NC Watermelon Association

Our first two days in Washington, D.C. for the International Fresh Produce Association Conference were an absolute blast! From opening receptions and keynote speeches by influential agricultural leaders who helped prepare us for our time in the House and Senate, to celebrating a special birthday and baby shower with our watermelon family, we made the most of every moment.

The knowledge we gained and the people we met undoubtedly shaped our conversations on Capitol Hill. We are so grateful for these opportunities and the chance to advocate for agriculture alongside such an amazing group.

Be on the lookout for all the places we made pit stops on Day 3!

The deadline to apply for the $221 million USDA block grant for certain ag losses from Hurricane Helene has been extended to June 12!

The block grant applies to producers and landowners in 39 presidential or secretarial declared counties for Hurricane Helene damage. The disaster assistance will only cover losses associated with Hurricane Helene that were not covered under any other USDA programs. Learn more from N.C. Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler at the link below!

More info: https://blog.ncagr.gov/2026/06/08/from-the-tractor-final-days-to-apply-for-disaster-assistance/