North Carolina’s 2015 produce season looks very promising. The state has just emerged from a long, unseasonably cold and wet winter, but it has not dampened the spirits of growers. Spring has started to bring on flowers and some early fruits, although most crops are about two weeks behind the normal schedule.

The North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services is continually focused on helping growers with all the resources available to increase markets locally and abroad while ensuring the safety of citizens through rigorous food-safety programs. We want everyone to enjoy a safe and delicious product from North Carolina.

Growers tell us their primary concerns are increasing market share for their commodities. The department is working on several fronts to accomplish this task.

On a local level, the department’s marketing division is working with retail and wholesale buyers to promote North Carolina-grown products. Shoppers will notice in many stores across the state the “Got to Be NC” logo, touting that the fresh produce came from North Carolina. In addition, some stores will highlight the grower who produced the vegetable or fruit.

The department is also looking outside the state for companies to purchase more North Carolina products. Trade missions and tasting events have highlighted some of the huge variety that is available in our state.

The department places a strong emphasis on direct markets, too, with the four state-owned regional farmers markets and 240 non-government farmers markets statewide helping to increase sales and market share for produce growers. The department works with the markets, bringing them new marketing techniques and assisting in promotional activities.

Media campaigns encourage consumers to visit their local market, and there is also a website dedicated to directing them to markets across the state.

On the international front, our marketing team has led trade missions to China and represented the state throughout the world, seeking new and expanded markets for growers. New opportunities in non-traditional markets are always occurring, and the department seeks them out to keep growers informed.

In addition, state ports are being upgraded to handle larger vessels and the department is working with that sector to increase exports of North Carolina agricultural products. There is a great demand for many of the commodities we grow in North Carolina, and improved ports will enable our growers to meet that demand.

As a state agency, the department is also tasked with ensuring the quality and safety of food products. Through our food and drug protection, meat and poultry inspection and veterinary divisions, along with partnerships with federal agencies, the department is involved in food safety efforts throughout the food chain. The department also administers cooperative grading services, which perform Good Agricultural Practices audits for growers across the state.

Steve Troxler is the North Carolina Commissioner of Agriculture.