LSU AgCenter

Hail damages portion of rice crop

Rice plants are recovering from a hailstorm last week, but yield losses are expected in some fields. The storm hit on the night of May 26. The National Weather Service indicated hail up to 2 inches in diameter fell on a 200-square-mile area of southwest Louisiana, mostly north of Welsh and Jennings.

Survey shows crawfish income down, season shortened

Results from a survey of crawfish producers show that decreased demand for their product is resulting in lost income of about $500 an acre and a season that could end about 40 days sooner than usual in some cases.

Ag centers bring buyers to small farmers

Small-scale vegetable growers in St. Landry Parish recently met face-to-face with major produce buyers in the area to discuss ways to market their produce.

Deadline approaching for LSU AgCenter Leadership Program

The LSU AgCenter Agricultural Leadership Development Program aims to provide potential leaders involved with agriculture and agribusiness the tools they need to become effective advocates for agriculture.

Rice production sustainability increasing

LSU AgCenter scientists and researchers were among the presenters at the National Conservation Systems Cotton and Rice Conference on Jan. 31 and Feb. 1.

LSU AgCenter holds rice clinics

In a series of meetings in southwest Louisiana, LSU AgCenter experts offered farmers advice for growing their 2019 crop. Farmers met in Welsh, Abbeville, Ville Platte and Crowley and attended sessions held Jan. 3-10, only a few weeks from the start of planting season.

Move tender container plants inside for winter

Louisiana gardeners often use containers of tender tropical plants on decks, patios and porches and in courtyards to provide color and beauty through the summer.

LSU AgCenter names new rice research administrators

The LSU AgCenter has named Don Groth as the new resident coordinator of the H. Rouse Caffey Rice Research Station. Kurt Guidry, director of the LSU AgCenter Southwest Region, made the announcement Oct. 3) at a meeting of the Louisiana Rice Research Board.

Chinese group learns about alligators at LSU AgCenter

A group of Chinese crocodile farmers, tanners and others who work in the industry visited the LSU AgCenter Aquaculture Research Station and Department of Textiles, Apparel Design and Merchandising during a trip to Louisiana from Sept. 6 to 8.

Dry weather spurs harvest

Louisiana farmers are benefitting from long overdue dry weather that has allowed them to cut hay, harvest soybeans and plant sugarcane. “This spell of dry weather will let us get a lot done,” said Vince Deshotel, LSU AgCenter county agent in St. Landry Parish.