Plant Sciences Initiative Growing the Future of North Carolina Agriculture

The latest episode of Golden LEAF Critical Conversations with Scott Hamilton features three voices shaping the future of North Carolina agriculture. They answer the question: What happens when scientists, extension specialists, and farmers tackle agriculture's toughest challenges together? Adrian Percy, Director of the NC State Plant Sciences Initiative (PSI), shares the bold vision behind bringing researchers, engineers, industry partners, and growers together to solve real problems on the farm. David Suchoff, Extension, Outreach and Engagement Platform Director for PSI and NC State Crop and Soil Science faculty member, explains how research moves from the lab to the field and how extension helps farmers turn innovation into practical results. Bo Stone, Robeson County farmer and PSI Farmer Advisory Council member, brings the grower's perspective on emerging tools like AI decision systems, soil diagnostics, and sensor technologies that are changing how farmers manage crops and protect the land. Listeners will walk away with a clearer understanding of how cutting-edge science, collaboration, and farmer feedback are helping North Carolina agriculture stay productive, profitable, and sustainable for generations to come.