Harley Roberson champions agriculture behind the scenes
KENANSVILLE — Harley Roberson’s connection to agriculture runs deep — shaped by her upbringing on a generational farmland in Mount Olive, and early experiences at a local seed company where her mother worked. That foundation grew into a calling, guiding her through her education at the University of Mount Olive, where she earned a degree in agribusiness in 2022.
Though her family no longer farms directly, leasing their land kept her closely tied to the agricultural community and strengthened her desire to serve those who do the work of feeding the world.
“Growing up, I spent countless hours talking to local farmers at the seed company with my mom,” said Roberson. “It made me realize that serving others through agriculture was where I belonged.”
Now a Commercial Loan Processor at AgCarolina Farm Credit’s Kenansville branch, Roberson plays a vital behind-the-scenes role in helping local farmers secure the financial resources they need to succeed.
“Every loan we process represents someone feeding the world,” she says. “AgCarolina goes above and beyond for local agriculture,” Roberson said. “When people think of agriculture, they think of tractors and dirt. I think of families at dinner tables, people getting the medicine they need, and kids wearing warm coats in winter. That’s what it’s all about.”
Roberson is passionate about mentoring the next generation, especially young women entering the field. She credits her education, mentors like Sandy Maddox, and the support of her coworkers for helping her thrive in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
“I’ve been lucky to work alongside men who see me as an equal and want me to succeed,” said Roberson. “Young ladies today have so many opportunities to learn and lead. I wouldn’t be surprised to see more women in crop and animal production in the next decade.”
With a strong belief in continuous learning and representation, she encourages others to speak up, stay curious, and take pride in their place in agriculture.
“Always keep learning. Be a sponge. Stay open-minded. And never be too afraid to speak up — the more perspectives you understand, the better you’ll be,” said Roberson. “I love teaching young people about agriculture. Their curiosity is what will keep this industry strong.”
Roberson hopes to inspire more young people to explore the diversity of careers agriculture offers. She believes agriculture is about more than just machines and soil — it’s about people, families, and communities.
Her story is not just one of personal success, but of dedication to an industry that sustains everyday life — and a mission to ensure it thrives for generations to come.
MOUNT OLIVE — The soft rustle of crops in the breeze and the expansive farmland that stretches across both sides of Manly Grove Road serve as gentle reminders of the steady pulse of work that characterizes life on the farm.
Nestled along the back roads of Mount Olive, Insight Agronomics stands as a quiet outpost amid the agricultural landscape. Greeted by the sight of a towering John Deere tractor parked prominently at the gravel entrance, Duplin Journal met with Isaac Linton, a student from the University of Mount Olive.
Linton is no stranger to farm life. A fifth-generation farmer hailing from Grantham, Linton grew up homeschooled and surrounded by livestock as part of his family’s operation, Countryview Farms.
Although his agricultural journey started with livestock —showing pigs, turkeys, goats, and sheep through 4-H —his focus has shifted toward crop science. Currently pursuing a degree in ag production systems with a minor in plant science, Linton is exploring a new side of agriculture. Through his internship at Insight Agronomics, he is gaining hands-on experience in precision farming and crop management.
Isaac Linton, stands in front of a corn field that sits right next to Insight Agronomics, where he is currently completing an internship as part of his curriculum at the University of Mount Olive. Photo by Ena Sellers / Duplin Journal
“Taking crop science and soil science intrigued me, and it’s something I didn’t have much experience in,” said Linton.
While livestock remains close to his heart Linton has embraced the challenge of learning something entirely new. “Stepping out of your comfort zone,” he says, “makes it more enjoyable because there’s something new every day.”
Linton, who lives seven minutes up the road from the facility, learned about the internship opportunity through one of his professors who works closely with Josh Raynor, the owner of Insight Agronomics. Linton told Duplin Journal that his internship has provided valuable hands-on experience, exposing him to various tasks.
“Yesterday, we were planting beans. Today, I was spraying pre-emergent on top of them,” said Linton, noting that each day is different.
