Louisiana citrus growers reeling from Ida damage

Citrus trees at the Becnel’s family orchard were killed by a 10-foot storm surge brought by Hurricane Ida. Ben Becnel Jr. estimates that nearly 2,000 citrus trees were destroyed by the storm and 75% of his fruit was lost. (Photos by Craig Gautreaux/LSU AgCenter)
While Hurricane Ida came ashore more than two months ago, its effect on the Louisiana citrus and vegetable industry will be measured in years. Thousands of citrus trees were lost along with many fall vegetable crops across Plaquemines and St. Bernard parishes, according to LSU AgCenter horticulture agents serving those areas. Ben Becnel Jr. grows vegetables and citrus south of Belle Chasse with…

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