Agriculture

North Carolina produces about one in five Christmas trees sold in the U.S., including the 20-foot Fraser fir chosen to grace the White House this year. Local sellers say this season’s crop is good despite the impact of Helene. But some in the industry worry about Christmases yet to come.

North Carolina ranks second in the nation in real tree production. It’s a key economic driver in the state’s mountain counties.

The event features Black farmers across the state selling fresh produce directly to those in the east Greensboro community.

On Carolina Curious, WFDD listener Julie Mullis wonders why more isn't being done to control invasive trees in the Piedmont and High Country.

Wilkesboro town officials say Tyson Foods Inc. has laid off more than 100 employees at its Wilkesboro processing plant. Tyson, the largest employer in Wilkes County, announced in a prepared statement that they are reducing the number of second-shift employees due to lower customer demand.