By Michael O. Fine

Rowan Cooperative Extension

Calling all land managers, agricultural enthusiasts, farmers, ranchers and backyard gardeners: NC Agritunity, an annual educational conference and trade show, is back and better than ever.

Q: What is NC Agritunity?

A: NC Agritunity is a one-day, free conference and trade show hosted by a regional team of N.C. Cooperative Extension Agents. These agents work with Extension specialists and farmers to bring together a consolidated educational platform in which residents of the foothills and Piedmont regions of N.C. can receive research-based and applied information to help them with their own agricultural endeavors.

Q: When? And where is it located?

A: NC Agritunity will be held on Feb. 8 from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. (see agenda for session times). The location will be at the N.C. Cooperative Extension Office in Statesville. The address is 444 Bristol Drive, Statesville.

Q: Will there be good food for purchase?

A: Yes. Food will be available on-site thanks to Alex Silliman, West Rowan FFA Alumni Association, who will be cooking his famous smoked BBQ the day of the event.

Q: Will the information be valuable to me if I’m not a commercial farmer?

A: Absolutely. Each year, the team of agents works to critique and refine the educational topics covered. This year, an intentional effort has been made to focus on topics that can be applied across multiple agricultural scales, from backyard hobbyists and small market growers to larger operations looking to diversify into new markets.

Q: What else can I expect from this event?

A: Aside from the educational tracks offered, attendees will benefit from the agricultural trade/vendor showroom as well as the networking opportunity among neighboring farmers in adjacent counties.

For questions, or special accommodations, please call the Iredell Extension Office at 704-873-0507 or check out the website https://iredell.ces.ncsu.edu/nc-agritunity-2/