NC Agriculture

Key Points

• North Carolina’s agriculture is a major economic driver, contributing around $111.1 billion annually.
• The state has about 42,817 farms, covering 8.1 million acres, with an average size of 190 acres.
• It leads the U.S. in sweet potato and tobacco production, and ranks high in turkeys, hogs, and other commodities.

Overview

North Carolina’s agriculture is diverse and vital, supporting a wide range of crops and livestock. It plays a significant role in the state’s economy, with a total economic impact of approximately $111.1 billion, including agriculture, agribusiness, food, forestry, and fiber. The state is home to around 42,817 farms, spanning 8.1 million acres, with an average farm size of 190 acres. North Carolina is the top U.S. producer of sweet potatoes, accounting for 54% of national production, and tobacco, and it ranks in the top five for commodities like turkeys, hogs, cucumbers, broilers, peanuts, upland cotton, bell peppers, and burley tobacco.

Recent efforts, such as the Agricultural Disaster Crop Loss Program established in 2025, highlight support for farmers facing challenges like natural disasters from 2024, with nearly $311 million allocated for recovery.

For more details, visit the North Carolina Department of Agriculture or explore farm statistics at the USDA/NASS Overview.

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Detailed Survey Note: North Carolina Agriculture Insights

North Carolina’s agricultural sector is a cornerstone of the state’s economy and culture, reflecting a rich history and ongoing innovation. This note provides a comprehensive overview, drawing from recent data and official reports, to capture the breadth and depth of its contributions as of May 2025.

Economic Impact and Industry Leadership

Research suggests that North Carolina’s agriculture, including agribusiness, food, forestry, and fiber, contributes approximately $111.1 billion annually to the state’s economy, as reported by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services North Carolina Agriculture Home. This figure, announced in May 2024 for the previous year, underscores its position as the state’s top industry. The evidence leans toward continued growth, driven by investments in research and value-added opportunities, with Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler noting its resilience NC State Ag Impact.

Farm Landscape and Demographics

The 2024 Census of Agriculture, released in February 2024, indicates there are 42,817 farms in North Carolina, a decrease of 8% since 2017 and 21% since 2002, reflecting pressures like population growth and land development Farm Flavor Census Facts. These farms cover 8.1 million acres, with an average size of 190 acres, highlighting a mix of small and large operations. The majority, 83.5% or 35,740 farms, are family-owned, with corporate farms at 8.9% (3,818) and partnerships at 6.4% (2,722), and other ownership types like estates and trusts at 1.2%.

Farmer demographics reveal an average age of 58.1 years, consistent with 2017, with 67% male (48,319) and 33% female (24,160). Notably, only 1.6% (1,182) are under 25, and 57% have a primary occupation other than farming, indicating many operate part-time. Diversity is evident with 1,891 Black farmers managing 197,898 acres across 1,262 farms, and Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin producers increasing to 1,007 from 769 in 2017. Additionally, 7,212 farmers have current or past military service, adding to the sector’s social fabric.

Production and Commodities

North Carolina’s agricultural output is diverse, with a total market value of agricultural products sold nearing $18.7 billion in 2024. Crops, including nursery and greenhouse products, are valued at over $4.7 billion, while livestock and poultry, including beef, pork, chicken, dairy, and eggs, reach nearly $14 billion. The state is a leader in several commodities, producing 54% of U.S. sweet potatoes on 87,126 acres across 528 farms, and topping the nation in tobacco production Farm Flavor Sweet Potatoes. It also ranks in the top five for turkeys, hogs and pigs, cucumbers, broilers, peanuts, upland cotton, bell peppers, and burley tobacco, as noted in agricultural overviews Farm Flavor Commodities.

Specialty production includes 346 USDA-certified organic farms, reflecting a growing interest in sustainable practices, and 22,940 new and beginning producers, up from 20,298 in 2017, indicating a dynamic entry into farming.

Challenges and Support Initiatives

The sector faces challenges, notably from natural disasters, with the Agricultural Disaster Crop Loss Program established in March 2025 to address 2024 losses from Hurricane Helene, drought, Tropical Storm Debby, and Potential Cyclone 8, with nearly $311 million allocated, including $200 million for Hurricane Helene impacts NC Agriculture Home. This program, administered by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture, aims to support recovery, highlighting the state’s commitment to its agricultural community.

