From peanuts to sweet potatoes, roots run deep in Eastern North Carolina. County agriculture cooperatives and youth organizations like Future Farmers of America and 4-H are working to promote – and protect – the region's thriving croplands.

"It's very important for kids to realize they live in such a strong agricultural area," says Sandy Hall, Nash County extension agent for 4-H and youth programs. "You can get fresh produce right here in Nash County, and kids who don't get out in the countryside need to know the things going on in their community."

Each year, the organization reaches more than 5,000 kids through school enrichment programs, traditional 4-H programs and their annual Heritage Days celebration showcasing agricultural exhibits and demonstrations.

In neighboring Edgecombe County, 150,000 acres of cropland comprise some 1,200-plus farms yielding the nation's best commodity crops. Cotton, soybeans, peanuts, tobacco and sweet potatoes are found here along with a thriving livestock industry.

"Why agriculture and 4-H? Next time you sit down to eat breakfast, lunch or dinner, you'll be eating the answer," says Lesa Walton, extension agent for 4-H and youth programs for the Edgecombe County Extension Center. According to Walton, one American farmer feeds about 98 people on average, and on less acreage every year.

"It is our mission to partner with communities to deliver education and technology that enrich the lives, land and economy of Edgecombe County's youth and families to ensure everyone knows the importance of agriculture and its future for generations to come," Walton says.