Author: Kristin Sargent

Dec 2, 2021

Hemp: North Carolina’s Budding Industry

The hemp industry is budding in North Carolina but it hasn’t exactly been smooth sailing. We talk with Extension specialist David Suchoff about what’s been accomplished and what we’ve learned so far. 

Dec 1, 2021

How to Produce a Grand Champion Christmas Tree

Over the years, the White House has selected a North Carolina Fraser fir for its annual Christmas Tree. But what does it take to produce a Grand Champion Christmas Tree? The secret comes from NC State. 

Oct 20, 2021

A Passion for Plants and a Desire to Help Farmers

An early passion for plants set the stage for Andrew Scruggs’ career. The CALS alumnus and Bayer Crop Science employee works to test crop varieties and bring the best to farmers across the Carolinas and Tennessee. 

Oct 13, 2021

The Art of Blue Ribbon Produce: Putting Your Best Plate Forward

Quality, consistency, and presentation are the three most important factors for contestants hoping to take home an award for their produce at the North Carolina State Fair’s horticulture competition. 

Aug 27, 2021

Horticulture’s Ivy Tapped to Lead Ag Institute

Lee Ivy, a senior lecturer at NC State and former community college professor, brings a wealth of experiences to his new role as director of NC State’s Agricultural Institute. 

Aug 6, 2021

A Necessary Network for Local Foods

During the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the North Carolina Local Food Council proved communication and collaboration were key in helping the state’s local food systems survive and thrive. 

Feb 8, 2021

CEFS’ Creamer Retires After 25 Years of Service

For more than two decades, Nancy Creamer has been dedicated to sustainable agriculture and equitable food systems in North Carolina. She recently retired from the Center for Environmental Farming Systems. 

Jan 18, 2021

PSI Profile: Geoff Bock, Interim Director of Operations

One of the first people tapped with turning the N.C. Plant Sciences Initiative vision into a reality was CALS alumnus Geoff Bock. Hired in 2016 as the project manager, Bock now also serves as the interim director of operations. 

Dec 11, 2020

CALS’ Quick Guide for the Holidays

You’re four steps away from a brighter, better-tasting season. 

Nov 20, 2020

Pi Alpha Xi Finds Success with Online Plant Sale

Despite cancelling their spring plant sale due to COVID-19, Pi Alpha Xi was determined to have their fall sale. With the help of N.C. Cooperative Extension’s Debbie Roos, the student fraternity moved their sale online.