Agriculture
Did you know that agriculture/agribusiness is the #1 industry in the state at $70 billion? Or that 17% of the state’s workforce is in agriculture/agribusiness related jobs? Whether you're a consumer or produ-cer, these sites should be very helpful. (Stats from N.C. Agricultural Development & Farmland Preservation Trust Fund)
Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project (ASAP) - This organization promotes and supports farm products grown or raised in Western N.C. and the southern Appalachian mountains. Its goals include supporting family farms, strengthening the local economy, preserving rural culture, and protecting the natural beauty of the Appalachian mountains.
Beverages and Food - This section of Made in North Carolina is an excellent source for farm fresh products, specialty foods, wine and other beverages, agritourism, farmers markets, etc.
Carolina Farm Stewardship Association (CFSA) - Founded in 1979, CFSA's mission is to promote local and organic agriculture in the Carolinas by inspiring, educating and organizing farmers and consumers. Search for locally-grown food in your area.
Center for Environmental Farming Systems (CEFS) - Located near Goldsboro, CEFS develops and promotes food and farming systems that protect the environment, strengthen local communities, and provide economic opportu-nities in North Carolina and beyond. It also offers useful workshops. It is a partnership of NC State University, NC A&T State University and the NC Department of Agriculture working with state and federal agencies, organizations, farmers, & citizens.
Growing Small Farms - Created by Chatham County Center of the NC Cooperative Extension, this project works with small farms in Chatham County promoting sustainable agriculture. It also has useful information for other small farms in N.C. It is for growers and consumers, and includes information on various farms and farmers markets.
North Carolina Association of Agricultural Fairs - The members of this association are the community, county, regional, and state fairs across North Carolina that have been certified by the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. This site is for members and consumers.
North Carolina Cooperative Extension - This is a great organization that gives N.C. residents easy access to the resources and expertise from NC State University and NC A&T State University. The Cooperative Extension is located in all 100 counties and on the Cherokee Reservation. They answer questions on agriculture, food, environment, forest resources, health & nutrition, lawn & garden, 4H program, etc.
N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services - This is the state umbrella agency for North Carolina's agriculture and consumer services. It is very useful for producers & consumers. Familiar programs include "Goodness Grows in NC," the farmers markets, and the State Fair. The department also has regulatory and inspection functions, a great Marketing Division, and many other programs, publications and guides.
North Carolina Forestry Association (NCFA) - NCFA is the state's oldest conservation organization (est. 1911). It is a private, nonprofit partnership of more than 4,000 forest managers, landowners, mill operators, loggers, furniture manu-facturers, educators and others concerned about the long-term health and productivity of the state's forest resources and the industries they support.
North Carolina Future Farmers of America (NCFFA) - NCFFA is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.
NCHerb.org - NCHerb.org is packed with information and websites about the development of sustainable and organic production systems for herbs, vegetables, and specialty crops. This project, as well as others, was started by Dr. Jeanine Davis from NC State University. Check out NC Organic, and North Carolina Specialty Crops Program.
North Carolina Herb Association - Started in 1986, this not-for-profit organization promotes the production, marketing, and use of herbs and herb related products through education and research. There are lots of great links on the site!
North Carolina Native Plant Society - Formed in 1951, the N.C. Native Plant Society (formerly called the NC Wild Flower Preservation Society) promotes the enjoyment and conservation of North Carolina's native plants and their habitats through education, protection, propagation, and advocacy.
North Carolina Organic Products - Organic Consumers Association has a great list of organic and green businesses in North Carolina (and the U.S.) as well as other good information.
North Carolina Rural Economic Development Center - The Rural Center was created in 1987. Its mission is to develop, promote, & implement sound economic strategies to improve the quality of life of rural North Carolinians. It serves 85 rural counties, with a special focus on individuals with low to moderate incomes & communities with limited resources.
Organic Growers School (OGS) - Started in 1993, the Organic Growers School is a grassroots organization in Western N.C. It supports sustainable agriculture in the Southern Appalachians through educational programs and outreach. The annual OGS Spring Conference is the largest event of it’s type in the Southeast.
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