MOULTRIE — As the 2009 Spotlight State at the Sunbelt Agricultural Exposition, North Carolina is showing off its diverse agriculture.

Nick Lassiter of the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, said it was very exciting to be this year’s Spotlight State. It gives the state a chance to bring exposure to its agricultural contributions to the region and the nation. The theme for the exhibit is “Got to Be N.C.”

“This is a good opportunity to showcase agriculture from all across North Carolina,” Lassiter said. “It is an opportunity to sample all of North Carolina.”

Nick Augostini, from the state’s Department of Agriculture, said visitors to the state’s exhibit will see all North Carolina has to offer. Visitors can learn North Carolina leads the nation in sweet potato and tobacco production and is second in the nation for turkey and Christmas tree production.

Visitors can also learn about the state’s work with North Carolina State University and its extension services, Augostini said. N.C. State does a lot of work researching products such as biofuels for everyday use.

In addition to the agricultural aspects of the state, Augostini said visitors can sample some of the products produced in North Carolina. Packages of Lance crackers and Tom’s Snacks potato chips, made in North Carolina, were available.

Visitors can also see a display of produce grown in North Carolina on a carriage with a special painted horse, Augostini said. The horse, featuring an “American Gothic” recreation, was painted two years ago as part of a contest for high school students.

Race fans can also see the Farm Bureau-sponsored Toyota Camry, Jay Boyette of the North Carolina Farm Bureau said. Farm Bureau is sponsoring the Joe Gibbs Racing Sprint Cup car as a good way to promote the company.