Governor Josh Stein attended the 90th annual convention of the North Carolina Farm Bureau, highlighting the importance of agriculture to the state’s economy and heritage. During his remarks, Governor Stein said, “Agriculture and North Carolina’s hardworking farmers are critical to our economic strength as a state. This past year has brought real hardships from tariffs – from rising production costs to the lowest row crop prices we’ve seen in more than a decade. I’m committed to working alongside our farmers to strengthen this industry, protect our farmland, and ensure that agriculture remains central to North Carolina’s future.”
The North Carolina Farm Bureau, which began in 1936, is entering its 90th year supporting over 650,000 member families. The organization has played a role in making North Carolina a leading producer of sweet potatoes, tobacco, turkeys, cucumbers, hogs, broilers, and Christmas trees.
Agriculture remains the top industry in North Carolina. In response to ongoing challenges such as increased costs and changes in export conditions, Governor Stein has taken steps to support farmers. This year he signed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2025. The act established the Agricultural Disaster Crop Loss Program for those with verified losses due to declared agricultural disasters. Additional legislation has brought total state assistance for farmers above $478 million.
While visiting the Triad region, Governor Stein also toured Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest North Carolina. He volunteered at the facility and presented a $2.185 million check from the State of North Carolina intended to help fight hunger.
Eric Aft, Chief Executive Officer for Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest North Carolina said: “Second Harvest appreciates this significant investment from Governor Stein and the State of North Carolina,’’ adding that “These funds will be an integral part of our work to address the needs of our residents impacted by the federal government shutdown and ensure that our robust response to the historic demand for food assistance remains strong.”
