Author: Natalie Hampton

Apr 15, 2014

N.C. State University leads research into kudzu bug host preferences

N.C. State University Extension Specialist Dominic Reisig wants to find a way to keep growers with kudzu bug problems out of the “spray continuum.” So he and his colleagues from South Carolina and Georgia will use a $168,644 U.S. Department of Agriculture Southern Regional IPM grant to find out why kudzu bugs leave their home in kudzu patches to move to soybean fields. 

Apr 14, 2014

Strawberry fields forever

North Carolina is the nation’s No. 3 strawberry producer, but many of the state’s berries grow on small plots lacking the acreage to carry out sustainable growing practices like crop rotation. That, combined with constant concerns about soil pathogens and reliance on chemicals to rid plants of ubiquitous pests like spider mites, puts immense pressure on these farms’ long-term health. 

Apr 14, 2014

Almanac Gardener begins 31st season

Almanac Gardener, a weekly horticulture program of UNC-TV, began its 31st season on April 5. The weekly show features long-time host Mike Gray and N.C. Cooperative Extension horticulture agents sharing information and tips for home gardeners. 

Apr 9, 2014

Sandhills Turfgrass Field Day is May 21

The Sandhills Research Station (SRS) Turfgrass Field Day will be held May 21 from 8-11:45 a.m. in Jackson Springs. The workshop is designed for turfgrass professionals, including golf course superintendents and landscapers, but the content can benefit anyone who manages a lawn or landscape. Register online. 

Apr 9, 2014

Study shows blueberries reduce risk of Parkinson’s

A recent study has shown that consumption of blueberries, long considered a “super food,” may protect human brain performance and reduce the risk of contracting Parkinson’s disease. In the United States, it is estimated that one million people suffer from Parkinson’s, which is the 14th leading cause of death in the country, according to the National Parkinson Foundation. 

Mar 27, 2014

Cooperative Extension’s history featured on UNC-TV

UNC-TV's North Carolina NOW has aired the first in a series of stories about the history and programs of N.C. Cooperative Extension's centennial. 

Mar 6, 2014

N.C. Cooperative Extension shines in JOE

A number of North Carolina Cooperative Extension professionals authored articles that appear in the February 2014 issue of the Journal of Extension. 

Mar 6, 2014

RAFI offers farm advocacy webinars, beginning March 11

Rural Advancement Foundation International (RAFI) is offering a series of webinars on farm advocacy for family farmers beginning March 11. The first webinar, Farm Advocacy 101, will be held on March 11, at 3:00 - 3:45 pm EST. 

Mar 6, 2014

Extension Centennial Celebrations to be held in May

Mark your calendars now to join N.C. Cooperative Extension for two centennial celebrations May 19 and 20. Extension employees, as well as county stakeholders and partners are invited to attend. 

Feb 27, 2014

Technology and jobs

Host Mary Walden asks if we are going through another workplace revolution related to the development and use of information technology. Economist Mike Walden responds to the question, “Do we know how this revolution will impact jobs?”