New grazing management techniques allow pasture to provide the majority of forage and significantly reduce the need for purchased concentrates and stored forages. This approach has been shown to greatly reduce feed costs. Evaluate and disseminate the results among farmers, farm advisors, service industry personnel, students and others. The CEFS Farming Systems Unit provides an appropriate medium to study low-cost dairy systems and to promote their adoption in the region. A collective vision of 100 or more new dairy farms in eastern North Carolina is possible.
Organic production represents the largest growth segment nationwide in agriculture today.
Consumer demand for organic food has increased the need for more research and education in this area. Because of flooding due to Hurricanes Fran and Floyd, the Organic Unit was moved to higher ground in 1999, and the certification process initiated again. The site is used for research, demonstrations, and education, and serves as a focal point for student and extension agent training. The Organic Systems Unit hosts annual Field Days for farmers and other agricultural professionals. Demand by organic retailers is outstripping North Carolina production of organic products.