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