My name is Colden Bradshaw, and I am excited to serve as your new Field Crops Extension Agent in Sampson County. I will be working with corn, cotton, soybean, peanut, small grain, and tobacco growers to provide research-based information, educational programming, and on-farm support to help address production challenges and improve profitability.

Growing up on my family's farm in Faison fueled my passion for agriculture from an early age. Through my involvement in FFA and agriculture courses at North Duplin High School, I developed a strong appreciation for the importance of agriculture in our local communities and was inspired to pursue a career serving the industry. This passion led me to NC State University, where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Crop and Soil Sciences in 2024. Currently, I am wrapping up a Master's degree in Weed Science under the guidance of Dr. Charlie Cahoon.

I am most excited to have the opportunity to return home and serve the hardworking farming community of Sampson County. Agriculture has long been the backbone of this region, and I am honored to work alongside the growers who contribute so much to our local economy and way of life. My goal is to build strong relationships with producers, learn about the challenges and opportunities unique to your operations, and develop educational programs that provide meaningful, practical solutions.

Sampson County is one of the largest and most diverse agricultural counties in North Carolina, with more than 800 farming operations producing a wide range of commodities. This diversity presents both opportunities and challenges, and I look forward to working with growers, industry partners, and fellow Extension personnel to address emerging issues and bring the latest university research directly to the farm.

As I begin my career with NC Cooperative Extension, I encourage you to reach out, introduce yourself, and share the concerns and questions you face throughout the growing season. Whether it involves crop management, weed control, variety selection, or navigating new production challenges, I am here to serve as a resource for you.

I am also aware of the challenges the current drought poses for many growers across our area. While we continue hoping for much needed rainfall, I remain confident in the resilience and determination that have long defined our agricultural community. Agriculture is never without its challenges, but Sampson County producers have consistently demonstrated their ability to adapt and persevere through difficult times.

I look forward to meeting many of you in the coming months, visiting farms across the county, and working together to support the continued success of agriculture in Sampson County. Please do not hesitate to contact me if there is any way I can assist you.