The economic downturn affects agriculture just as it does the rest of the economy. LSU AgCenter economists offer their predictions for Louisiana agriculture in 2009.

You’re not alone if you’re experiencing financial pain during these tough times. The number of people claiming unemployment benefits has reached a record number, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Dozens of big businesses have announced massive layoffs. Some workers are keeping their jobs but finding their salaries cut. Retirees watch while their nest eggs dwindle in value.

Not only do Louisiana strawberries taste good. They’re good for the state’s economy. And this year Louisiana strawberry growers have had a jump on success with an earlier-than-usual season.

The 74th LSU AgCenter Livestock Show begins Feb. 14, with the concluding awards ceremony on Feb. 21, at the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales. Working with livestock helps young people develop knowledge, a sense of responsibility and skills that last a lifetime. That philosophy is at the core of the LSU AgCenter’s livestock educational programs for youth.

2008 had many ups and downs for Louisiana farmers. The outlook was good as the New Year started, but economic and weather conditions didn’t remain favorable. LSU AgCenter economist Kurt Guidry looks back at 2008 and ahead to 2009.

The nation’s financial crisis is casting a shadow on Christmas. Unemployment rates are high, and budgets are tight. The financial uncertainty has many people cutting back this holiday season. LSU AgCenter family economist Jeanette Tucker recommends approaching spending this season the way one should every year – with a plan and a budget, even if that budget is smaller this year.

Louisiana’s got milk because the LSU AgCenter supports a research program that helps keep the Louisiana dairy industry surviving and thriving. In 2007, Louisiana had 207 dairy operations that contributed nearly $200 million to the state’s economy. The concentration of dairy research is at the LSU AgCenter’s Southeast Research Station in Franklinton.

The 2008 State Fair of Louisiana, Oct. 23-Nov. 9 in Shreveport, is dedicated to Louisiana 4-H to help celebrate the centennial of the youth organization. The fair theme is “Celebrate and Educate!”

Routines are an important part of a baby’s life. Every day parents feed their babies and bathe their babies. But do parents routinely read to their babies? The LSU AgCenter started the Little Bookshelf program to encourage parents to read to their babies daily.

Much of Louisiana’s cotton crop was open and ready for picking when hurricanes Gustav and Ike raged into the state in early September. What’s left is about half of the once-promising crop destroyed. All together, LSU AgCenter economists are predicting losses nearing $1 billion to Louisiana farmers, ranchers, foresters and fishers and to the industries’ infrastructures and support services.