NC Ag Commissioner Steve Troxler

The N.C. Forest Service’s annual seedling sale starts July 1, with orders being accepted for native and genetically improved tree varieties. Interested landowners are encouraged to shop early for the best availability.

North Carolina’s Forest Sector continues to be a significant contributor to the economy and employer, according to a recent N.C. State University report. International exports were up $1.73 billion in 2023.

The NCDA&CS Agronomic Services Division helps farmers and homeowners optimize growing conditions whether that is a crop, lawn or garden. Now is a great time of year for homeowners to submit their soil samples for quicker turnaround time.

The latest National Agricultural Statistics Service’s Crop Progress and Condition Reports show farmers are busy putting in this year’s crops and conditions point to mostly adequate soil moisture. Regional agronomists reports indicate the planting season is off to a good start.

For the first time, the destructive spotted lanternfly has been detected in Rockingham County, making it the third county in the state where the pest has been found. Other sites are in Forsyth and Guilford counties.  

The NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services recently announced 31 recipients of the N.C. State Fair Junior Livestock Scholarships to help fund higher education for youth who participate in State Fair Junior Livestock Shows. Funding comes from the annual Junior Livestock Sale of Champions.

As we prepare to host the Got to Be NC Festival May 16-18 at the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh, we are also celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the Got to Be NC marketing program.   

Equine owners can protect their horses, mules and donkeys against mosquito-borne illnesses by getting them vaccinated for EEE and West Nile Virus. Both can be deadly for equine.

Farm activity is picking up as farmers are busy preparing and planting for the upcoming season. That means drivers may come across farm equipment and tractors on the road. Slow down, be patient and share the road with farm equipment to be sure everyone stays safe.    

RALEIGH -North Carolina poultry has been designated High Path Avian Influenza-free by the World Organization for Animal Health. This designation means that the state can resume exports and international trade for poultry products.  Broilers, or chicken raised for meat, are the top agricultural commodity for North Carolina, representing more than $5.6 billion in cash receipts […]