NC Cooperative Extension Updates


COST-SHARE ASSISTANCE FOR ORGANIC CERTIFICATION
The NCDA&CS is offering cost-share assistance for farmers pursuing organic certification. For details and requirements, visit this link.  
SOYBEAN INSECT SCOUTING
Dr. Dominic Reisig, NCSU Extension Specialist, predicts that this year will be “wormier than the previous three”! For scouting and ID tips, check this link
OCT 2-4: WOMEN WORKING IN THE MEAT BUSINESS
This conference features expert speakers who will cover production, marketing, processing and much more. Efland, NC (Orange County). Details here.
2016 TOBACCO TOUR
July 25-27, details and registration info found here.

TOBACCO INSECT SCOUTING TIPS
Here is a short video with some great tips: https://tobacco.ces.ncsu.edu/2016/06/video-guide-to-tobacco-insect-scouting/

HOP YARD TOURS
There is growing interest in NC in raising hops, however it is a crop that presents significant challenges. NCSU is conducting research on this crop in the NC mountains, and farmers with serious interest would benefit from touring the research plots. The next tours are scheduled for Jul 12, Aug 4 and Aug 31. For more info, visit this page.
NCDA&CS FOOD SAFETY FORUM
August 16, 9 am to 12:30 pm, Expo Center, NC State Fairgrounds. Lots of great information on food safety from farm to table, details and registration info here.
SOW LIFETIME PRODUCTIVITY SYMPOSIUM
July 29, 8:30 am to 12 noon, Clinton, NC. For more info, jgwieger@ncsu.edu or mtknauer@gmail.com.
BEEF CATTLE FIELD DAY
July 23, 8:15 am to noon, Cherry Research Farm, Goldsboro. For info, call Andy Meier at 252-922-0930.
NORTHEAST AG EXPO
This year the Expo will be held on July 28th in Gates County. The program includes information on cotton, double crop soybeans, peanuts and forestry. All the details can be found at http://www.ncneagexpo.com/.
DOWNY MILDEW IN CUCURBITS
Downy mildew has been reported for the 2016 growing season. Cucurbit growers may want to implement an preventative spray program. For more information, visit 
SAFETY TIP: FARMING AND UNDERGROUND UTILITIES
Various farming activities pose the risk of damaging underground utilities. Check this link to read about a situation you definitely want to avoid (pipeline rupture). When in doubt, call 811 to get utilities located and marked.