Press Releases

Haywood County native named research station superintendent

Haywood County native Kyle Miller has moved into the top leadership position at the Mountain Research Station in Waynesville – something he considers not just a blessing but a gift that he feels led to share."I've always loved agriculture. I've always just wanted to farm my whole life,” Miller said. “When it's in your blood, it's more than just a job or profession. You feel like you've got a moral responsibility, and you owe it to the rest of society."

Statement from Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler on waiving of motor vehicle regulations to help farmers

Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler has officially recommended to Gov. Roy Cooper that agricultural transportation waivers be implemented for the movement of livestock and agricultural products, paving the way for farmers to work ahead of the impending approach of Hurricane Idalia. The agricultural transportation waivers do not require Council of State concurrence.

Advance tickets help you plan for savings at the N.C. Mountain State Fair

Fairgoers still have time to save money on admission to the 2023 N.C. Mountain State Fair with advance tickets. Discounted admission tickets are available online only at mountainfair.org.“Planning ahead and buying tickets now is the best way to save money,” said fair manager Sean McKeon. “Once the fair begins on September 8, you can still buy tickets online to save yourself some time when you get to the fair, but tickets will be regular price once the fair opens.”

2023-2024 Got to Be NC Culinary and Beverage Ambassadors named

RALEIGH - Each year, chef and mixologists from across the state compete in the N.C. Restaurant and Lodging Association’s Chef Showdown to win the titles of NCRLA Chef of the Year, NCRLA Pastry Chef of the Year and NCRLA Mixologist of the Year.The winners along with the runners up and the People’s Choice Award winners in each category, have the honor of also being named members of the Got to Be NC Culinary and Beverage Ambassador teams for a one-year term. The NCRLA Chef Showdown series wrapped up and winners were named Aug. 14 at the grand finale held at the Angus Barn in Raleigh.

Regional interest news roundup from NCDA&CS

Below is a summary of local interest stories that have recently been highlighted on the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ In the Field Blog. Please feel free to use any of this content or photos in your publications or contact us if you have any additional questions.

Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund Advisory Committee to meet June 6

WHO/WHAT:    The Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund will hold an advisory committee meeting to review the trust fund budget, hear reports on Trust Fund activities and easement status and conduct other trust fund activity.  WHEN:Tuesday, June 6, 2023 1:30 p.m.  WHERE:The meeting will take place in the Hall of Fame Room at the Agriculture Building, 2 W. Edenton St., Raleigh.

2023-2024 Got to Be NC Culinary and Beverage Ambassadors named

Each year, chef and mixologists from across the state compete in the N.C. Restaurant and Lodging Association’s Chef Showdown to win the titles of NCRLA Chef of the Year, NCRLA Pastry Chef of the Year and NCRLA Mixologist of the Year. The winners along with the runners up and the People’s Choice Award winners in each category, have the honor of also being named members of the Got to Be NC Culinary and Beverage Ambassador teams for a one-year term. The NCRLA Chef Showdown series wrapped up and winners were named Aug. 14 at the grand finale held at the Angus Barn in Raleigh.

Mountain State Fair adds new attractions to its lineup

FLETCHER –Racing and swimming pigs, splashing sea lions and a swirling and spinning new spectacular ride are a few of the new attractions planned for the 2023 N.C.

Advance tickets on sale now for 2023 N.C. State Fair

RALEIGH - The North Carolina State Fair is approaching quickly and it is a great time to start planning your trip and save some money. Advance sales for tickets, wristbands for rides and ride tickets begins Aug. 15. Advance sales will run through Oct. 12 and are $10 for adults and $5 for youth ages 6-12. Unlimited ride wristbands are $30 each and can be purchased online. Wristbands are for one day only and vouchers can be redeemed at the Ride Ticket Plazas once the Fair begins. They are not valid for the State Fair Flyer or the State Fair SkyGazer. 

Come work for the 2023 N.C. Mountain State Fair

FLETCHER – The North Carolina Mountain State Fair is looking for more people to join the fun and work at the fair this year.