Now that we are well into the fall months, images of wildfire activity have begun to infiltrate media outlets and platforms across the country as several states are in the heart of fall wildfire season. Local, state and federal agencies are pushing public information...
The N.C. State Fair is just days away from opening and is sure to be a treat for all ages. Whether you’re here for the thrilling rides, educational exhibits or to indulge yourself with a wide variety of delectable food options, this year’s fair will feature many of...
Since 2010, more than 42,000 wildfires have taken place in North Carolina, burning well over 400,000 acres. The approach to fighting wildland fire is anything but “one size fits all” when considering the vast geographical differences throughout the state. The...
Rangers, fishing, educational programs and the use of prescribed fire are a few things that state parks and state forests have in common in North Carolina. Because of this, not being able to easily distinguish a state forest from a state park is a trap most people...
Now that the months have turned to summer, folks are spending more time outdoors. Whether that makes you an outdoor enthusiast, or simply puts you in the yard, in front of a grill or by the pool, you may notice new tree damage and unfamiliar insects. While many people associate tree damage with weather events, […]
Spring is more than just a season between March and mid-June. It’s also a verb that means “to rise, move or leap.” These words also describe human activity as they reemerge from the winter months and cold temperatures by partaking in more outdoor activities. Plants, trees and flowers are doing the same with new growth […]
Many people associate fire with destruction, devastation and loss. Large clouds of smoke, burly orange blazes, tree limbs snapping and ash falling like snow are some of the images we’ve all seen that contribute to the “fire is bad” perception. While wildfires can reach a dangerous and destructive level quickly, not all fire is bad. […]
North Carolina Forest Service Granville-Vance Area Ranger Robert Montague is a recent recipient of the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Customer Service – one of the state’s highest honors. The service aspect of his job is exactly what drives Montague. “The service part is what is important to me,” Montague said. “I enjoy what I […]
The newest building at the N.C. State Fair now has its official name. During the 2021 fair, Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler announced the name at a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and with that announcement he surprised the man who supervised the building’s construction. The building was completed just before the 2021 fair, and Troxler revealed the name […]
Earth Day is a time for each of us to reflect on how our lives impact the planet, our environment. We can think about and commit to new clean and green practices that reduce our carbon footprints, one step at a time – and then, how that might improve our environment, the planet we have […]
Robert “Rob” Montague’s involvement in the local community and his commitment to respond to wildfire emergencies – plus many other local emergencies – are major reasons he was recently recognized as the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services 2020 Employee of the year. Montague is the North Carolina Forest Service area ranger for Granville […]
Since 2002, nearly all redbay trees have been disappearing in areas south of North Carolina. First detected in Georgia, the nonnative redbay ambrosia beetle, Xyleborus glabratus, carried these redbay trees to their dooms by introducing a deadly fungus. While the redbay ambrosia beetle is only about 1/16 inch long, it packs quite a punch against […]