McDowell County Farm to Table

08/28/2026

Do you know what SNAP is but are you not sure if you qualify for this food assistance program? Here are some of the requirements in North Carolina:

Applicants’ total income must meet the income limit set for that household size
Able-bodied adults aged 18–64 without a child underage 14 may be required to work or participate in training at least 20 hours per week
Must be a NC resident

If you are still unsure if you qualify or would like to ask more questions, contact the More In My Basket team today, toll-free: 1-855-240-1451. They will be happy to assist you Monday through Friday, 8am – 5pm.

08/26/2026

Late blight on tomato has been confirmed in Henderson County as of Aug 21. This disease can spread rapidly & over long distances under favorable conditions (high humidity, frequent rainfall, moderate temperatures), so growers in the western region should begin preventative sprays on susceptible varieties of tomato. Learn more about this disease spray control program. https://buff.ly/NTQqjps

Late blight on tomato has been confirmed in Henderson County as of Friday, August 21. We will work to confirm the genotype of the strain found in Henderson county, as this will infer the fungicide…

08/21/2026

Let’s be real: the transition from "lazy summer snacks" to "structured school lunches" can feel like a professional sport. Between the morning rush and after-school practice, meal planning isn't just a luxury, it’s a sanity saver!

Here are 3 quick tips to keep your kitchen organized and stretch your food budget to its max this semester:

Pivot to Plant Proteins: Beans, lentils, and eggs are nutritional powerhouses that cost a fraction of meat. Swap one beef meal for a bean chili or lentil pasta to see instant savings.
Buy Generic & Bulk: Store brands are often the exact same quality as name brands. Grab large bags of oats or rice instead of pre-packaged cups—you’re paying for the convenience, not the food!

Shop discount grocery stores: These stores focus on low prices and bare bones store layouts. You may need to bring your own bags.

Shop Your Pantry First: "Inventory night" is a lifesaver. Use that lone jar of sauce or box of crackers before buying more.
Don’t forget to use your SNAP benefits!

If you need any assistance with the SNAP program, contact the More In My Basket team at 1-855-240-1451 today!

08/21/2026

The Mountain State Fair is just around the corner. It is a fun way to highlight your preserving and cooking skills by entering their contests and taking the chance to bring home some blue ribbons this year. Check out the various contest they have and make plans on entering. You can even drop off entries at the Extension Office and they can Pony Express them for you. The deadlines are approaching: https://buff.ly/TRZzq6i

08/19/2026

WNC AgOptions Information Sessions are being held across WNC thru Sept 10. Don't miss one if you intend to apply. They are informative! https://buff.ly/uBZioRs

08/14/2026

Have you wanted to learn how to do small batch canning and preserving? Join us at the Corpening YMCA for a program on preserving in smaller batches while also keeping health concerns in mind. Wednesday August 19th with their Healthy Aging Program.

08/14/2026

If you're between the ages of 18 and 64, don't have any children and are mentally and physically able to work, your SNAP benefits may only be available for 3 months.

This ABAWD (Able-bodied without dependents) policy requires individuals who fall into this category to be working at least 20 hours a week to received continued benefits. Otherwise, the benefits will stop after that 3-month period.

Keep in mind that working hours count as part-time or full-time jobs, volunteer work, work training programs or similar.

If you would like to find out if you are eligible to apply for SNAP in North Carolina, visit the More In My Basket website at morefood.org and submit a contact form. Their team will reach out to you within 3 business days.

08/12/2026

NCCE-McDowell Center will be hosting a Plant Clinic @ the Marion Tailgate Market on Sat, Aug 15. Have questions? We can help...Soil Testing, Gardening,Plant, Tree, & Shrub Diseases, Lawncare, Pest Control Options. Bring your diseased plants or insects for better problem identification.

08/12/2026

Need help with technology? Do you need to charge a device? A Digital Pop Up Cafe will be open on Thurs, Aug 13, 11-1pm, 900 Baldwin Avenue, Marion. Computers & mobile devices will be available for use. Come join us!

08/07/2026

Food Preservation Tips for Healthy Aging

Preserving our summer and fall produce, by canning and freezing, to eat later has always helped families have tasty dishes throughout the year. As we age and our households change, we may need to adjust how we preserve that bounty. Cathy Hohenstein, NC Cooperative Extension, McDowell County, FCS agent, will share ways to preserve some of our favorite foods in smaller batches. She’ll cover canning in smaller batches, freezing for quality as well as in smaller amounts to use later, and also food preservation as it relates to health as we may be needing to make some changes due to health concerns like Diabetes and High Blood Pressure. All while keeping food safety in mind, to ensure we have safe, healthy foods for later in the year. Join us at the Corpening YMCA on August 19th at 1pm. 348 Grace Corpening Dr. Marion, NC 28752