COVID-19
Resources & Information
NC State Extension extends research-based knowledge to all North Carolinians, helping them transform science into everyday solutions that improve their lives. That's our mission, and we'll continue to deliver on it throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
Now more than ever, there's a need for timely, trustworthy information and resources. With this site, Extension will continue to provide research-backed information from our experts and specialists to help individuals and families, farmers and agribusinesses, communities and leaders navigate this unprecedented public health event and the challenges associated with it.
Together we'll see it through, one day at a time.
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Spring Chores in the Garden 
As we navigate these challenging times some things, like gardening, can continue without fail. We don't have to practice social distancing with lettuce! It's time to get out to the garden and get ready for the growing season. Here's a checklist for the garden:
Sanitation
Clear away last year's debris. Disease can overwinter in dead plant material
Add Organic Matter
A layer of composted leaves, manure or rotted mulch can improve drainage and prevent soil compaction. Add a couple of inches of your favorite medium and till in.
Weeds
It's never too early to start controlling weeds! Pull them while they are small and before they make seeds. A few weeds can quickly overtake the garden. Keep ahead of them. Weeds are also homes for potential damaging insects
Critter Control
Get prepared to keep critters out of the garden. Raccoons, rabbits, squirrels and deer are only some of the animals that like fresh produce. Fencing, netting and live traps are just a few of the ways to keep unwanted visitors out.
Garden Tours
Walk through the garden frequently and inspect the plants. Insects are already out there and they're hungry. Catching the presence of insects early is the best way to control problems. A few insects are much easier to get rid of than an infestation!
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Planning for Canning Season
Canning season is upon us! Follow these quick tips to make sure your equipment is in check for a safe, quality product.
- Always use a pressure canner for low acid vegetables (like green beans and carrots), meats, poultry, and fish
- Check that your canner gaskets are soft and flexible. Replace them if they are hard, brittle, sticky or cracked
- Check that all pipes and vent ports with openings are clear of debris
- Boiling water bath canners are only appropriate for high acid products such as fruits, pickles, jams, and jellies.
- Boiling water canners should be deep enough to allow at least 1-2 inches of water to boil over the top of jars
- Both types of canners require a rack in the bottom to prevent scorching the product in the bottom of the jars
- Inspect your jars for knicks, cracks, and chips. Jars can weaken after repeated use.
- Only use jars specifically designed for canning
- USDA recommends using two-piece self sealing metal lids. It is recommended to throw away used flat lids. Screw bands are reusable if they are free of bends, dents, and rust.
- Only use evidence-based and up-to-date canning instructions and recipes. Contact emily_troutman@ncsu.edu, National Center for Home Food Preservation, So Easy to Preserve Canning Handbook, or a Ball Blue Book Guide to Preserving for tested recipes and procedures.
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Did you know?
Each year, Census data informs federal funding for more than 100 programs, including school lunches, highway construction, and education.
Your Response Matters
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4-H Discovery Nights - ONLINE!
4-H Discovery Nights are for all Burke County 4-H'ers and 4-H families. It is a time to gather, share and have fun. We will have a 4-H Discovery Night once a month. Topics are not limited to but may include 4-H Project areas such as: animal science, archery, butterflies & bees, STEM and science experiments, plants and gardening, sewing, vermicomposting and more. Discovery nights may also be a time to learn about 4-H Project Record books, 4-H Presentation skills, building and strengthening family communication, joining our exclusive Teen L.I.P (Leadership Internship Program), Community Service and Citizenship, and much more. Clubs can inquire about showcasing their work, sharing experiences and finding ways for our program to grow.
Register on Eventbrite at
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Take Control - Reduce Sodium Intake 
Hello Everyone! This month I would like to share information on sodium. Sodium is a mineral that is an essential nutrient and electrolyte in the body; our bodies need it for muscle contractions and nerve function. It can be found naturally in some foods; however, the problem is many of us over consume it when we choose foods that are high in sodium.
Where do you think most of the sodium consumed comes from? If you said processed foods and restaurants, you are correct! 77% to be exact, 12% comes from our salt shaker (not too bad), and 11% is naturally found in some foods. Why is it important we control our sodium intake? Sodium increases our blood pressure by holding on to excess fluid in the body. This creates an added burden on the heart which may lead to chronic conditions like heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.
This information is provided by the SNAP-Ed Steps to Health - Take Control Program and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider for advice about a specific medical condition.
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Med Instead of Meds - ONLINE
Eating the Mediterranean Way to Prevent Disease
Eating like those who live in the Mediterranean region has been shown to promote health and decrease the risk of many chronic diseases, such as some cancers, Alzheimer's, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease.
Are you interested in eating the Mediterranean way, but not sure wh
 ere to start?
This online Med Instead of Meds class series will help you Go Med by exploring 7 simple steps to eating the Med Way. Learn Med tips, life hacks, and recipes that will help you eat the Med Way every day. Great tasting and good for you! The simple, delicious, and satisfying Med Way of eating will keep you coming back for more.
Classes will meet via
Zoom 12 noon - 1pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays from April 14 - April 30. Sessions will be recorded for later viewing, if needed, but live participation is encouraged.
Zoom is accessible via computer, phone, or tablet. Visit the
Zoom Help Center for Frequently Asked Questions and information on how to get started!
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Herd Health Programs 
A well-rounded, efficient herd health program is an important and valuable management tool for all livestock producers.
Proper vaccinations for economically important livestock diseases insures producers that their herds or flocks have a high degree of protection from both outbreaks of diseases, and chronic low-level infections. There are various programs producers can implement, however consulting your local vet is a good place to start, as they can recommend a program that is comprehensive in your particular situation and help you to put together an adequate program.
Economically, vaccinating your herd can protect you from disease outbreaks, and yield protection from various reproductive and respiratory diseases. The loss of one animal can shrink profits greatly. Studies indicate that a cow/calf producer losing one calf would have to sell 4.7 calves to recover the loss.
One infected animal can spread disease among unvaccinated animals rapidly. Producers should always isolate outside animals for a time, until they have been vaccinated and determined to be free of disease.
By implementing a herd health program, using proper vaccines and administration, livestock producers can insure that their operations remain healthy, productive, and profitable.
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