The diversity of work has given him a comprehensive look into the dynamic nature of crop production, helping sharpen his observational skills and deepen his understanding of its complexities. One of the biggest lessons he has learned so far is that agriculture rarely offers a one-size-fits-all solution. Learning to solve problems and make informed recommendations for the farm has been a key takeaway for him.
“So, it’s learning to adapt to those scenarios and understand it further to make recommendations,” Linton explained, adding that every situation requires flexibility.
He has also been involved in several research trials, including testing different soybean varieties and participating in herbicide trials in neighboring counties. Much of his fieldwork has focused on scouting peanuts, corn, and soybeans for pests and evaluating plant health. He has gained valuable experience using advanced tools, such as GPS-guided auto-steering tractors, and learned about the importance of crop-specific management strategies, especially regarding chemical applications.
Photo by Ena Sellers / Duplin Journal
Balancing a 35-hour workweek that starts at 7:30 a.m. and wraps up around 5 p.m., he still finds time to enjoy the simple things in life like tinkering with his 1987 F250, spending time by the river, and being with his family and girlfriend.
With the internship running through August, Linton is gaining not only technical skills but also a broader perspective of the agricultural landscape.
As graduation approaches in May 2026, Linton is keeping his options open. He plans to earn a CDL and is considering truck driving after school, but the field of precision ag and crop production is now firmly on his radar.
Tucked in the quiet backroads of Turkey, North Carolina, a family found not just land — but purpose. Nestled within 1,300 acres of gently rolling farmland, Jaclyn Smith, her husband Reid, and their three children have created a home here.
What started as a small operation using their land in Clayton to explore the possibilities during the pandemic has evolved into a thriving agricultural venture — the Wilders brand.
We were fortunate to find farmers exiting the industry just as we started, Jaclyn told Duplin Journal, explaining it was an exciting opportunity to learn from experienced breeders as they shared their knowledge while leaving the field.
Cattle graze at Wilders farm in Sampson County. Right, Jaclyn and Reid Smith pose for a photo at their farm. Photo by Ena Sellers / Duplin Journal
With fullblood Wagyu cattle grazing under open skies and Berkshire hogs foraging through native pastures. The rhythm of rural life offers a grounding sense of peace while working the land keeps the family connected to something greater.
At Wilders, each animal is more than just livestock — they’re an integral part of a living, breathing ecosystem that supports the family’s deeper purpose.
“Every animal is treated like they should be — they’re enjoying nature,” said Jaclyn, reflecting their commitment to ethical and compassionate care. “It takes extreme care, and we want to do it the right way. We want to be good stewards of God’s creation.”
At the heart of the Smith family’s operation is a carefully developed breeding program focused on full-blood Wagyu cattle—animals whose lineage traces directly back to Japan. Their mission is to elevate the quality of their herd through superior genetics, producing premium beef known for its exceptional marbling. From the beginning, the Smiths have been intentional about acquiring mature cows and experimenting with elite genetic lines, enabling them to build a strong foundation for both their breeding and terminal herds. This dual-herd approach allows them to balance long-term genetic improvements with ongoing beef production.
Berkshire hogs roam freely in designated areas where they play and forage through native pastures. Currently, the Wilders farm raises between 100 to 150 pigs. Photo by Ena Sellers / Duplin Journal
One of the most important components of their program is the use of advanced reproductive technologies, such as artificial insemination and embryo transfer. Partnering with a company called Vytelle, the family employs cutting-edge methods to extract unfertilized eggs which are then fertilized and graded for viability before being implanted into surrogate cows.
“We have a satellite lab here,” said Jaclyn. “Vytelle works extracting what they call ovocytes, which are like unfertilized eggs from the mom and then they can fertilize the eggs to create an embryo.”
This process enables them to multiply the offspring of elite animals while maintaining strict control over genetic quality. Jaclyn noted the excitement of being able to carry out this work on their property, not only for their herd but also as a resource for other cattlemen.
Their use of surrogate mothers, which include both Wagyu and larger non-Wagyu cows, reflects the family’s practical approach to herd management. Since Wagyu cows are smaller and can face challenges during birth, using larger surrogates helps reduce complications and supports stronger calf development thanks to improved milk production. Although only about a third of the implanted embryos successfully take, the results are worth the effort. The Smiths carefully manage breeding and calving cycles, aiming for two- to three-week birth windows in the spring and fall. This schedule improves survival rates and keeps both mothers and calves healthy.
