McDowell County farmers impacted by Hurricane Helene will soon have a renewed opportunity to rejuvenate their lands through the McDowell Fall Cover Crop Restoration Program. Beginning September 26 applications open for this limited-time program is designed to provide essential materials—cover crop seed, fertilizer, and agricultural lime—to eligible local producers.

What’s Offered

Participants selected in the program will receive:

• Cover crop seed suited for local conditions

• Fertilizer to restore depleted nutrients

• Agricultural lime to adjust soil pH and promote healthy soil chemistry

These materials are provided at no cost to help restore soil health, reduce erosion, and rebuild productive farmland.

Who Is Eligible

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be a farmer or landowner in McDowell County

• Demonstrate that their land was affected by Hurricane Helene (erosion, nutrient loss, damage to soil structure, etc.)

• Submit a completed application during the September 26 – October 10 application window

Key Requirements

Once an applicant is selected:

• They must pick up their materials (seed, fertilizer, and lime) within two weeks of being notified.

• If materials are not collected in that timeframe, the offer may be forfeited so that resources can be reallocated.

Why This Matters

Cover crops are essential tools in sustainable agriculture. They help:

• Prevent soil erosion

• Improve soil organic matter and structure

• Boost nutrient cycling, reducing the need for synthetic inputs

• Suppress weeds and help with moisture retention

• Support overall long-term farm resilience following storm damage

How to Apply

Applications will be available beginning September 26 at the N.C. Cooperative Extension, McDowell County Center and via Google Forms. The deadline to submit is October 10. Selections will be based on the level of storm impact and need.

For more information or assistance completing the application, contact N.C. Cooperative Extension, McDowell County Center at (828) 652-8104.