Up: Johnson Farm Operations, Surry County - 313.37 bu/a
Dryland Division No-Till Winner: Cox Brothers Farms, Union County - 322.93 bu/a
Irrigated Division State Winners
Champion: Matthews Family Farms of NC, Inc., Davie County - 373.37 bu/a
1st runner up: R and R Farms, B.J. Roberts Jr., Guilford County - 317.42 bu/a
2nd runner up: Jack Oxendine, Robeson County - 287.10 bu/a
3rd runner up: Harris Farm Partnership, Chase and Allen, Greene County - 278.08 bu/a
Irrigated Division No-Till Winner: Matthews Family Farms, Davie County - 373.37 bu/a
2021 Wheat Yield Contest Winners
AREA II: Coastal Plain
Region II Winner: Alex Smith, Duplin County - 121.2 bu/a CROPLAN 9606
Region II 2nd Place: Greg Hughes, Bertie County - 97.2 bu/a SY Richie
Region II 3rd Place: Felton Outland Farming, Gates County - 94.9 bu/a Progeny 18-8
Agent Awards: Dell King, Duplin County; Jarette Hurry, Bertie County; Paul Smith, Gates 
County
AREA III: Tidewater
Region III Winner: Eure Seed Farms Inc., Perquimans County - 125.4 bu/a CROPLAN 8118
Region III 2nd Place: Scuppernong Farm, Tyrrell County - 120.3 bu/a SY Viper
Region III 3rd Place: Paul Smith Jr., Perquimans County - 115.9 bu/a CROPLAN 8022
Agent Awards: Andrea Gibbs, Tyrrell County; Dylan Lilley, Perquimans County
AREA I: Piedmont
Statewide 1st Place & Region I Winner: Cox Brothers Farms, Union County - 148.8 bu/a USG 
3329
Statewide 2nd Place & Region I 2nd Place: A.L. Baucom Family Farms, Union County - 145.3 
bu/a Pioneer 26R45
Statewide 3rd Place & Region I 3rd Place: Simpson Family Farms, Union County - 143.0 bu/a 
Progeny 18-8
Agent Awards: Mikayla Graham, Union County; Andrew Baucom, Union County
2021 Wheat Yield Contest Winners
125 Bushel Wheat Club Awards
- Cox Brothers Farms - 148.8 bu/a, USG 3329
- A.L. Baucom Family Farms - 145.3 bu/a, Pioneer 26R45
- Simpson Family Farms -143.0 bu/a, Progeny 18-8
- Eure Seed Farms, Inc. - 125.4 bu/a, CROPLAN 8118
100 Bushel Wheat Club Awards
- Alex Smith - 121.2 bu/a, CROPLAN 9606
- Scuppernong Farm - 120.3 bu/a, SY Viper
- Paul Smith Jr. - 115.9 bu/a, CROPLAN 8022
- Slades Creek Farms - 113.4 bu/a, Progeny PGX19-17
- Austin Farming Group - 113.1 bu/a, SY Viper
- Pope Farm LLC - 109.5 bu/a, Pioneer 25R40
- Jim Barco - 109.0 USG 3118
- Boerma Farms - 105.2 bu/a, AgriMAXX 520
- Temple Family Farms - 101.1 bu/a, USG 3536
Soybean Yield Winners
Tidewater Region Winner:
- Justin Boyd of 3B Farms, Beaufort County - 99.1 bu/a, planting AgriGold G4995 RX April 7 
Northern Coastal Plain Region Winner:
- Danhaven Farms, Wilson County - 89.9 bu/a, planting Dyna Gro 48XT56 April 28
Southern Coastal Plain Region Winner:
- Locklear Brothers Farm, Robeson County - 91.9 bu/ac, planting Progeny P4821 April 29 
Northern Piedmont Region Winner:
- Shady Grove Dairy, Yadkin County - 92.9 bu/a, planting Dyna Gro 48XT90 April 23
Southern Piedmont Region Winner:
- Cox Brothers Farm, Union County - 96.9 bu/a, planting Uni South Genetics 7481XF April 24 
State Winners:
Irrigated Division:
1st place was from the Northern Piedmont Region - Matthew Family Farms, Davie County -
102.7 bu/a, planting Pioneer P48A60X April 28
2nd place from the Southern Coastal Plain Region: Henry Locklear and Sons Farms, Robeson 
County - 95.0 bu/a planting P44A21X on May 5 
Dryland Division:
1
st place and overall state winner: Russel Hedrick, Catawba County - 117.1 bu/a (new state 
record) planting AgVenture AV51V7E May 16
2nd place was from the Northern Piedmont Region - Matthew Family Farm, Yadkin County -
99.9 bu/a planting Pioneer P48A60X April 1

