NC Tunnel Talks

Beginning January 13, 2026, we invite you to participate in a series of live, interactive sessions held on the second Tuesday of each month from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Eastern Time. This program is designed to provide both new and experienced commercial producers, as well as Extension Agents, USDA Conservationists with in-depth education in high tunnel farming. Access sessions conveniently through Zoom and engage directly with experts during dedicated Q&A segments.

Hosted by Cyndi Knudson, John Gurganus, and Heather Berger, Extension professionals with extensive research-based knowledge and practical field experience growing specialty crops in controlled environments. Guest panelists, including university researchers, accomplished farmers and industry leaders, will be invited to share proven strategies and emerging insights. Learn about cultural methods, maximizing marketable yields, mitigating pests and weeds, submitting samples for laboratory analysis, site selection and structural design, emerging technologies, business planning, and more.

This series offers a unique opportunity to strengthen your skills, reduce risks, and stay ahead in the evolving field of high tunnel farming.

For further information or if you need accommodations for persons with disabilities, please contact Cyndi Knudson at (336)908-9820 ceknudson@ncat.edu

• January 13 - Strong Starts: Transplant Production and Timing
• February 10 - Tunnel Vision: High Tunnel Bed Layout and Prep
• March 10 - Drip, Feed, Succeed: Irrigation/Fertigation in High Tunnels
• April 14 - Upward Bound: Smart Trellising Strategies
• May 12 - The Sampling Advantage: Soil, Tissue, and Disease Management
• June 9 - From Tunnel to Table: Produce Safety Made Simple
• July 14 - Future Ready: Design and Location for Success
• August 11 - Tunnel Tactics: Undercover Pest Defense
• September 8 - Weed Warriors: Winning the Battle in High Tunnels
• October 13 - Planting Playbook: Planning for Maximum Production
• November 10 - Growing Gold: Specialty Crops in High Tunnels
• December 8 - Plant to Profit: Crop Budgets and Recordkeeping