A Hatch-tastic Science Experience for 2nd Graders

The 2nd-grade classroom at Carolina Christian Academy recently brought science to life through the National Embryology Curriculum, giving students a hands-on opportunity to explore the life cycle in an exciting and memorable way. Through this engaging program, students learned about the stages of development while observing fertilized eggs as they grew and changed each day.

April is Stress Awareness Month

Stress is something everyone experiences. In small doses, it can even be helpful—motivating us to meet deadlines or respond to challenges. But when stress becomes constant, it can take a serious toll on both mental and physical health.

How Stress Affects Your Health

Short-term stress may cause headaches or irritability, but chronic (long-term) stress can lead to more serious problems. According to health experts:

There’s still time to register for the upcoming ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification class! This valuable training is perfect for anyone responsible for food safety in a food service operation and helps participants gain the knowledge needed to keep food safe and meet certification requirements. Don’t miss this opportunity to earn your certification—reserve your spot today before registration closes.

Call our office 828-389-6305

to register. 

As canning season quickly approaches, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about ways to preserve the fresh flavors of spring and summer. Sweet spreads like jams, jellies, preserves, and fruit butters are a delicious way to make the most of ripe berries, peaches, and other seasonal fruits. With just a few simple ingredients and safe canning methods, you can turn fresh produce into homemade treats that can be enjoyed for months to come. Whether you’re preparing for your first batch or continuing a family tradition, now is a great time to learn the basics of making sweet spreads and get ready for the season ahead.

Free Soil Test Kits Available April 1 - Nov. 15

From April 1, 2026, to November 15, 2026, Have Your Soil Tested At No Charge.

Healthy soil is the foundation of successful gardening. The first step to cultivating healthy soil is having your soil tested. Collecting soil samples only takes a few minutes and has many benefits. It can help you save money on your lawn, garden, and landscape, can result in healthier plants by telling you which nutrients are already in your soil and which you need to add, and can protect water quality by preventing unnecessary fertilizer applications.

Tree Grafting Class Held at Clay County Center

The North Carolina Cooperative Extension – Clay County Center recently hosted a hands-on fruit tree grafting workshop for residents interested in learning how to propagate their own apple trees. The class was taught by Craig Mauney, Area Commercial Fruit and Vegetable Agent, who shared both the science and practical skills behind successful grafting.

Farmers Market

Applications Still Open

Spring Trees

By: Eleanor Moyer, NC State Extension Master Gardener℠ Volunteer – Clay County.

Well, early spring has sprung with loads of beautiful trees just bursting with loveliness. There is one wolf in sheep’s clothing among them, however— Bradford Pears! They are pretty, but their flowers stink. They offer some nectar for bees, but not enough for their preference. They are short-lived and vulnerable to damage in storms, and most importantly, they displace our more valuable native trees. NC State Extension has offered a Bradford Exchange, which I hope they will repeat next year, where a native tree is provided for a cut-down Bradford. You can take initiative now and create your own exchange. Here are a few of the beautiful native choices.