Raising Wagyu cattle also requires patience. Unlike other breeds, Wagyus take 28 to 30 months to reach harvest weight, significantly increasing the cost of production. However, this extended feeding period is essential to developing the fine marbling that defines premium Wagyu beef. During their first year of life, the cattle remain on the farm before being transitioned to a finishing location.
While the cattle graze freely on pasture, their diets are supplemented with grain-based rations to fill any nutritional gaps, ensuring balanced growth and health. The Smiths grow much of their own feed but also source from local farmers. Pastures are equipped with salt blocks and mineral trays, offering essential nutrients and further supporting the animals’ well-being. The family uses a grain-finishing process to enhance this marbling, supplementing the animals’ natural pasture diet with carefully selected grains that contribute to the meat’s tenderness, flavor, and overall quality. This approach mimics traditional Wagyu practices.
To support optimal growth during this phase, the Smiths work with a Wagyu-specific nutritionist to develop tailored feed rations that enhance muscle development and fat distribution.
To further refine their breeding program, the Smiths conduct progeny testing—an evaluation method that tracks how specific sires influence carcass quality traits like marbling. By collecting and analyzing this data, they gain deeper insight into the effectiveness of their genetic pairings. This continuous improvement process is rooted in detailed tracking and a commitment to quality, ensuring that each generation of cattle is more consistent and higher performing than the last. This also allows them to maintain strict control over each phase of development, which is essential for accurate data collection and decision-making.
The family’s investment in premium genetics and long-term strategy is beginning to pay off. Some of the embryos they implanted in 2021 have now matured and are producing beef and pork that fill the family freezer. Turning an embryo into a finished steak is a three-year commitment—an example of the patience and dedication required to raise ethically managed, high-quality livestock. This kind of long-term vision sets the Smiths apart in a competitive and increasingly demanding beef market.
Beyond genetics, farm design and animal welfare are central to their success. The farm layout is designed to support the efficient movement of animals even in bad weather, with connecting alleys between pastures and working areas. This design minimizes animal stress and makes day-to-day operations smoother and safer. The family also carefully rotates cattle through pastures, ensuring that both land and animals are well cared for. This rotational system helps maintain pasture health, supports natural grazing behavior, and provides a more comfortable environment for the animals.
Lastly, the Smiths have embraced a holistic vision for their farm’s role in the Wagyu industry. In addition to raising beef, they export embryos and semen to help grow the Wagyu breed in the U.S.— a process slowed historically by limited imports. Their upcoming production sale will feature live animals and frozen genetics, allowing other breeders to benefit from their progress. Their processor also plays a key role, grading marbling based on the ninth rib and using that data to determine whether beef will be sold as steak or ground. Through these combined efforts, the Smith family is not only improving their own herd, but contributing meaningfully to the future of Wagyu cattle in the United States and beyond.
One of the distinctive and heartfelt aspects of Wilders Farm is how the Smith family raises their Berkshire pigs on open land rather than confining them in hog houses — a common practice in the area. This decision reflects the family’s core values, prioritizing animal welfare and natural behaviors over convenience and cost-efficiency. By allowing the pigs to roam freely, forage, and dig in the soil, the Smiths believe they’re not only improving the animals’ quality of life but also enhancing the flavor and nutrition of the pork. Jaclyn explained that it’s a choice they willingly make because it aligns with what they believe is right.
“Even though the economics might not work with what makes our hearts happy — it’s our piggy bank — so we can make that decision,” she said with a smile.
To further support animal health and responsible breeding, the Smiths rotate their sows and boars through designated areas, allowing plenty of space for movement and play. Jaclyn described the pigs’ joy in digging mud puddles and snuggling together — behaviors that highlight their intelligence and social nature. Currently, the farm raises between 100 to 150 pigs, with most reaching market readiness between 6 to 12 months of age. Special attention is given to the expectant sows, who are placed in dedicated maternity zones to provide a calm, nurturing environment for birthing.