The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Pesticides Division and local county cooperative extension offices have scheduled five upcoming live zoom meetings on auxin best management practices. The dates are Feb. 1, Feb. 17, March 1, March 15 and March 30, with all Zoom meetings beginning at 8:30 a.m. In the past few years, growers who planned to use auxin products were required to take classes to be able to apply the herbicide. The training was designed to limit or prevent damage to other crops by making sure applicators were aware of best management practices. That training has been successful, with North Carolina seeing very few cases of unintentional damage. Nationally, auxin products have come under greater EPA review/regulation with application cut-off dates of June 30 for soybeans and July 30 for cotton, which will likely limit their use in North Carolina. It is unlikely North Carolina will receive approval for 24(c) labels that would change the applications cutoff dates for dicamba. NCDA&CS will move forward with 2022 training for Eugenia, XtendiMax and Tavium. Registration is required to attend the Live Zoom training, but that can be completed prior to joining the Zoom session. Participants should contact their local county ag extension agent for Zoom link and passcode. Pesticide credits are available for attendees. No partial credit is given for participants arriving late or leaving early. Attendance will be taken at the end of the course and identity verification will be conducted at the beginning of course and after breaks

February

• Tobacco transplant producers should doublecheck the nutrient content of their float-bed water by submitting a sample for solution analysis.

   

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• Gear up for spring gardening by checking the quality of your compost.

  Everyone knows that the NCDA&CS Agronomic Division analyzes soil samples, but most people are surprised when they find out that it tests compost too. Putting out compost is a good way to improve the physical properties of the soil and increase its moisture-holding capacity. However, compost also contains organic fertilizer nutrients. For this reason, you really ought to know ahead of time how much “fertilizer” you are applying.

  To determine the fertilizer value of compost, collect a good, representative sample and send it in for waste analysis. Resultswill tell you the concentrations of nutrients that are available to your plants the first season the compost is applied as well as the compost’s pH and electrical conductivity (a measure of soluble salts). The report also provides the ratio of total carbon to nitrogen, which helps commercial compost producers decide how to best mix feed stocks to optimize decomposition rate.

   

   

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• Familiarize yourself with wheat tissue sampling guidelines.

  Dr. Randy Weisz of N.C. State University has refined wheat fertilization guidelines for North Carolina conditions. These guidelines tie recommended fertilizer rates to wheat biomass measurements and tissue test results. Growers who want to use these guidelines must submit both types of samples (biomass and tissue) to the Agronomic Division. For more information, contact your regional agronomist or other agricultural advisor.

   

  ---

• Monitor strawberry nutrient status by tissue sampling.

  The Agronomic Division recommends monitoring the nutritional status of strawberries and the efficiency of fertilizer programs by submitting a plant tissue sample at least once a month, preferably every two weeks. Sampling should begin with the first flush of growth in the spring and continue throughout the flowering and fruiting season.

  Plant tissue samples should be representative of conditions in the field. A good sample includes the most recently mature trifoliate leaves (leaf blades and petioles) from 20 to 25 locations in the field. Detach petioles from the leaves as you collect them but include them in the sample. 

