Agriculture

First instance of apple snails damaging rice crop reported

An invasive species of snails has wiped out a 50-acre field of rice, the first time the pest has been known to do that in Louisiana. LSU AgCenter entomologist Blake Wilson said damaged rice and apple snails were found throughout the field. “There was no trace of rice.

Crawfish farmers urged not to drain ponds yet despite drop in sales

ABBEVILLE — Crawfish producer Allen McLain’s business has dropped dramatically because of the coronavirus’ impact on the restaurant business. “We’re struggling. It’s not looking good,” said McLain, of Abbeville.

Rice crop starting well, planting continues

Rice planting is nearing completion in southwest Louisiana, where most of the state’s rice is grown, and it has begun in northeast Louisiana.

44 graduate from Louisiana Master Cattleman course

The LSU AgCenter recognized 44 graduates from the Louisiana Master Cattleman program during a field day on March 7. The Louisiana Master Cattleman Program is a commodity-specific program designed to help beef producers become more profitable and environmentally sustainable.

AgCenter researcher receives distinguished service award

LSU AgCenter plant pathologist Don Groth received the Distinguished Service Award from the Rice Technical Working Group on Feb. 26.

AgCenter experts offer rice farmers tips

Rice farmers preparing for the 2020 crop heard recently from LSU AgCenter experts about what they should be considering before they get into the fields. The meetings were held in Welsh, Vidrine and Crowley, and more are scheduled. Don Groth, resident coordinator of the LSU AgCenter H.

Arrests made for livestock theft in Avoyelles Parish

The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) Livestock Brand Commission arrested five men on Tuesday for their alleged involvement in the theft of two horses in two separate incidents in Avoyelles Parish. Armaud R.

Winter is the best time to plant pecans

Cooler weather is perfect for planting trees and shrubs in Louisiana. Fall and winter are both great times, but especially winter. Trees and shrubs slow their growth in winter, particularly the above-ground portion of the plants.

Chinese rice buyers tour LSU AgCenter facility

A group of seven Chinese rice buyers visited the LSU AgCenter H. Rouse Caffey Rice Research Station Dec. 12 as part of their tour through U.S. rice-growing areas. During the visit, China and the U.S.

Study looks at second-crop rice, crawfish production

An LSU AgCenter and Louisiana Sea Grant agent is studying the effects of crawfish production following a second crop of rice. Mark Shirley is conducting the study requested by farmers who want to know to what extent harvesting a second rice crop will affect their crawfish.