Population growth, increasing by 9.5% or nearly 1 million people between 2010 and 2020, poses a threat to farmland, with potential loss of 1 million acres by 2040, as noted by state demographers NC OSBM Farmland. This underscores the need for preservation efforts, supported by recent budget investments.

Community and Innovation

Events like Small Farms Week, scheduled for May 1-3, 2025, celebrate innovation, with awards like the Small Farmer of the Year recognizing figures like Jim Hartman, a veteran beekeeper with over 30 hives, selling raw honey NC A&T Small Farms. Extension services, such as NC State Extension, provide updates on crops like peanuts and grapes, fostering community engagement and research NC State Extension.

Statistical Summary

To organize the key data, the following table summarizes critical metrics:

This table encapsulates the scale and diversity, providing a snapshot for stakeholders and researchers.

In conclusion, North Carolina’s agriculture is a dynamic and resilient sector, balancing tradition with innovation, and facing challenges with robust support systems. Its economic and cultural significance is evident, with ongoing efforts to sustain and grow its contributions into the future.

Key Points

• Agricultural science is a broad field combining biology, chemistry, and economics to improve farming.
• It includes soil, crop, and animal studies, focusing on food production and sustainability.
• Recent advances involve gene editing, drones, and climate-resilient crops, showing ongoing innovation.
• Research suggests these developments aim to address food security and environmental challenges.

Definition and Scope

Agricultural science, or agriscience, integrates various sciences to enhance farming practices. It covers soil cultivation, crop and animal production, and processing for human use. This field is crucial for ensuring food security and sustainability, involving disciplines like genetics and environmental science.

Historical Context

The field began with early experiments in the 18th century, such as fertilizer studies, and grew with the Hatch Act of 1887 in the U.S., which funded agricultural research. Over time, it has evolved to tackle modern issues like climate change.

Recent Developments

Recent innovations include the Precision Breeding Act 2023 for genetic advancements, CRISPR for crop and animal improvements, and agricultural drones for precision farming. Research also focuses on climate-resilient crops and reducing livestock methane emissions, aiming for sustainable agriculture.

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Survey Note: Comprehensive Overview of Agricultural Science

Agricultural science, also known as agriscience, is a multifaceted discipline that integrates various scientific fields to enhance and understand agricultural practices. This survey note provides a detailed exploration of its definition, scope, historical context, and recent developments, ensuring a thorough understanding for both academic and practical applications.

Definition and Core Concepts

Agricultural science is defined as a broad multidisciplinary field of biology that encompasses exact, natural, economic, and social sciences used in the practice and understanding of agriculture

. This field is essential for meeting basic human needs, beginning with the domestication and cultivation of plants and animals more than 11,500 years ago, and has since evolved to apply scientific methods to revolutionize agricultural production.

Professionals in this field are referred to as agricultural scientists or agriculturists, highlighting the scientific rigor involved. The scope extends beyond traditional farming to include related disciplines such as agronomy (research and development related to plant-based crops), geoponics (the science of cultivating the earth), and hydroponics (growing plants without soil using water-based mineral nutrient solutions in an artificial environment)

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Scope and Key Areas

The scope of agricultural science is vast, covering several key areas that are critical to modern farming:

• Soil Science: This involves studying soil physical and chemical characteristics, fertility, and their effects on crop production. It ensures optimal conditions for plant growth and addresses issues like erosion and nutrient management

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• Crop Science: This area focuses on plant physiology, genetics, nutrition, and methods to maximize sustained yield. It includes satellite-based micro-management of inputs to enhance productivity

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• Animal Science: Concentrating on animal nutrition, breeding, and production, this field aims to ensure efficient and sustainable livestock farming, addressing welfare and productivity

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• Agricultural Engineering: This involves developing technologies for precision agriculture, mechanization, and efficient farming practices, such as the use of drones and robotics .
• Environmental Science: This aspect addresses the environmental impact of agriculture, focusing on sustainability, climate resilience, and resource management, including carbon sequestration and rural biodiversity

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These areas collectively ensure that agricultural science can meet the demands of a growing global population while minimizing environmental impact.

