Source: PRESS RELEASE, 12/18/19

Walter Smith, a hemp and poultry farmer in Yadkin County, has officially filed to run for Agriculture Commissioner. He is one of only a few farmers in the state that grows hemp for both fiber and CBD. Walter grew up on a family farm in Robeson County that produced tobacco, cotton, row crops, and small grain. They also raised hog and beef cattle. He has an Agricultural and Biological Engineering Degree from N.C. State University, taught Vocational Agriculture at Bear Grass High School in Martin County and was employed by the U.S. Dept of Agriculture where he worked closely with the farmers of North Carolina administering federal farm programs, conservation programs, disaster programs, and making agriculture loans.

Walter says it is time for new ideas and innovative measures that will save our family farms and revitalize our rural communities. North Carolina is one on the leading states in the nation in the loss of farmers and farmland. A recent study shows that the rural urban divide in North Carolina is rapidly getting larger. Cities are growing at record paces while rural communities are losing population. He says that to turn this around we must work to generate more agribusinesses and to provide much needed infrastructure such as broad band internet and additional health care facilities in rural areas.

Smith said the time for change is now, before it becomes too late. Industrial hemp is an example of an exciting new crop that has the potential to save family farms, generate jobs, and revitalize rural communities. Smith says he been and will continue to fight for regulations that allow farmers to grow and market hemp for every possible use without undue restrictions. In addition to promoting the hemp industry Walter also supports the legalization of Marijuana for medicinal purposes. 33 states have already approved some form of medical marijuana. He states that it will not only help our farmers and rural areas but will generate much needed jobs, income and tax revenue for the entire state.

Walter says that he will be a strong voice for all farmers, both large and small, and for rural communities throughout North Carolina.  

For more details about Walter and his ideas to help North Carolina you can visit his website at www.voteWalterSmith.com