Industry background
Agriculture is a cornerstone of Wilson County's economy and way of life. Ranked among North Carolina's leading agricultural counties, Wilson County is currently 2nd in crop production and 40th in livestock production statewide. While our livestock numbers may be smaller than some neighboring counties, our impact is significant through strong youth livestock programs and a dedicated community of producers.
About Us
The Livestock Agent serves as a local resource for livestock producers, youth exhibitors, and community members by providing research-based education and support related to animal agriculture. Through educational programs, farm visits, workshops, and one-on-one assistance, the Livestock Agent helps connect individuals with the latest information and best management practices for livestock production.
Areas of support may include, but are not limited to beef cattle, equine, sheep, goats, swine, poultry, pasture management, animal health, youth livestock projects, and agricultural leadership development. The goal is to help producers improve profitability and sustainability while fostering the next generation of agricultural leaders through youth programs and hands-on learning opportunities.
Pasture & Grazing Assistance
We can provide weed identification, information on pasture layout, rotation recommendations, forage selection, planting, pasture establishment, and more.
Soil Testing
We can assist producers with collecting and submitting soil samples for pastures and hay fields through the NC Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (NCDA&CS). We are happy to walk you through the process, answer questions, and help interpret your results so you can confidently manage future soil testing on your operation. Soil sample boxes and forms are available at our office. Soil testing is free from April through November and $4 per sample from December through March.
Forage & Feed Testing
Another service through NCDA&CS that Extension helps with is testing of hay, fresh forage, or feed (not a commercially made feed) for nutritional analysis. Testing is $10/sample.
Animal Husbandry
Animal husbandry focuses on the proper care and management of livestock. We can assist with topics such as nutrition, health, breeding, housing, and daily management to help animals remain productive and healthy.
Equipment Available
We have numerous pieces of equipment available and ready for you to use.
- Grain Drill
- Priefert S04 Squeeze Chute
- Portable Livestock Scales
- Clippers
- Small Animal Bander
4-H Youth Livestock
Our 4-H Youth Livestock Program is designed to educate, inspire, and prepare young people for success in the livestock industry. Through hands-on learning experiences, youth develop valuable life skills, agricultural knowledge, and leadership abilities. Opportunities include the Wilson County 4-H Livestock Show & Sale, 4-H Poultry Show & Sale, 4-H Livestock Judging & Skillathon Team, and 4-H Poultry Judging & Avian Bowl Team.
For more information contact Hailee Whitehurst Extension Agent, Livestock at (252) 237-0111 or hbwhiteh@ncsu.edu
