N.C. Cooperative Extension, Stokes County Center has been awarded the NC AgVentures Grant sponsored by NC Tobacco Trust Fund Commission.
The grant was used to purchase plasticulture equipment. We used the award to purchase a Compact Raised Bed Mulch Layer, a Plastic Mulch Lifter, and a trailer for transportation to rent to small farms.
The following equipment is to be leased by Lessee.- Nolt (Red) Mulch Layer with Equipment Trailer
- Nolt (Red) Mulch Lifter with or without Equipment Trailer
Using plasticulture as a production method for growing fruits and vegetables has its advantages. Plasticulture has been proven to increase yield (up to three times greater), improve weed control and watering efficiency (water savings of up to 90 percent) and reduce fertilizer costs due to a targeted, more efficient use of applied nutrients. To help the state’s small farmers experience the advantage of these benefits, below are some frequently asked questions about the Plasticulture Equipment Rental.
Who can rent the equipment?
Any North Carolina small farmer who wants to try plasticulture to grow crops. We may ask you to share your yield information with us for record-keeping and impact reporting.How do I rent the equipment?
The equipment will be rented on a first‐come, first‐served basis. Contact N.C. Cooperative Extension, Stokes County Center to request an application and be placed on the schedule. Proper identification will be required when the equipment is picked up. Only one piece of equipment will be rented at a time, depending on the production season. The equipment cannot be rented for more than three days at a time.How do I return the equipment?
The equipment should be returned to the location where it was picked up on the date indicated on the application. Any farmer who does not return the equipment when promised may not be allowed to rent it again and could be subject to a late fee. The equipment should be cleaned before it is returned; a cleaning fee may be applied should the equipment be returned in an unsatisfactory condition. If you are an organic farmer, please note that you are responsible for cleaning the equipment to meet organic certification standards.Does it cost to rent the equipment?
Yes. Rental costs are based on the length of use and due at the time of pick up.- One‐day rental ‐ $25
- Two‐day rental ‐ $50
- Three‐day rental ‐ $75
How do I pay the rental fee?
When the equipment is picked up, the farmer should provide either a check or cash for the number of days they will rent the unit and complete all required paperwork.These videos are meant for educational purposes only when renting the N.C. Cooperative Extension of Stokes County Plasticulture Equipment.
If you have questions about the Stokes County Plasticulture Equipment Rental program, contact our office at (336) 593-8179.