With a background in education and real estate, Jaclyn brings a passion for teaching to the beef side of the business, likening it to selling homes — where explaining value, quality, and investment is key. While she focuses on customer education and sales, Reed dives deep into the genetic side of farming. Together, they emphasize the importance of educating consumers about the care, time, and ethical practices behind their Wagyu beef.
Through their e-commerce site, a general store in Clayton, and presence at farmer’s markets, they connect directly with customers.
Jacly shared that they often offer unseasoned samples of their product so that customers can taste the pure, unadulterated flavor of the meat. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many customers expressing their appreciation for the quality of the beef.
Although the region lacks the affluence of larger cities, Wilders has found deep-rooted support in their local community. They are especially grateful for customers who recognize and value their dedication to quality and ethical animal care. Looking ahead, their vision includes expanding their beef products onto restaurant menus nationwide while continuing to refine their herd’s genetics to consistently deliver top-tier Wagyu beef.
One of the most rewarding aspects of their journey has been the sense of belonging within the agricultural community. Jaclyn describes it as a network of hardworking, generous people who are eager to see one another succeed.
Through this network, the family has built lasting relationships with farmers both locally and internationally — from Australia to England, Scotland, and Canada — gaining valuable insights into global farming practices.
Their agricultural efforts are also deeply connected to their real estate and nonprofit work. Through One Compassion and the “Farm to Need” initiative, they help address local food insecurity by donating surplus products like ground beef to food pantries, effectively linking farmers, communities, and those in need.
The Smith family is deeply committed to sustainability and community support, making it a priority to use every part of the animal. Over two years, they refined their process based on customer preferences to minimize waste and maximize the value of each carcass, ensuring high-quality, thoughtfully crafted products. They also donate surplus cuts — especially ground beef — to local food pantries, helping address the frequent shortage of protein donations. This initiative not only provides nutritious food to those in need but also strengthens the connection between local farmers and their communities. Beyond their own farm, the Smiths actively engage with the regional farming network, attending cattle meetings and fostering relationships to support and uplift fellow producers. They are passionate about honoring the essential, often underappreciated role of farmers, who make up just 1% of the U.S. population yet feed the entire nation.
The Wilders farm has been evolving, with recent developments including the restoration of a greenhouse and the reintroduction of horses to a property built initially for cutting horses. While the farm now focuses primarily on Wagyu cattle, the family has maintained their connection to equine life through a riding arena and a performance horse division.
The farm is full of life and energy, especially in the evenings when the animals — horses included — often get the “zoomies” and playfully race around.
Looking to the future, Jaclyn told Duplin Journal that they hope to create a space for agritourism. Their long-term plans include offering hands-on farm experiences, educational opportunities, and rustic lodging for guests to immerse themselves in rural life. They’ve already built two cabins on the property, intended as future Airbnb-style accommodations. Though still in the early stages, this vision reflects their desire to create a sustainable and welcoming space where visitors can connect with animals, learn about ethical farming, and enjoy the slower pace of the countryside.
The University of Mount Olive recently announced that its reading clinic program received a grant of $67,725 from the Anonymous Trust for the 2025-26 academic year. This funding will support elementary students struggling with literacy while providing education majors with hands-on teaching experience.
“The UMO Reading Clinic is an innovative initiative that exemplifies a win-win opportunity for both our students and the community,” said Amanda Bullard-Maxwell, Assistant Dean of Education in news announcement. “Not only does it provide our future teachers with invaluable experience, but it directly reflects UMO’s commitment to community engagement and service.”
The program began as a pilot in 2023, working with 10 students from North Duplin Elementary. The clinic uses research-based resources like Flyleaf decodable texts and tailors instruction to each student’s reading level to provide personalized and effective literacy development.
“The students are always eager to learn, and they arrive at the clinic excited and motivated,” said Ashley Johnson, Associate Professor of Education and Fieldwork Coordinator at UMO.
“One student even tells his parents he’s ‘going to college’ when he comes for his tutoring sessions,” said Johnson. “It’s inspiring to see both the academic growth and the confidence these young learners are developing.”
