North Carolina State University's annual potato variety trial in Pasquotank County evaluates potato varieties under local growing conditions to support North Carolina's potato industry. Due to changes in this year's research protocol, approximately three-quarters of the trial potatoes were no longer needed for data collection, leaving more than 2,200 pounds of fresh potatoes available for harvest. Without coordination, this surplus produce would have remained unused despite the ongoing need for fresh, nutritious food among local food assistance organizations.

Pasquotank County Cooperative Extension partnered with the Master Gardeners, Local High School Ag programs a local business, and other Extension Offices to coordinate the harvest and distribution of the excess potatoes. Nineteen community volunteers and Extension Agents worked together with the NC State Potato Research Team to harvest potatoes, transport research samples to the research station, and sort then the excess crop into 5-pound bags for community distribution. Through collaboration with local hunger relief organizations, Extension coordinated an efficient system to ensure the surplus produce reached individuals and families in need.

More than 2,200 pounds of fresh potatoes were harvested and distributed through one food bank, three food pantries, one soup kitchen, three church blessing boxes, and volunteers who participated in the harvest. This effort reduced food waste while increasing access to fresh, locally grown produce for community members experiencing food insecurity. The project also strengthened partnerships among Extension, university researchers, volunteers, and local charitable organizations, demonstrating how agricultural research can create meaningful community benefits beyond its original research purpose.

Objective: Plant Production Systems

Team Members: Grace Atkins (Pasquotank), Lilly Bunch (Pasquotank), Mark Clough (Horticultural Science), Mason Lawrence (Pasquotank), Sarah Richardson (Gates)