This week marked six months since Hurricane Helene devastated rural communities in western North Carolina. The storm ravaged apple orchards in an area known as Apple Alley, in the southern hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Farmers fear that their greatest hurdles are yet to come, with the storm threatening their future. Growers are still waiting on federal and state aid to help them in the recovery process. One local Extension official says that farmers are growing frustrated, and he worries without direct payments arriving soon, many will give up.
Last week, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein signed a fourth spending package to help Helene survivors. That brings state relief to $1.4 billion.
Federal funding is even higher, with FEMA pledging $9 billion. State officials say damage from Helene could top $60 billion.
A congressional hearing on FEMA’s efforts was scheduled for this week but has been postponed with no new date set.
Farm Legal expert Roger McEowen discusses new dicamba regulations, compliance requirements for growers, and the evolving outlook for herbicide use.
March 17, 2026 01:52 PM
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Nebraska Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue shares the latest on the wildfires, their impact on agriculture, and the challenges farmers are facing as they navigate both natural disasters and economic uncertainty.
March 17, 2026 11:57 AM
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The action follows the March 13 ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, which upheld a district court decision denying a preliminary injunction that sought to halt the exchange.
Renowned farm broadcaster and friend of RFD-TV, Orion Samuelson, will undoubtedly be remembered for many things, but most of all, his work as a champion of America’s farmers and ranchers will define his legacy.
March 17, 2026 08:12 AM
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Spring Fieldwork Expands Amid Mixed Weather Nationwide
March 16, 2026 05:20 PM
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TYM North America unveiled two new Series 5 tractor models at the National Farm Machinery Show and announced an exciting new partnership for the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.
March 16, 2026 04:46 PM
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