  • soil pH and nutrient levels,
  • environmental conditions such as rainfall and temperature,
  • disease and insect pressure, and
  • plant appearance and stage of development.

• Check source water used in greenhouse and nursery operations and correct any SAR (sodium adsorption ratio) problems.

  Water used in plant production, including greenhouse-grown tobacco transplants, should have an SAR value of 4 or less. For ornamental plants in a nursery setting, SAR values of 10 or greater are cause for concern. High SAR values are most common for water samples from coastal areas.

  A high SAR value on a solution report indicates an imbalance among sodium (Na), calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) cations. This imbalance can cause leaf burn due to foliar uptake of Na. In mineral soils, this imbalance can also lead to poor soil structure, which hinders infiltration of water. In soilless container media, however, this effect is negligible.

  The best way to reduce SAR to the desired level is to add calcium from a source such as gypsum. To calculate the amount of gypsum needed to reduce SAR to 4, follow these steps.

  1. Calculate the amount of calcium required in parts per million (ppm).
     
     Ca needed = 0.004725 Na² – 1.64 Mg – Ca,
     
     where Na, Mg and Ca are the ppm concentrations listed on the solution report.
     
      
  2. Calculate the appropriate rate of gypsum (22% Ca) to apply by inserting the Ca needed value from step 1 into the following equation.
     
     Ca needed × 0.0607 = ounces gypsum per 100 gallons of water

Bucolic briefs
The Equestrian Exchange Tack Consignment Sale to buy and consign anything related to the 
equestrian sport will be held March 24-27 at the Holshouser Building, State Fairgrounds, Raleigh. Sale 
features saddles, tack, driving equipment, show clothing for all disciplines of riding, barn supplies, 
carts, horse trailers and other animal items. Bar code tagging on event website allows consignor to 
view sales from home. Tagging guidelines mandatory. Consignors drop off priced, tagged items March 
22 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and March 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sale dates are March 24-27. A special 
premier shopping night open to public for $10 cash only will be March 24 from 5 to 10 p.m. Open 
shopping with free admission is March 25 and 26 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and March 27 from 11 a.m. 
to 7 p.m. Some items discounted 1/2 off March 27. Unsold items to be picked up on March 29 from 3
to 8 p.m. or March 30 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. or they are donated. Please make arrangements if you 
want unsold items returned. Items cannot be stored or transferred sale to sale. Refer to donation page to 
see how we help our equestrian programs in our community. Consignors earn 70%, donate unsold 
items to NC non-profit equestrian organizations if desire. Volunteers all ages needed, shop before 
consignors, consignors shop before public. Sign up on website. Payment accepted: cash, NC checks 
with 2 IDs approved, debit and credit cards with fee/per card transaction. N.C. government regulations 
for COVID followed for everyone’s safety. DROP and GO and PICK up and Go (no wait or scanning 
in items waived) consigning available, see website. Waivers to be signed at drop off. For more 
information go to www.EquestrianExchange.com or contact Lynn Beeson 336-362-6248 or Tanya 
Wright 540-977-1950.
As a way to help farmers and agricultural workers stay safe at work, the N.C. Department of Labor 
offers safety videos on a variety of topics through its YouTube channel. Video topics include: 
preventing green tobacco sickness, hazard communication, tobacco harvester safety, heat stress, 
migrant housing requirements, forklift safety, and information about the NCDOL’s Gold Star Growers 
program. The videos are in English and Spanish to increase understanding of safety hazards and 
preventing accidents. To learn more about the NCDOL and the Agricultural Safety and Health Bureau, 
go to www.nclabor.com or call 1-800-NC-LABOR (800-625-2267). NCDOL is also on Facebook and 
Twitter (@NCDOL).
***
Beekeepers with bees for rent and growers interested in bee pollination services can post their 
information on the BeeLinked website 
Anyone interested in listing their information can do so by filling out an online Submit Your Ad form 
on the BeeLinked page or by contacting NCDA&CS at 919-233-8214 or by email at 
NCHoneybee@ncagr.gov or call NCSU at 919-515-1660. The NCDA&CS Plant Industry Division 
regulates the movement of agricultural or related items capable of spreading harmful insects, diseases, 
and other pests. Beekeepers participating in this program will be required to comply with all honey and 
bee industry regulations.
***
The N.C. Ag Finance Authority provides credit to agriculture in areas where financing is not available 
at reasonable rates and terms. The agency originates, services and finances farm loans, rural business 
loans, disaster loans and cotton gin loans. It also offers tax-exempt ag development bonds for 
agribusiness processing, ag-related manufacturing or ag waste disposal. For more about Ag Finance 
Authority programs or to request a loan application, call 919-790-3949 or email at 
RequestLoanInfo@ncagr.gov. 
**

