Sun Flowers
Ornamental Trees
Corn
Tomato
Beef

ag-facts

 

Geographic Location

  • Less than 24 hour drive to New York, South Florida, Houston, Chicago, etc.
  • Within 250 miles of Charlotte, Raleigh, Atlanta, Charleston, Nashville, Cincinnati
  • Quick access to major interstate highways: I‐26, I‐40, I‐85, I‐77
  • Regional and International airports: Asheville, Charlotte, Greenville, Atlanta

Climate

  • Distinct but mild seasons – Avg. Temperature: Low 41ºF High 73ºF.
  • Fertile Soils suitable for most horticultural crops
  • Annual precipitation ‐ 56.4 inches
  • Average elevation – 2200 feet above sea level
  • Cool nights in summer months; high frequency of clear, sun lit days in winter

Infrastructure

  • Long‐time established agricultural production and packing operations
  • Multiple suppliers and service providers, grower associations
  • Major crops include apples, tomatoes, vegetables, berries, floral and ornamental
  • Agriculture/Business Friendly
  • Local government support for agricultural extension service, economic development, zoning regulations favorable to farming
  • Agricultural District program for county in a "Right to Farm" state
  • Agribusiness is NC's #1 industry and it makes up 20% of gross local product

Education and Research

  • Mountain Area Horticultural Research Station – NC Department of Agriculture
  • Cooperative Extension Services – NC State University/NC A&T University
  • Blue Ridge Community College – highly ranked, state supported vocational and technical institution located in Henderson County with tailored courses 
  • Clemson University – Advanced studies in agriculture, science, engineering and otherrelated fields, located 60 miles away in SC

Culture and Activities

  • Small town atmosphere in close proximity to large metropolitan area
  • National Forests, State and Local Parks all open to public access and use
  • Hiking, Mountain Biking, Boating, Canoeing, Kayaking, Fishing, Hunting
  • Sports and Fitness Centers, Soccer, Softball, League Play, Swimming
  • Arts, Music, Theaters, Cultural Events and Festivals
  • Faith based community with numerous options for worship
  • Low County Tax Rate
  • At $0.5136/$100 one of the lowest property tax rates in North Carolina
  • Deferment program based on Present Use Value results in significant reduction