RALEIGH, NC -- The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is activating a toll-free hotline for farmers in the event of agricultural damage caused by this weekend’s extensive rainfall.

Farmers can call 1-866-645-9403 to connect with resources to help with recovery from flood or wind damage and power outages.

“With all the rain anticipated across the state this weekend, the probability of agricultural damage is very real,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “We are ready to help connect farmers with local resources right away.”

Farmers who have an agricultural emergency can call the hotline 24 hours a day. The hotline will be staffed 24 hours a day through the weekend and department officials will extend the availability if needed.