Assistance available for swine and dairy producers that suffered a pandemic loss | NC Agriculture

The Southern Farm Show returns to the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh Feb. 2-4, featuring over 400 exhibitors, agricultural meetings, workshops and training, and everything farmers need to prepare for the coming growing season. This is the largest annual agricultural exposition in the Carolinas and Virginia. 

Farm Show events of note: 

 Breakfast with the Commissioner Fundraiser: The Tobacco Farm Life Museum will hold its annual Breakfast with the Commissioner Feb. 4 at 7:30 a.m. in the Holshouser Building at the show. The highlight of the event will be the presentation of the “Excellence in Agriculture” award by N.C. Commissioner of Agriculture Steve Troxler. Proceeds from the breakfast assist the Tobacco Farm Life Museum in “preserving and presenting the history and heritage of the rural North Carolina farming community.” 

 Wake County Agribusiness Kick-off Breakfast: Join the Wake County Agribusiness Breakfast on Feb 2 for the annual show kickoff breakfast. Held at 7:30am in the Hunt Horse Arena restaurant. 

 Meeting of the Tobacco Growers Association of North Carolina: Members of the Tobacco Growers Association of North Carolina gather Feb. 4 in the Holshouser Building to learn the latest news surrounding tobacco and hear from industry experts and elected officials. For more details, visit the TBANC website. 

 NCDA&CS Pesticide Training: Join farmer, landscapers and others seeking NCDA&CS pesticide continuing education credits Feb. 2 in the Holshouser Building. Two sessions - one at 9:30 a.m. and one at 10:45 a.m. - are offered. Check back before the show for details. 

 17th Annual Ag Development Forum: The event will feature Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler's annual State of Agriculture address, an economic outlook, and discussions on other issues facing North Carolina agriculture. Takes place Feb. 3 at 9:30 a.m. in the Gov. Holshouser Building at the N.C. State Fairgrounds in Raleigh

Nine appointed to inaugural N.C. Spiritous Liquor Advisory Council | NC Agriculture

