North Carolina Small Farms Face Economic and Environmental Challenges, Seek Community-Based Solutions
Small-scale farms in Western North Carolina are confronting significant challenges, including rising operational costs, unpredictable weather patterns, and labor shortages. Farmers like Joe Sabbag of Terramonga Farm, Larry Stepp of Stepp’s Plants etc., and Eric and Nita Bunker of Queen B Farm, despite their diverse products, share a common struggle to remain viable against the backdrop of industrial agriculture. They report that the cost of essential supplies such as fertilizer, fuel, and greenhouse materials has increased substantially. Additionally, weather extremes, including excessive rain and heat, are directly impacting crop yields and animal welfare. These farms are also finding it difficult to compete on price with larger agricultural operations, leading to farmers absorbing much of the financial pressure. The work on these farms is demanding, often requiring continuous attention seven days a week, and involves a wide range of tasks from animal care to equipment maintenance.
