Press Releases

 By David H. Hardy & Joe Hudyncia, Agronomic Division – NCDA&CSLuke Gatiboni, Crop & Soil Science Department– NC State UniversityHurricane Helene caused great devastation throughout much of western North Carolina and farm fields were not spared. There are reports of impacts to fields in all landscape positions. This situation calls for a vigilant approach to soil and crop management that includes assessment on a field-by-field basis.
 
RALEIGH – The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has opened a new mass communication tool NCFARMAID, that will allow farmers to opt in to receive emergency response information and links to important hurricane relief resources. The tool is free to use and communication is one-way only.To opt in for the service, farmers should text NCFARMAID to 888777.
The application period for county governments and conservation nonprofit groups to apply for farmland preservation grants from the N.C. Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund opens Oct. 14. Applicants have until Jan. 17, 2025, to apply.
RALEIGH – The 2024 N.C. State Fair is busy getting ready for fairgoers and visitors will find a mix of new entertainment joining popular returning acts plus the addition of a two new amusement rides at this year’s fair.
RALEIGH – Due to the impact of Hurricane Helene on pesticide training and recertification, private pesticide applicators statewide will have until Dec. 20 to meet their recertification requirements.            
WHO/WHAT: The N.C. Plant Conservation Board will meet to discuss items related to land conservation, stewardship efforts of the N.C. Plant Conservation Program and regulatory matters. WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024; 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.WHERE: Steve Troxler Agricultural Science Center 4400 Reedy Creek Road, Raleigh, NCOr attendees can join virtually using the following:Join on your computer, mobile app or room device
Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler will be at the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market Monday at 3 p.m. to talk about ongoing hurricane relief efforts in Western North Carolina, ag damage and the results of a collection drive at the Charlotte Farmers Market. The market is located at 1801Yorkmont Road, Charlotte, 28217.
RALEIGH – With the amount of storm debris brought on by Hurricane Helene and North Carolina on the cusp of fall wildfire season, the N.C. Forest Service is reminding the public to think ahead and be cautious when burning outdoors.