Curtis Wynn, president and CEO of Roanoke Electric Cooperative, has been selected to receive the 2021 
Larry Wooten Rural Leadership Award, awarded by Governor Roy Cooper and Agriculture Commissioner 
Steve Troxler. 
Wynn has served in leadership roles with Roanoke Electric for 24 years, improving the quality of life in 
diverse rural communities and becoming an influential leader in rural North Carolina. Wynn’s efforts 
have helped bring high speed internet to rural North Carolina to connect families, farmers, and 
businesses with the resources they need to thrive in the global economy. Wynn is also a long-time 
advocate of sustainable land management, including a sustainable forestry program that works 
specifically with Black landowners, and developing North Carolina’s clean energy workforce.
“Curtis Wynn has brought opportunity and innovation to rural North Carolina, making rural communities 
an even better place to live and work,” Governor Cooper said. “Thanks to his work, more families, 
schools and businesses have access to high-speed internet, a critical tool to help rural communities 
thrive. We are working hard to build on the great work of our rural co-ops and other partners to get 
even more North Carolinians connected to broadband.” 
“We know that if our state is to grow and prosper, it must be a place for everyone to have opportunity. 
We can’t leave rural North Carolina behind as our cities thrive,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve 
Troxler. “Curtis Wynn has built a transformative legacy of leadership, from efforts to bring broadband 
connectivity to rural communities and raising more than $10 million to support economic development 
projects, to encouraging wealth creation through land ownership and sustainable land management. He 
is an important leader and ally for rural North Carolina.” 
Wynn is the immediate past president of the Board of Directors of the National Rural Electric 
Cooperative Association and currently serves on the boards of North Carolina Electric Cooperative, 
MCNC, U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities, and MyFutureNC.
The Rural Leadership Award is presented each year to an outstanding leader who has worked to 
advance North Carolina’s rural communities. The first ever Rural Leadership Award was presented in 
2019 to Larry Wooten, for whom the award is now named. The selection committee includes 
representatives from Hometown Strong (Governor Cooper’s initiative for Rural North Carolina), the N.C. 
Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, and the N.C. Department of Agriculture. Award 
recipients must exemplify rural leadership in three areas: long-standing commitment to rural endeavors, 
a positive impact on rural life though significant and sustaining improvements for people living in rural 
communities, and an exemplary character that inspires North Carolinians

N.C. Tobacco Trust Fund Commission awards over $4 million in grants | NC Agriculture

NCDA&CS announces specialty crop block grant recipients | NC Agriculture

January

• Test soilless media for annual flowers and vegetable seedling production.

  Prior to filling containers and sowing seeds, the analysis of soilless media (substrate) will detect if chemical properties such as pH, electrical conductivity (soluble salts), and nutrient concentrations are ideal for optimum and efficient production of annual flowers and vegetable seedlings. During production, analysis of soilless media is a best management practice that helps to identify if fertilizer has been depleted or if it is excessively high. Also, if a problem occurs during production, this test will help diagnose if the trouble is related to nutrition and suggest appropriate corrective action.

  ---

• Scout wheat early and plan to tissue test.

  Wheat producers need to count tillers in January and follow up with tissue sampling in late February or March. This approach is the best way to optimize fertilizer purchases and application. At the beginning of green-up in January, 50 to 70 tillers per square foot is optimum. If the count is lower, apply half the spring topdress nitrogen right away. This application will help the crop continue to produce tillers on warm days without excessive growth.

  Tissue test in February or March (at Feekes growth stage 5 or Zadoks GS 30) to find out if more nitrogen is needed. Contact your regional agronomist if you need additional guidance on how to count tillers or identify the appropriate growth stage.

  ---

• Test source water for tobacco seedling float beds.

  Nearly half of the source water samples taken from tobacco float bed operations in North Carolina and about one in five nutrient solution samples have high alkalinity (sometimes known as total carbonates). Alkalinity values greater than or equal to 100 contribute to high pH and soluble-salt problems. When necessary, the solution report provides recommendations for reducing alkalinity by 80%.

