Each week we round up the latest N.C. agricultural headlines from news outlets across the state and country, as well as excerpts from the stories. Click on the links to go straight to the full story.
- “BRAC plans seek farm, forest preservation,” Fayetteville Observer: The state has certified plans for Cumberland and Scotland counties that recommend ways to preserve farmland and reduce incompatible development, the BRAC Regional Task Force announced Thursday. …
- “Commissioners hear report about poultry processing plant,” McDowell News: On Monday, the McDowell County Commissioners heard an update on the Foothills pilot plant that will process poultry and rabbit meat for small farmers in this area. …
- “Troxler refuses to suggest cuts,” Greensboro News & Record: Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler says there’s nowhere left to cut in his department and he has refused to give Gov. Bev Perdue recommendations on where to cut spending. …
- “How the sweet potato could help save world from malnutrition,” News & Observer: WASHINGTON — The sweet potato, that Thanksgiving staple, is starring in a new agricultural revolution that aims not just to produce more food but to create more nutrient-enriched foods that can help save the world’s poorest people from blindness, stunted growth and disease. …
- “There’s an apple for that: Variety, versatility put the fruit in any dish,” Charlotte Observer: Braeburn, Cortland, Fuji, Gala and Golden Delicious – farmers markets brim with apples at this time of year, their rosy, golden skins catching autumn’s waning sunlight. …
- “Study on companion-animal welfare under way,” Jacksonville Daily News: The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is gathering public input for a study of companion-animal welfare. The General Assembly authorized the study during the 2010 legislative session. …
- “Scientists look at crops, bugs and animals,” News & Observer: Genetic engineering usually brings to mind genetically modified crops of corn and soybeans. But the debate over transgenics is now turning from plants to mosquitoes and other pests. …
- “NC organic bread flour project moves one step closer to fruition,” Mountain Xpress: Artisan bread lovers take note: The long-fought effort to provide grow and mill hard wheat for discerning area bakers has resulted in the creation of a hybrid company that puts the love of organic flour on an equal footing with the need to earn a profit. …