For the first time in almost four decades, African swine fever has been detected in the Americas. This is a concerning development, but one for which the commercial pork industry is well prepared. Biosecurity has long been a major focus of commercial hog production and biosecurity procedures have remained high since African swine fever was first detected in China in 2019.
Press Releases
The N.C. Mountain State Fair “Rides Again” in 2021, returning to the WNC Ag Center in Fletcher, Sept. 10-19.“The Fair is back for 10 days of full-steam fun,” said fair manager Matt Buchanan. “Competitions are a popular attraction with fairgoers, and this year’s fair will include both new competitions and plenty of returning favorites. Showcasing the talents and skills of all those who call Western North Carolina home, is one of the best parts in celebrating our community.”New competitions
WHO/WHAT:The N.C. Industrial Hemp Commission will hold a public meeting for an update on the future direction of the N.C. hemp program.
Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler recently promoted Dr. Michael P. Martin to serve as State Veterinarian. Martin previously served as Poultry Section Head for the Veterinary Division since 2012. In that role he had oversight of all poultry programs operations within the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Martin replaces Dr. Doug Meckes, who retires at the end of this month.
WHO/WHAT:The N.C. Industrial Hemp Commission will hold a public meeting for an update on the future direction of the N.C. hemp program.WHEN/WHERE:Thursday, Aug. 52 p.m.
Thirteen elementary school students’ art pieces have been chosen for the North Carolina Farm to School 2021-2022 calendar. This marks the 11th year for the popular contest.
The North Carolina State Fair, a division of the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, today announced a major partnership with Triangle tech leader Bandwidth Inc.As part of the partnership, Bandwidth will become a major sponsor of the N.C. State Fair and the company’s team members will serve as volunteers at various events. Bandwidth will also co-host a key addition to the 2021 N.C. State Fair: accessABILITY Day, a new special event day for people with disabilities.
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 and social media sites. Please feel free to use any of this content in your publications or contact us if you would like additional information.
Summer travels offer great opportunities to explore an agritourism farm or activity, and visitors will find plenty in North Carolina from tours, u-pick fruit, farm stands, farmers markets, festivals and local foods. The following is a sample of experiences offered at North Carolina farms this summer.
The 2021 State Fair Premium Book is finally here, and this year’s new competitions will certainly prove to have been worth the wait. This year’s State Fair will feature several new competitions open for entries. These new competitions were created in an effort to encourage competition entries as these simpler projects can be completed within weeks rather than some projects that can take up to a whole year.