I found an interesting 2017 FFA article that listed its predictions for the Top 5 
Agriculture Careers in 2020. In order, they were 1. Drone Technologists 2. Hydrologists 3. Ag 
Communicators 4. Food Scientists 5. Precision Agriculture Technologists.
The common thread with nearly each of these is science and technology – things that 
people may not always associate with agriculture. That’s a misperception that we have got to 
change.
Science and technology already factor heavily into today’s modern farms – GPS 
technology guiding precision agricultural inputs, no-steer technology on tractors, soil testing, 
water testing, plant tissue testing, field surveying by drones, farming software and online data –
just to name a few.
As agriculture works to keep pace with the food needs of a growing population, we will 
most certainly be looking at science and technology to drive even more advances in yields and 
production, which is exciting to think about.
With the 2021 opening of our department’s Agriculture Sciences Center and the Plant 
Sciences Initiative at N.C. State University, we are arming ourselves with state-of-the-art 
technology and facilities to support and grow our state’s $95.9 billion ag and agribusiness 
industry. 
I believe the completion of these buildings and being able to bring them online now is 
well timed with the big task we have in front of us to increase global food production by 75 to 
100 percent by 2050. They are the right projects at the right time. And this investment will help 
North Carolina farmers and farms be well positioned to meet future demands. 
People are often surprised by the types of jobs we have in the N.C. Department of 
Agriculture and Consumer Services. We employ many scientists and people in science-based 
careers across many disciplines – lab technicians, soil scientists, veterinarians, plant scientists, 
entomologists, chemists, environmental scientists, food scientists, and more. 
In this paper, we have highlighted a couple of young people working in agriculture and 
pursuing careers in the field and we also have two articles written by University of Mount Olive 
students as part of a partnership with their communications classes. 
And, I am proud to say with the start of the year, we are kicking off a new social media 
series highlighting NCDA&CS employees and the work they do to support agriculture and the 
industry. 
We need bright young people to see the opportunities available in agriculture so they can 
help us harness the technology that is available, create new technology and apply these advances 
to production. We are only scratching the surface of what we can achieve with technology, 
which makes it a very exciting time for the industry

Horse events
Southeastern Ag Center, Lumberton 910-618-5699
No events listed.
Sen. Bob Martin Agricultural Center, Williamston, 252-792-5111
Feb. 18 & 19 Old Ford Volunteer Fire Dept. Survivor Series Rodeo. Contact Frankie Buck, 252-
946-9780.
March 11 & 12 N.C. Barrel Bonanza. Contact Fred Smith, 252-883-1641.
March 26 & 27 March Magic Dressage. Contact Cassidy Oeltjen, 618-201-3290.
March 31-April 4 Martinganza Quarter Horse Show & Futurity. Contact Susan Daniels, 919-
894-0600.
WNC Ag Center, Fletcher 828-687-1414
Feb. 11-13 N.C. High School Rodeo. Contact www.nchsrodeo.com.
Gov. James B. Hunt Jr. Horse Complex, State Fairgrounds, Raleigh,
No events listed

Bucolic briefs
As a way to help farmers and agricultural workers stay safe at work, the N.C. Department of Labor 
offers safety videos on a variety of topics through its YouTube channel. Video topics include: 
preventing green tobacco sickness, hazard communication, tobacco harvester safety, heat stress, 
migrant housing requirements, forklift safety, and information about the NCDOL’s Gold Star Growers 
program. The videos are in English and Spanish to increase understanding of safety hazards and 
preventing accidents. To learn more about the NCDOL and the Agricultural Safety and Health Bureau, 
go to www.nclabor.com or call 1-800-NC-LABOR (800-625-2267). NCDOL is also on Facebook and 
Twitter (@NCDOL).
***
Beekeepers with bees for rent and growers interested in bee pollination services can post their 
information on the BeeLinked website at 

The site is hosted by the N.C. 
Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the N.C. State University Apiculture Program. 
Anyone interested in listing their information can do so by filling out an online Submit Your Ad form 
on the BeeLinked page or by contacting NCDA&CS at 919-233-8214 or by email at 
NCHoneybee@ncagr.gov or call NCSU at 919-515-1660. The NCDA&CS Plant Industry Division 
regulates the movement of agricultural or related items capable of spreading harmful insects, diseases, 
and other pests. Beekeepers participating in this program will be required to comply with all honey and 
bee industry regulations.
***
The N.C. Ag Finance Authority provides credit to agriculture in areas where financing is not available 
at reasonable rates and terms. The agency originates, services and finances farm loans, rural business 
loans, disaster loans and cotton gin loans. It also offers tax-exempt ag development bonds for 
agribusiness processing, ag-related manufacturing or ag waste disposal. For more about Ag Finance 
Authority programs or to request a loan application, call 919-790-3949 or email at 
RequestLoanInfo@ncagr.gov. 
***