From 1938 through 2004, the production of Burley, flue-cured and other tobacco types was limited to specific regions in the U.S.A. However, as a result of deregulation legislation adopted in October 2004, tobacco types can now be produced in any region of the country with a suitable production environment and purchasing infrastructure. In 2005, approximately 250 flue-cured producers in North Carolina produced Burley for the first time. Based on successful production in 2005, it is expected that the number of producers will increase to 300 or more, and production will double to 2.7 to 3 million kg in 2006. The objectives of this research and extension effort are to: 1) Develop the research base needed to provide production recommendations, and 2) Mechanize harvest and stripping operations primarily through the adaptation of existing technology. Studies were initiated in 2005 and continued in 2006 to determine: optimum planting and harvest dates to maximize yield and quality, and minimize labor conflicts between flue-cured and Burley operations; proper nitrogen rates; impact of fatty alcohols on phytotoxicity; and the performance of automated and semi-automated cutting-notching harvest systems. In 2005, yield was nearly 25% less for Burley planted in late May or early June compared to that planted the first week in May. In addition, Burley harvest occurred before the end of flue-cured harvest at all planting dates. Burley yield was higher at 280 Kg N/ha than at 200 Kg N/ha and the plants tolerated two applications of C-10 fatty alcohol without injury or leaf drop. Cutting and notching at harvest with an adaptation of the University of Kentucky machine was much less consistent than cutting and notching in separate operations. Conveyor type stripping aids reduced labor by 40%. In 2006, the Kirpy harvester from France will be evaluated.