When members of the Agronomic Services Division’s soil lab envisioned building a greenhouse garden at the office, they expected it would provide fruits, vegetables and a place to take their breaks, but they didn’t expect it would help them connect more...
Andrea Ashby
Dr. Young’s Pond Berry Farm in Angier is a small farm offering a “berry” big experience
While strawberries are the first fruit of spring, blueberries, blackberries and raspberries quickly follow as spring gives way to summer. They also have a pretty big fan base, which has helped contribute to the success of Dr. Young’s Pond Berry Farm in Harnett County...
North Carolina strawberries on school menus for the next five weeks; on pace for a record year
Spring is a great time of year for many reasons -- the return of warm weather plus the growing season getting under way, and then there is strawberry season! For strawberry lovers, it seems like it is such a short window of time to enjoy these tasty berries. But for...
Agricultural and historic African American education roots run deep at Greene County Century Farm
As one of North Carolina’s 2,007 Century farms and 115 Bicentennial farms recognized by the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the Sauls Family Farm in Greene County has cemented its spot in the state’s agricultural fabric and history. But the...
10 Dietitian tips for a happier and healthier you in 2023
If you are setting health and fitness goals for the new year, remember that fresh North Carolina fruits, vegetables and proteins can be part of helping you achieve those goals. Consider adding "Shop Local" to your list of resolutions to source farm-fresh foods....
New assistant manager has deep roots in agricultural fairs; brings a passion for ag education to the job
The N.C. State Fair's new assistant manager Robert Fogle is new to North Carolina, but definitely not to agricultural fairs. The native of Frederick, Maryland grew up showing animals at his local fair through 4-H and FFA programs, gaining a love for...
Small farming operation is a dream come true
Tom Savage is living his lifelong dream of being a small farmer. At 70, his enthusiasm and joy for this dream realized is readily apparent as he talks about new agritourism ideas and opportunities and plans for the future. Savage and his wife Linda operate Allied...
Small Snow Hill farmer has built his business through direct local sales of collards, heirloom variety sweet potatoes and greens
At 79 years old with a lifetime of farming experience to his name, James Shackleford of Snow Hill well understands the challenges of being a small farmer and making a living from the land. This year, he’s watching his input costs even more closely as he makes plans to put another crop in the ground. […]
Nationally recognized Bandys High School ag teacher found her tribe, now inspires the next generation
Laura Pugh Parker’s path could have taken many different directions, but the Bandys High School ag teacher knows she is where she was meant to be, doing what she meant to do. And, she knows one teacher can make a big difference. The wife and mother of two, who counts hundreds of current and past […]
Food traditions help define the holidays and spark joyful memories
Sheri Castle has been writing about food and talking about food professionally for 30 years, always with the goal of helping home cooks become more confident and passionate about cooking. She understands the powerful connection between food and holiday memories. “We all know the feeling of getting a whiff of an aroma of a ham […]
Triangle chef draws from his roots for classic Quiche Lorraine recipe
It seems fitting that Chef Serge Falcoz-Vigne serves up a classic French Quiche Lorraine recipe as a favorite. While quiches can trace their early origins back to Germany, the French are credited with expanding and defining the dish, establishing it as a versatile favorite meal. The hearty and savory Quiche Lorraine is a perfect example, […]
Charlotte restaurant brings local seasonality to the table
Charlotte restaurant Fine & Fettle prides itself on the use of locally-sourced and sustainable foods on its innovative menu. Located in the Canopy by Hilton in Charlotte, Chef Daniel Wheeler creates memorable dishes that give guests and diners an elevated taste of the South, while showcasing the considerable variety of foods grown in the state. […]