Eighty-five years ago, farmers and rural communities came together to form some of the first electric cooperatives across the state and the nation to serve power to rural areas. They set the poles, strung the lines, and went door-to-door, asking people in their communities to join them in establishing a local, member-owned business that could transform their community and change lives.

Since then, we have come a long way, but we’ve remained true to our roots and committed to supporting, investing in, and strengthening our local communities. Electricity continues to hold great promise for agriculture—North Carolina’s top industry—and opens the door to new opportunities across numerous sectors as we work to embrace innovation and implement new technologies.

In recognition of agriculture’s essential role in our everyday lives, National Ag Day will celebrate its 51st anniversary on March 19. Ag Day is a day when producers, agricultural associations, corporations, universities, government agencies, and countless others across America gather to recognize and celebrate the abundance provided by agriculture. We are thankful every day for the contributions farmers have made to our communities.

Agriculture is the backbone of our country and is North Carolina’s leading industry. Our livelihood greatly depends on the crops provided by American farmers. We salute and honor the men and women who contribute daily to our national prosperity. Thanks to the efficiency of our farmers and ranchers, our rural communities are stronger and more resilient.

We are proud to support farmers’ operational needs through safe, reliable, and affordable power. As North Carolina’s agricultural and energy industries grow, we strive to develop efficiencies that benefit all.

Thank you again to our farmers, agricultural members, and partners for the vital ways you support our daily lives.