Historical Context and Evolution

The historical development of agricultural science is marked by significant milestones that have shaped its current form. Early knowledge was often transmitted verbally, with some preserved in religious commandments, but academic agriculture began with Justus von Liebig’s work in 1840, “Die organische Chemie in ihrer Anwendung auf Agrikulturchemie und Physiologie”

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In the United States, a scientific revolution in agriculture began with the Hatch Act of 1887, driven by farmers’ interest in understanding artificial fertilizers, and was supported by subsequent legislation like the Morrill Act (1862) for agricultural colleges and the Smith–Lever Act (1914) for teaching improved practices

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Recent Developments and Innovations

Recent developments in agricultural science reflect its dynamic nature, driven by technological advancements and the need for sustainable practices. The following table summarizes key innovations as of May 2025, based on current research and policy shifts:

These developments underscore the field’s focus on addressing contemporary challenges such as climate change, food security, and environmental sustainability. For instance, the Precision Breeding Act 2023 is seen as a historic moment for plant science, with secondary legislation expected by March 2025 for plants and ongoing discussions for farmed animals

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Importance and Impact

Agricultural science is vital for ensuring food security and improving agricultural productivity. It has enabled significant increases in crop and animal yields, reduced losses from diseases, pests, and spoilage, and improved processing methods. The evidence leans toward its role in supporting a growing global population, with advanced technologies allowing one U.S. farmer to produce food for over 100 people, as noted in recent studies

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Educational and Career Pathways

For those interested in pursuing agricultural science, programs like the MSc by Research in Agricultural Science and Technology at the University of Lincoln offer advanced research opportunities in multidisciplinary areas such as crop phenotyping, precision agriculture, and sustainable agroforestry systems . Graduates are well-placed for careers in academia, research organizations, the agri-food industry, and non-governmental organizations focused on land use and conservation.

Conclusion

In summary, agricultural science is a dynamic field that combines traditional farming knowledge with cutting-edge scientific and technological innovations. Its scope spans soil management, crop and animal production, and environmental sustainability, with recent developments like gene editing and AI-driven breeding highlighting its adaptability to modern challenges. As of May 2025, it continues to play a crucial role in ensuring food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices, making it an essential area for future research and application.

Key Points

• An agriculture lawyer specializes in laws affecting farming and ranching, handling issues like land use, water rights, and environmental regulations.
• They assist farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses with legal compliance, contracts, and disputes.
• Becoming one typically requires a law degree and passing a bar exam, with a background in agriculture being beneficial.
• The role is crucial due to the highly regulated nature of agriculture, with strong job prospects in the field.

What is an Agriculture Lawyer?

An agriculture lawyer is a legal professional who focuses on the laws and regulations impacting the agricultural industry. They provide advice and representation on matters such as land use, water rights, environmental compliance, labor laws, and business structures for farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses. This role is essential given the complex regulatory environment of agriculture, ensuring clients adhere to federal and state laws while protecting their business interests.

Education and Training

To become an agriculture lawyer, one generally needs a bachelor’s degree, followed by a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from a law school. They must then pass the bar exam in the state or country where they wish to practice. In the UK, an additional step is passing the Bar Professional Training Course. A passion for or background in agriculture can be advantageous, helping lawyers understand industry-specific challenges.

Job Outlook and Salary

The demand for agriculture lawyers is strong, with great opportunities expected over the next five years due to the industry’s regulatory complexity. In the US, salaries average around $100,626 annually, ranging from $79,000 to $103,000 for most, with top earners making up to $131,000. In Texas, the average is slightly lower at $93,749 per year. In the UK, entry-level salaries start at £35,000, with experienced lawyers earning up to £60,000, and top barristers potentially reaching £750,000.

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Survey Note: Comprehensive Overview of Agriculture Lawyers

Agriculture lawyers play a vital role in navigating the legal complexities of the farming and ranching industries, which are among the most regulated sectors globally. This note provides a detailed examination of their roles, responsibilities, educational requirements, and career prospects, drawing from authoritative sources to ensure a thorough understanding.

Role and Responsibilities

Agriculture lawyers specialize in legal issues affecting agricultural operations, serving clients such as farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses. Their work encompasses a broad spectrum of legal areas, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the industry. Key responsibilities include:

• Business and Legal Structures: They assist agricultural entities in establishing corporations, partnerships, or proprietorships, ensuring compliance with relevant laws. This includes drafting and reviewing contracts for sales, leases, and partnerships, as highlighted by FindLaw – What Is Agriculture Law?.
• Land and Property Law: Agriculture lawyers advise on land use, zoning, eminent domain, and real estate transactions. They help protect farms from urban sprawl and address landowner rights, as noted in the career profile from AgCareers.com – Agricultural Lawyer Career Profile.
• Water Rights: Given the critical importance of water for farming, they provide guidance on water rights and usage, ensuring legal access and compliance with regulations.
• Environmental Regulations: They ensure compliance with environmental laws related to pesticide use, seed issues, and other impacts, balancing these against landowner rights. This is particularly emphasized in the UK context by DeLacyExecutive.co.uk – Agricultural Lawyer Career Profile.
• Labor and Employment Law: They offer expertise on labor laws, employment contracts, and workplace safety, crucial for managing agricultural labor forces.
• Estate Planning and Succession: Agriculture lawyers assist with succession planning for family farms, ensuring smooth ownership transitions and addressing issues like marriage or divorce affecting farm operations, as detailed in the DeLacyExecutive profile.
• Regulatory Compliance: They help obtain necessary licenses and permits, ensuring adherence to federal and state regulations overseen by agencies like the USDA and FDA, as noted by FindLaw.
• Intellectual Property: They handle patents, copyrights, and other intellectual property issues, particularly relevant for innovations like GMOs, which are part of the broader agricultural legal landscape according to FindLaw.
• Dispute Resolution: They represent clients in disputes, litigation, or negotiations, addressing issues like GMO debates, pesticide bans, and appeals of citations, as mentioned in the FindLaw article.

Their work often involves building relationships with farmers, extension staff, and scientists, collaborating with external organizations, and staying updated on new regulations to provide accurate advice. This collaborative approach is crucial for understanding industry-specific solutions and preventing fraud in product packaging and labeling, as outlined in the AgCareers.com profile.

Educational Requirements and Skills

Becoming an agriculture lawyer requires a structured educational path and specific skills. The typical journey includes:

• Education: A bachelor’s degree is required, preferably in a related field like agriculture or law, followed by a Juris Doctor (JD) degree. In the UK, an alternative path is a graduate diploma of law with an agriculture-related undergraduate degree, followed by passing the Bar Professional Training Course, as detailed by DeLacyExecutive.
• Bar Exam: Candidates must pass the bar exam in the state or country where they wish to practice, ensuring they are licensed to provide legal services.
• Recommended Background: A passion for or background in agriculture is beneficial, enhancing understanding of industry challenges. Recommended high school courses include agricultural education, English, social science, public speaking, and debate, as suggested by AgCareers.com.

Key skills for success include strong communication, enthusiasm, self-motivation, flexibility with schedules, and knowledge of agriculture laws. They must be logical thinkers with sound decision-making abilities, attention to detail, and persuasive skills, as outlined by DeLacyExecutive.

Work Environment and Career Prospects

Agriculture lawyers can work independently, for law firms specializing in agricultural law, or for organizations and companies within the sector. They have the flexibility to practice anywhere, given the regional variations in agricultural needs, as noted by AgCareers.com. Typical employers in the UK include England bar associations, the Agricultural Law Association, the Environmental Law Association, consultant agencies, and self-employment, according to DeLacyExecutive.

The career outlook is promising, with great opportunities expected over the next five years due to the highly regulated nature of agriculture and the complexity of legal issues. This is supported by the AgCareers.com profile, which highlights the diversity and profitability strategies in farming, such as corn mazes and hunting leases, necessitating legal expertise.

Salary Insights

Salary varies by location and experience. In the US, as of January 2025, the average annual pay is $100,626, with a range from $79,000 to $103,000 for most practitioners, and top earners making up to $131,000, according to ZipRecruiter – Salary: Agricultural Lawyer. In Texas, the average is slightly lower at $93,749 per year, as per ZipRecruiter – Salary: Agricultural Lawyer in Texas. In the UK, entry-level salaries start at £35,000, experienced lawyers can earn up to £60,000, and top barristers may reach £750,000, as detailed by DeLacyExecutive.

Professional Organizations and Resources

Agriculture lawyers can benefit from joining professional organizations such as the American Bar Association, American Land Title Association, The Food and Drug Law Institute, and the National Association of Estate Planners and Councils, as listed by AgCareers.com. These organizations provide networking opportunities, continuing education, and resources for staying updated on legal developments.

Conclusion

Agriculture lawyers are indispensable in navigating the legal landscape of the agricultural industry, addressing a wide range of issues from regulatory compliance to dispute resolution. Their role is critical for ensuring the sustainability and legality of farming operations, with strong career prospects and varying salary levels depending on location and experience. This comprehensive overview underscores their importance and the educational and skill requirements necessary for success in this field.