By Amanda Kerr
As a child in Tyner, North Carolina, Lilah Byrum grew up with an agricultural background. She and her parents raised cattle as a hobby, and many of her extended family are in row crop production.
Inspired by her passion for agriculture, Byrum, who is serving as the 2026-27 North Carolina Watermelon Queen, wants to help raise awareness about the industry and the farmers who grow our food.
“Although I grew up around cattle and row crops, I believe it is important to understand every part of agriculture so I can better advocate for our industry,” says Byrum, who is majoring in crop and soil sciences with a concentration in agronomy at NC State University. “I wanted to become the North Carolina Watermelon Queen because it gives me the opportunity to promote agriculture while representing an incredible group of hardworking growers.”
As Watermelon Queen, Byrum visits schools, festivals, farmers markets and retail events, representing the North Carolina Watermelon Association across the state to help educate consumers about the tasty, quintessential summertime treat. She also meets with industry leaders and legislators to advocate for growers.
Source : ncsu.edu