2012

Aug 30, 2012

Is lending improving?

A common complaint in today’s economy is that banks have money, but they’re just not loaning it. Could this be a reason behind our sputtering economy? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden weighs in. 

Aug 29, 2012

Cotton Field Day is Sept. 12

N.C. State University’s Cotton Field Day will take place Sept. 12 at the Upper Coastal Plain Research Station in Rocky Mount. The bi-annual event, co-sponsored by the N.C. Cotton Producers Association, will focus on latest research into cotton tillage, variety trials, disease and insect management and rotational considerations. 

Aug 29, 2012

Initiative to support modernization of field research launched to honor Dr. David Smith

Smith, CALS associate dean and director of the N.C. Agricultural Research Service, retired September 1 after 31 years of service to the College and the university. 

Aug 29, 2012

Leading or lagging?

After years of having a relatively low unemployment rate, North Carolina's rate ballooned to more than 11 percent -- much above the national average. Today it’s still over 9 percent. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden considers whether this means North Carolina's best days are over. 

Aug 28, 2012

Report: Animal production can grow sustainably

As the world’s middle class nearly triples in number, demand for meat, dairy products and eggs is expected to rise by as much as 100 percent by 2050. The question is, can agricultural production meet that demand without causing extensive environmental damage? 

Aug 28, 2012

Which states are under water?

When it comes to home mortgages, a so-called "underwater" homeowner is one who owes more on his or her mortgage than the home is worth. Underwater mortgages have been a particular problem in recent years. Where is the situation most severe? N.C. State University economist Mike Walden answers. 

Aug 27, 2012

Cattlemen recognize Franklin livestock agent

Martha Leonard Mobley, agriculture agent for N.C. Cooperative Extension in Franklin County, was recently honored for her 24 years of service by the Franklin County Cattlemen’s Association. 

Aug 27, 2012

The tax-free holiday

Many states, including North Carolina, now have a limited number of days where certain retail purchases will not be subject to a sales tax. N.C. State University economist Mike Walden outlines the impact of these so-called tax-free holidays. 

Aug 26, 2012

New and better ways

In a milestone year, Bob Patterson reflects on the differences made by the land-grants through ag education — yesterday, today and tomorrow. 

Aug 26, 2012

From the Morrill Act, research; from research, prosperity

The Morrill Act helped make publicly funded research possible, and that research ushered in an era of American prosperity. For that reason, retiring CALS research director and associate dean Dr. David Smith calls the act "the single most impactful economic development legislation in the history of this country."