The North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission celebrated governor Josh Stein's official proclamation of February 2025 as "North Carolina Sweet Potato Month" in recognition of the sweet potato's significance in the state's agricultural industry, economy, and cultural farming heritage. This reaffirms North Carolina's status as a top sweet potato producer since 1971, growing more sweet potatoes than all other states combined. With an economic impact of over $298 million, the industry supports thousands of agricultural workers, hundreds of farmers and processors, and agribusinesses across the state.
L-R: Rob Hill, Tull Hill Farms; chief deputy commissioner David Smith from NCDA; NC governor Josh Stein; Michelle Grainger, NCSC executive director, president of NC Farm Bureau Shawn Harding, NC House of Representatives Ray Jeffers
The state's unique climate and fertile soil have made it one of the ideal homes for sweet potato farming for over a century. Scientific advancements, such as the Covington variety developed by NC State University researchers, have further strengthened the industry.
In celebration, the NC Sweetpotato Commission announces Tommy Batts as the recipient of the 2025 Billy Little Award for Outstanding Service to the Sweetpotato Industry.
Established in 2023, the award recognizes individuals who exemplify leadership, innovation, and dedication to the success of North Carolina's sweet potato growers. Batts has been an integral part of the agricultural community since joining as a county horticulture agent in 2017. A native of the Wendell community, Batts holds multiple degrees from North Carolina State University, Louisiana State University, and the University of Florida, bringing extensive knowledge and experience to the industry.
Throughout his career, Batts has worked as a field research assistant at NCSU and BASF, as well as a graduate assistant at LSU, developing strong relationships with agricultural leaders across the country. His recent accolades include the NC Beekeepers Educator of the Year Award and the Achievement Award from the Ag Agents Association. His work has been instrumental in finding solutions for the guava root-knot nematode, a major challenge for sweet potato producers.
Tommy Batts (center) with wife Rebekah Batts (left) and Michelle Grainger, NCSC executive director.
His impact has not gone unnoticed by his colleagues. "It is wonderful that Tommy is being recognized with the Billy Little Award for Outstanding Contribution," said Batts' county director, Norman Harrell. "Billy dedicated his extension career to helping sweet potato farmers improve yield and quality. Tommy is following in his footsteps, particularly with his efforts to find solutions for the guava root-knot nematode. Wilson County is very proud of Tommy and congratulates him on this well-deserved honor."
The commission extends its gratitude to all those who contribute to the success of the state's signature crop and official vegetable, as well as to Batts and Stein for honoring the legacy and future of North Carolina's sweet potato industry.
For more information:
North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission
Tel: +1 (919) 894-1067
www.ncsweetpotatoes.com
