Randolph County Cooperative Extension

06/20/2026

🌱 Supporting local farms, homesteads, and livestock owners just got a little easier!

Starting or growing an agricultural operation comes with plenty of expenses. That's why we're excited to offer our Rental Equipment Program—giving you access to useful equipment without the commitment of purchasing it yourself.

Whether you need a livestock trailer, a BCS walk-behind tractor, squeeze chute or other equipment for a specific project, renting can be a cost-effective solution.

Why let equipment sit unused most of the year when you can rent it only when you need it?

Explore the available equipment and rental information here:
https://randolph.ces.ncsu.edu/randolph-county-rental-equipment/

We're proud to provide resources that help make agriculture more accessible for everyone in our community!

06/19/2026

Much needed rain has been falling over our area. How much have you gotten?

06/18/2026

🎙️🌿 We’re pressing pause for the summer…

After a great run of episodes, Under The Green is taking a short summer break ☀️

We’ll be back in late August with more conversations, more behind-the-scenes moments, and more of the people and programs that make the Randolph County Agricultural Center what it is.

In the meantime, it’s the perfect chance to catch up on any episodes you may have missed 👀

🎧 Listen anytime on Apple, Spotify, or here:
https://underthegreenrandolphcounty.buzzsprout.com

Thanks for listening—and we’ll see you soon 🌱

06/18/2026

🍆 Summer Harvest Series: Eggplant! 🍆
Next up in our summer garden check-in: eggplants! Knowing exactly when to pick these glossy beauties ensures they stay tender, flavorful, and completely bitter-free.

Here is your quick guide to harvesting the perfect eggplant:

📏 The Golden Rule: Look for a length of 8 to 10 inches and a base diameter of at least 3 inches.

✨ Check the Gloss: Size isn't the only indicator! A perfectly ripe eggplant should have a beautiful, shiny finish. If it starts looking dull, it’s overripe and may have tough skin and bitter seeds.

✂️ Pro Tip: Just like cucumbers, always use pruning shears or a sharp knife to cut the eggplant from the plant. Trying to pull them off can damage the main vine.

What's your favorite way to cook fresh eggplant? Let us know in the comments! 🍽️

06/16/2026

Randolph County 4-H Youth Livestock Team attended another great clinic today in Raleigh to learn about livestock judging! They learned what to look for and how to go about placing a class of four hogs, beef cattle, sheep and goats.

06/16/2026

📝 Livestock producers...please take a few minutes to complete this survey for NCSU:

Please provide feedback on how recent drought conditions have affected your livestock operations, particularly concerning hay yield and forage availability.

06/16/2026

There’s a lot happening at Extension right now 👀

From youth programs and gardening classes to tech skills and more, we’ve got something for all ages and interests — and spots are filling fast.

Take a look at what’s coming up and find your next opportunity to learn, grow, and get involved 🌱

👉 See what’s coming up & save your spot:
go.ncsu.edu/randolphevents

06/16/2026

As our drought continues, so do worries about where the feed will come from to get cows through to better times. The drought of 2026 started in the fall of 2025, and there has been very little rain since that time. Many areas are 15 to 20 inches behind on rain for the year!
Continue reading here:

As our drought continues, so do worries about where the feed will come from to get cows through to better times. The drought of 2026 started in the fall of 2025, and there has been very little rain…

06/15/2026

Randolph County 4-H Youth Livestock Team had their first outing today at the Skillathon Clinic at NC State! They are learning all about livestock breeds, feeds, tools, meat cuts, husbandry, and more! In the photos shown, they are learning how to ultrasound sheep! 🐑
These youth will compete at the state 4-H contest in August for livestock judging, skillathon and quiz bowl!
Randolph County 4-H