The new funding — almost three times the original grant amount — will support several major upgrades, including expanded small group tutoring, a new summer reading camp, stipends for lead teachers, a partnership with Carver Elementary School, and efforts to widen the clinic’s impact across Duplin and Wayne counties.
“The continued generosity of the Anonymous Trust allows us to expand our reach, deepen our services, and ultimately impact more students and future educators,” Johnson said.
In an announcement made last week by House of Raeford Farms FLOCK, the Rose Hill non-profit celebrated a record-breaking fundraising achievement by Camp Corral totaling $80,479. The amount raised was possible with the help of a $30,000 matching gift donated by FLOCK.
The funds will enable 64 children of wounded and fallen service members to attend a week-long summer camp in Raleigh designed to support their emotional and developmental needs.
“FLOCK’s partnership with Camp Corral is fulfilling our mission of helping those who are called to do good, do more,” said Dave Witter, a member of FLOCK’s board of directors, in a news release.
According to the organization, FLOCK has contributed over $94,000 to the non-profit since 2022. Camp Corral provides activities that foster growth, confidence and connection, helping military children form lasting friendships and giving them a safe space to heal, grow and thrive.
“House of Raeford Farms FLOCK has, once again, given America’s military children a week of summer camp and a lifetime of memories,” said Sheri Oberhelman, vice president of development and outreach at Camp Corral. “Their support of Camp Corral’s mission has helped to change thousands of lives over the past several years.”
With over 3,000 campers registered for summer sessions this year, the ongoing support from donors like FLOCK gives kids a chance to find renewed hope. The camp often serves as a transformative milestone, helping children discover their inner strength, develop social skills, and connect with peers who face similar challenges.
“They are strengthening military families one child at a time by giving them a chance to build lifelong friendships, grow in their self-confidence, and realize their own strengths,” said Oberhelman. “On behalf of the entire Camp Corral team and the children we serve, thank you.”
KENANSVILLE — Concerns about hazardous road conditions and infrastructure needs took center stage on June 16 as county commissioners met to approve the FY 2025–26 Budget.
One significant concern raised was the accumulation of grass clippings on roadways after state-contracted mowing. Mayor A.J. Connors voiced the dangers posed by thick grass left on highways, especially after rainfall, which can make roads slippery and hazardous.
“I know the DOT contracts individuals to cut the grass on the side of the road, but by the time they come to cut, that grass is tremendously high, and when they finish cutting it, some of that debris — heavy chunks of that grass — is blown back into the highway. Yet they do not have a sweeper behind them to blow it off,” Connors explained.
He specifically noted that contractors often leave grass debris on the pavement, particularly on Carrolls Road near Highway 24, instead of blowing it onto the shoulder.
“It is a concern because it does get very slippery as bad as it’s been raining lately,” said Connors.
Commissioner Elwood Garner relayed a resident’s complaint regarding water backing up into a yard on Tram Road.
“Don’t know if it’s a culvert stop or an outflow stop, but water backing up in his yard next to the highway,” he told the board.
Chairman Dexter Edwards also relayed a resident’s complaint. This was about White Flash Road, where a beaver dam was removed a few months ago. Residents have noted that water is once again backing up toward the road.
“I’ve not been over to see it, but that’s what residents called and told me… Sounds like the beavers have gone back to work,” said Edwards. County Manager Bryan Miller was asked to
forward these issues to the Department of Transportation for further investigation.
The board then reviewed the fiscal year 2025–26 Duplin County budget. Miller explained to the board that since the public hearing on June 2, an additional $471,794 was added and offset by ad valorem revenue. This amount will be allocated primarily for insurance, equipment, personnel, and a capital improvement project at Duplin Commons — while maintaining the current tax rate of $0.58 per $100 valuation and fund balance of $7.7 million. The board adopted the budget unanimously.
In other business:
Miller shared that ticket sales for the Aug. 22 concert featuring Scotty McCreary at the Duplin Events Center are strong.
The board authorized the county manager to sign an amendment to the Daniels and Daniels agreement for two shell buildings at the airport and SouthPark. This amendment sets a guaranteed project maximum amount of $5.6 million based on contractor bids, which have already been received.
The board voted to reschedule their first July meeting to July 14.
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