NC Cooperative Extension - New Hanover County Center and Arboretum

06/12/2026

After 20 years of dedicated work within Therapeutic Horticulture here at the New Hanover County office, our Therapeutic Horticulture Agent is taking on a new adventure as the County Extension Director for Mecklenburg County.

Read this latest article for a look back at her incredible journey, and join us in wishing her the absolute best in her new role!

https://newhanover.ces.ncsu.edu/news/how-twenty-years-in-new-hanovers-living-laboratory-shaped-my-journey/

06/11/2026

Don't let mosquitoes ruin your backyard fun this summer!

With mosquito season officially here, we want to help you enjoy your yard safely. One of the easiest ways to help manage mosquitoes while also protecting our pollinators and other insects is tackling them with a DIY larval trap!

Check out our step-by-step guide for creating your own trap at home!

Get the step-by-step guide: https://newhanover.ces.ncsu.edu/environment-natural-resources/managingmosquitos/

Explore NHC Mosquito Control Resources: https://www.nhcgov.com/674/Mosquito-Control

06/10/2026

What an amazing turnout! 🌱

​Thank you to everyone who joined us to learn about the beauty and benefits of native plants at our Native Plant Symposium. In partnership with the Southeast Chapter of the Native Plant Society, we came together to teach residents about the advantages of choosing native species, how to identify and manage invasive plants, and how to use the Coastal Landscapes Initiative to build a thriving native landscape at home.

​A special thank you to our incredible speakers, Duane Truscott and Roger Shew, as well as our Director, Amy Mead, for sharing their time and expertise with our community!

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06/09/2026

Long-standing 4-H volunteer Leslie Dill has been selected as our June Volunteer of the Month! 🍀

​As the leader of the Coastal Clovers 4-H Club, Leslie has been guiding our youngest members ever since her eldest daughter turned 5. Inspired by her own time as a 4-H youth, she strives to pass on the same confidence, lifelong friendships, and curiosity to the next generation.
​Thank you for your continued dedication to this program, Leslie!

​👉 Show Leslie some love! Drop a clover 🍀 in the comments to congratulate her on her amazing work

06/08/2026

☀️ 4-H Summer Fun is just around the corner, and we hope you are as excited as we are!

As a quick reminder, registration and payment for our summer programs close in exactly one week. To secure your child's spot, please make sure you have completed the following steps:

1. Enroll or update your family's information in 4-H Online.

2. Register for your selected summer camps.

3. Submit your payment at the NHC Extension & Arboretum office.

Don't let the deadline slip by—complete your registration today. We can't wait to see you soon for an incredible summer!

06/08/2026

The gift shop is officially back open!

We’ve missed you! 👋✨

​While the Hutaff Building was undergoing renovations, our gift shop doors were temporarily closed—but we are officially BACK OPEN and so excited to welcome you back to the Arboretum Gift Shop! 🌿🏡

​Come on by to check out our fresh look and explore some incredible new local art we can’t wait to share with you. 🎨🍂

​📍 Where to find us: 6206 Oleander Drive

🕒 Hours: Monday – Friday, 10 AM – 4 PM

​See you soon! 👇 Tag a friend you want to bring along for a stroll and some shopping!

06/05/2026

Thank you to all the volunteers who came out for the blueberry gleaning at the NC State Horticultural Research Station! 🫐

This Extension tradition has been a great opportunity for our staff and volunteers to help residents in the region access local, fresh produce.

06/05/2026

Did you know that 4-H connects all New Hanover County schools to local agriculture through our embryology program? Read about the impact and importance of this program for an urban community like ours in Cecilia's latest article!

Did you know that the poultry industry is the number one agricultural commodity in North Carolina? This means that poultry production is extremely important for our community to learn about!As part…

06/04/2026

When choosing trees for your yard, it’s easy to focus just on color and beauty—but considering location, soil health, and growth habits is what makes them thrive long-term! 🌳✨

​Recently, our County Extension Director and certified arborist, Amy Mead, shared expert tips on selecting the right tree during our Backyard Sustainability Series.

​Here are a few key takeaways Amy shared to guide residents toward sustainable choices:

🌱 Soil Resilience: Understanding which species can actually handle harsh coastal soils.

🏡 Strategic Placement: Determining the absolute best location on your property for long-term growth.

💧 Water Consumption: Balancing your landscape’s water needs and helping reduce stormwater runoff.

​Want to make sure you’re picking the perfect tree for your space?

​📞 Reach out to our Plant Clinic with your landscaping questions!

🎟️ Check our "Events" highlight to stay up-to-date on all of our upcoming classes.

06/03/2026

Are you a passionate educator ready to make a positive impact? We’re looking for our next Family and Consumer Sciences Agent to champion health and wellness in our community! 🌟

​In this role, you’ll deliver research-based education to New Hanover County residents, empowering them with vital skills in:

​🔪 Kitchen Safety

🍎 Health & Nutrition

🦠 Disease Prevention & Reduction

🛒 Food Access Initiatives

​Backed by NC State Extension resources, you will play a critical role in connecting residents with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive.

​🔗 Ready to lead? Learn more and apply today at the link in the comments!