New Agribusiness Agent Connects with Local Farmers in Robeson County

As the holiday season unfolds, the importance of community connections is highlighted by John Gurganus, a new agribusiness agent with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension in Robeson County. Gurganus emphasizes the vital role that relationships play in our personal and professional lives, particularly in agriculture, where collaboration is essential for success.

Having joined the Cooperative Extension to support farmers across Robeson and eight other counties, Gurganus brings over a decade of experience in small-farming operations. His journey began in Onslow County, where he managed produce for a local restaurant and participated in the Onslow Incubator Farm Program. This experience was instrumental in shaping his understanding of agriculture and introduced him to the resources offered by the Cooperative Extension.

From Challenges to Opportunities

Gurganus faced numerous challenges during his career, particularly during his brief foray into the hemp industry in 2019. Despite the initial enthusiasm, this venture was not successful, leading him to reflect on the realities of agricultural business. “Not all business risks will lead to success; it is vital to know where you will be able to sell your product before you grow it,” he stated. This lesson has informed his approach as he now supports other farmers in avoiding similar pitfalls.

Following his experience in the hemp market, Gurganus returned to vegetable production, taking over a small family farm in Pender County. There, he managed seven acres of organic crops and implemented innovative practices by constructing three high tunnels to facilitate year-round production. Additionally, the farm made substantial investments in shiitake mushroom production, yielding between 500-800 new logs annually. The owner of the farm excelled at establishing connections with local restaurants, which proved crucial for the farm’s success.

Supporting Local Farmers

In his role with the Cooperative Extension, Gurganus aims to share the knowledge gained from his experiences with new and aspiring farmers in the region. He focuses on small-scale vegetable production while leveraging connections with North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University to provide a wealth of resources. Gurganus is dedicated to assisting farmers with various needs, including high tunnel production and specialty crops like mushrooms.

Gurganus expressed his desire to be a valuable asset for farmers in Robeson County as they grow their businesses. He invites anyone looking for guidance or resources in agriculture to reach out. For more information, individuals can contact John Gurganus at 336-894-8739, via email at [email protected], or visit the Cooperative Extension’s website at http://robeson.ces.ncsu.edu/.