In the wake of Hurricane Helene, North Carolina’s agricultural community has faced substantial challenges. High winds, heavy rainfall, and flooding have disrupted farming operations across the western part of the state, leaving many farmers struggling to recover. North Carolina’s farms and local communities, rely on a fragile balance between resources, weather, and hard work. Hurricane Helene upset this balance; damaging barns, tearing down fencing, and destroying grazing fields. Recognizing the pressing needs of affected farmers, many organizations have taken swift action to aid in recovery, with a focus on fencing and hay distribution—two essentials for livestock farmers impacted by the storm.

Emergency Fencing Support

One of the immediate problems livestock farmers faced after the hurricane was the loss of fencing. Strong winds and raging water toppled fences, leaving animals vulnerable to wandering off property or even injury. For farmers having a secure fence in place is crucial to animal safety. Volunteers and Extension agents began organizing fencing support almost immediately after the storm passed. Working with local and state partners, they set up distribution sites where farmers could access essential fencing materials.Volunteers and Extension agents joined forces to coordinate the efforts, providing not only materials but also on-site assistance with fence rebuilding. Thanks to the Extension’s partnerships with fencing suppliers and donations from the farming community, the Extension team distributed thousands of feet of fencing and materials. Extension agents and local volunteers worked together to identify farms with the most urgent needs, prioritizing areas with high livestock populations and farms that were hardest hit.

Hay Distribution for Livestock

Hay distribution has been another critical area of support. Flooded pastures mean limited access to grass for livestock, leaving farmers in immediate need of hay to feed their animals. N.C. Cooperative Extension has stepped up to address this shortage, organizing hay distribution to keep livestock fed and farmers’ costs down.In the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Extension set up distribution points for hay donations, collaborating with farmers from neighboring states who donated their hay. The initial efforts were focused on farms in the most damaged areas, with agents visiting farms to assess needs.

Long-term Hay Distribution Plan

With pastures still recovering, hay distribution efforts will continue through the winter. The Extension is coordinating a structured, ongoing support system to prevent hay shortages and allow farmers to make it through the cold season. Plans are in place for regular hay drop-offs at central locations. As winter progresses, Extension is working closely with county-level agents to monitor pasture recovery and adjust the amount of hay distributed.

Resources

Contact your local Farm Service Agency Office to Sign-Up for programs to help you with recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene.

130 Ammons Drive Morganton, NC 28655

Phone: (828) 439-9727 ext. 2

Stay-Tuff fencing has a grant that is currently open and must be submitted by November 15th. Filling out the applican DOES NOT gurantee that you will be awarded the grant. Click the application link below for more information.

Stay-Tuff Fencing Application (Due November 15th)

Please call the Hurricane Helene crisis hotline if you need additional emergency help or crisis clean-up the phone number is (844) 965-1386.

The McDowell Agriculture Center will have hay throughout the winter months for those in need. Please call the N.C. Cooperative Extension, McDowell County Center to schedule a time for pick-up. Call the office at (828) 652-8104.