The Farm to School Program through the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services helps get North Carolina-grown fruits and vegetables onto school cafeteria trays across the state, and it all started with strawberries. According to Heather Lifsey, NCDA&CS marketing specialist, the program is a win-win-win – it helps schools provide fresh foods to kids, … Read more
If you were a kid in North Carolina in the last 40 years or so, you may recall a particular giant strawberry stopping by your elementary school. Her name is Suzy Strawberry and she’s been celebrating North Carolina’s strawberry industry for the last four decades. From where she came from to what she’s up to … Read more
2025 marks the 100th volume of the Agricultural Review, the free newspaper published by the N.C. Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services. To celebrate, we’re taking a journey back in time. We’re digging out some old papers, dusting off their pages and looking back at what has happened in agriculture in the last 99 years. … Read more
Although North Carolina is in the middle of winter, some of your favorite summer fruits are getting attention on farms across the state. No, that’s not a reference to chocolate-covered strawberries you may have for Valentine’s Day. (If that’s a treat for you this February, your strawberries are likely coming from Florida or California unless … Read more
Ogburn Berries & Produce is a family-owned strawberry and produce farm in Willow Spring in Johnston County. The farm is currently operated by 4th generation farmer, Sim Ogburn. The farm was bought in the early 1900s by Sim’s great-grandfather, Simeon Lloyd Ogburn, from whom Sim gets his name. The farm has remained within the family … Read more
Looking for something sweet for your special someone this Valentine’s Day? Look no further than your regional farmers market. The markets in Asheville, Colfax, Charlotte and Raleigh are open year-round, and have a great selection of special treats for your Valentine. From N.C. wines and cheeses to fresh meats and produce, you can find all … Read more
