By Shelby Carroll
N.C. Cooperative Extension

Hurricane Helene has significantly impacted agriculture in western North Carolina, causing extensive damage to various farms, including Christmas trees, livestock and row crops. North Carolina is the second-largest Christmas tree producer in the U.S., with most farms located in the affected areas of western North Carolina. Damage to these farms may affect holiday supply and prices, but local sales can support farmers during this challenging time​.

Flooding from the hurricane left many fields with eroded soil and lots of clean up, and farmers are advised to conduct soil testing to manage nutrient loss and possible contamination. The North Carolina Department of Agriculture is recommending that farmers carefully document recovery costs and consider soil conservation measures.

The North Carolina Cooperative Extension is actively supporting farmers impacted by Hurricane Helene in western North Carolina through a variety of recovery solutions such as:

1. Soil and crop management: Extension is advising farmers on soil recovery methods, such as removing debris, assessing nutrient loss and testing soil fertility. Additionally, farmers are encouraged to keep detailed records of expenses related to repairs and recovery for insurance claims and government assistance​.
   
2. Livestock support: Extension offices are coordinating relief efforts for livestock farmers by providing access to clean feed and advising on animal health. The floodwaters left many pastures unusable, which disrupted feed for animals. Livestock experts from extension are advising farmers on the disposal of any feed affected by floodwaters and monitoring livestock health for issues like infections​
   
3. Community and financial support: Local extension agriculture centers are helping connect farmers with financial resources, including USDA disaster assistance programs, and organizing donation drives for supplies. Farmers are encouraged to seek aid for specific needs, such as infrastructure repair, which may be covered under certain programs​.

By addressing both immediate and long-term recovery, the North Carolina Cooperative Extension plays a crucial role in helping western North Carolina’s agricultural community bounce back from Hurricane Helene’s severe impacts. If you are interested in donating any supplies please contact your local extension office or go to https://ncdisaster.ces.ncsu.edu/.

Shelby Carroll is agriculture and natural resources agent with the Rowan County Extension.