Stories From 2019

Jul 2, 2019

Guide to Understanding & Evaluating Hemp Contracts in North Carolina

This guide provides a brief overview of common provisions currently offered in hemp contracts, as well as some provisions to be cautious of.

Jun 24, 2019

Mike Walden: Are ominous signs of a major economic downturn staring us in the face?

Some economists see indicators of an upcoming recession. Walden explains why this may, or may not, be the case.

Jun 24, 2019

Discover NC Dairy 360° VR Headsets Project Update

Agent training sessions were held in Mills River, Statesville and Raleigh. Brittany Whitmire (ARE) and Dr. Shannon Davidson (ANS), both NCSU Extension, partnered with the NC Pork Council and The Dairy Alliance to deliver these workshops. Results of the VR program will be shared and discussed at the NC State Extension conference in October.

Jun 24, 2019

Walden: Now is the Time to ask for a Raise

A long, slow growth of the economy is worrisome for those who wonder when it will end. Until then, NC State economist Mike Walden says, workers have the upper hand in a tight labor market.

Jun 19, 2019

Southern Farmers Reckon With Push to Raise Tobacco-Buying Age

Blake Brown, an economics professor at North Carolina State University’s cooperative extension, said T-21 marks the latest in a long line of threats that have chiseled into the once vibrant trade.

Jun 17, 2019

Coit and Post Teach First Industrial Hemp Class at NC State

The inaugural class gave students the knowledge they need to become hemp entrepreneurs.

May 31, 2019

Blockchain in the Food Supply Chain

This issue of the NC State Economist answers the question: What is blockchain and how does it affect agriculture?

May 28, 2019

Second Edition of Feitshans’ Ag Law Textbook Released

Agricultural and Agribusiness Law: An Introduction for Non-Lawyers by Emeritus Professor Ted Feitshans is now available.

May 28, 2019

Federal lawmakers propose increasing tobacco purchasing age from 18 to 21

Walden noted about 10,000 people across the state are employed in the industry, a number that has decreased as more manufacturers rely on automation.

May 14, 2019

NC State Class of 2019 graduates into strong job market

"If young people are staying in this area – the Research Triangle area of North Carolina – even better," Walden said. "We have a lower unemployment rate, we have a faster growing economy. A lot of people say we are the 'it' economy. This is the place to be."