The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services activated a hotline Sept. 5 to connect farmers with resources that can assist with agricultural emergencies. The toll-free number is 1-866-645-9403. A live operator will be available on the hotline between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Due to the approach and potential impacts of Hurricane Dorian, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper declared a state of emergency for North Carolina. Hurricane Dorian creates an imminent threat of severe economic loss of livestock, poultry and crops ready to be harvested.

NC Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler's recommendation and pursuant to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 166A-19.70(g), the governor has directed the Department of Public Safety to temporarily suspend weighing those vehicles used to transport livestock, poultry or crops ready to be harvested.  The governor has also declared that the maximum hours of service for drivers prescribed by N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-381 should be waived.