Agriculture

Despite predictions by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, LSU AgCenter experts say 2008 rice acreage likely will be up in Louisiana.

A low worldwide supply of rice has led to a dramatic increase in prices, according to LSU AgCenter rice specialist Dr. Johnny Saichuk.

Using Louisiana sugar mills to produce biofuels and value-added chemicals in addition to sugar can help the state’s sugar industry become a driving force for economic growth in Louisiana and produce alternative fuels to satisfy the state’s demand, LSU AgCenter researchers told the U.S. secretary of energy Monday.

Louisiana landowners will have the opportunity to learn about carbon credits and how they may benefit at a conference on May 14 at Alexandria, according to the meeting’s organizers.

The LSU AgCenter has scheduled a variety of model farm field tours this spring and summer for producers who need to complete the second phase of the Louisiana Master Farmer Program and learn about specific conservation practices.

A Southwest Louisiana farmer has found his niche by growing aromatic rice, and he’s eager for the release of a new LSU AgCenter variety to compete with rice imported from Thailand.

Three-quarters of Louisianians have favorable opinions of farmers and farming in Louisiana, according to a recent statewide survey.