Beekeepers who will remove honeybees from walls, structures and trees or collect swarms. Some will remove other bees and wasps. Some travel across the state; others restrict their service area.

The Louisiana Master Farmer Program helps agricultural producers voluntarily address the environmental concerns related to production agriculture, as well as enhancing their production and resource management skills that will be critical for the continued viability of Louisiana agriculture.

Hundreds of sea oat plants bent in the breeze on a sandy beach as LSU AgCenter researchers walked among them, looking for plants with potential to help stem erosion on Louisiana’s Gulf Coast.

As a part of a state-supported aerial mosquito spraying program coordinated by the Louisiana Department of Heath and Hospitals, mosquito landing rate counts are required before and after aerial spraying is conducted.

Louisiana Wildlife News is a bimonthly publication intended to serve as an outlet for wildlife issues relevant to Louisiana and the Southeast. In addition to current news events, profiles on specific plant, wildlife and nuisance wildlife species are included in each issue.

A farm pond or recreational pond can serve many purposes: a source of food, an aesthetic enhancement to property, a sportfishing opportunity, a swimming area, wildlife habitat, or a reservoir for livestock, irrigation and fire fighting needs. The intended purpose or purposes should be well thought out before construction and stocking. This publication reviews planning considerations and management recommendations relating to a number of potential uses for small ponds in Louisiana.

Dates, times and locations of Master Farmer training opportunities in north and central Louisiana.

Information on recirculating production systems, fingerling sources, stocking and harvest management, regulatory considerations, economics and markets are included in this publication. (PDF Format Only)

Photos of certified Master Farmers from around the state pose with several LSU AgCenter employees that coordinate the Master Farmer Program.

Agriculture is a multibillion dollar industry for Louisiana -- creating jobs and generating income in rural and urban areas. This publication contains facts about Louisiana's agricultural commodities, agriculture's monetary value in 2010, what agriculture is and what agriculture means to you. (PDF Format Only)

We are seeing a decline in some insect populations but some explosions in others. Here are some potential problems this month.

Natchitoches Parish Master Farmer Participants

Field days and activities that fulfill Phase II requirement for the Louisiana Master Farmer program.

Jefferson Davis Parish Master Farmer Participants

Livingston Parish Master Farmer Participants

Best management practices (BMPs) are a set of practices used by farmers to reduce the amount of soil, nutrients, pesticides and microbial contaminants entering surface water and groundwater while maintaining or improving the productivity of agricultural land. This list of BMPs is a guide for selection and implementation of practices that will help swine farmers conserve soil and protect water and air resources by reducing pollutants. (PDF format only)

Describes the process of inspecting the interior of a structure for the presence of a termite infestation.

Describes the behavior and biology unique to the Formosan subterranean termite.

Describes the taxonomic identity of termites.

Evangeline Parish Master Farmer Participants

Claiborne Parish Master Farmer Participants

A total of 135 agricultural producers are now certified Master Farmers in the Louisiana Master Farmer Program. Eleven producers from around the state were certified at the Louisiana Association of Conservation Districts Annual Meeting in Lafayette on January 12, 2012.

Tangipahoa Parish Master Farmer Participants

Avoyelles Parish Master Farmer Participants

Pointe Coupee Parish Master Farmers Participants

Acadia Parish Master Farmer Participants

Master Farmer Program Participant List: Lafourche Parish

Vernon Parish Master Farmer Participants

East Carroll Parish Master Farmer Participants

Calcasieu Parish Master Farmer Participants

Iberville Parish Master Farmer Participants

This article discuses the Christmas Tree farm industry in general, then describes the most common tree species found in Louisiana, and gives some tips on choosing the right tree and keeping it healthy.

2012 Louisiana Arborist Continuing Education Workshops calendar, agendas and links to registration.

Termite colonies contain different castes, which are responsible for specific taskes in the colony.

Louisiana has stepped out ahead of all other states in the nation in helping farmers learn to voluntarily comply with stricter environmental regulations governing water quality. This has happened because of the LSU AgCenter’s Master Farmer Program.

Information about Formosan subterranean termite alates and their annual mating flight.

Describes the habits of drywood termites including pest and damage identification.

Includes images and descriptions of subterranean termites that are indigenous to Louisiana.

Additional information about the habits and identification of Formosan subterranean termite soldiers.

A short video demonstrating how to inspect a tree for the presence of Formosan subterranean termites.

Attached is a list of professional engineering and planning firms that have experience in developing SPCC and SPC plans. Producers and companies needing plans are greatly encouraged to contact these companies and seek their guidance in implementing the practices required by SPCC/SPC. Firms that are not listed, and would like to be included in this list, are requested to contact Dr. Ron Sheffield at rsheffield@agcenter.lsu.edu.

Conflicting information and media coverage about hazards of mold and how to handle mold problems have left many people confused, concerned and sometimes frightened. If you have or suspect a mold problem in your home, this fact sheet will help you make well-informed decisions about how to fix the problem and prevent its return.

This is a short video showing typical swarming behavior of Formosan subterranean termite alates during their annual mating flight.

Termites may eat wood, but they could not do it alone.

2011 Louisiana Arborist Continuing Education Workshops calendar.

Franklin Parish Master Farmer Participants

Allen Parish Master Farmer Participants

Washington Parish Master Farmer Participants

Vermilion Parish Master Farmer Participants

Ouachita Parish Master Farmer participants

Lincoln Parish Master Farmer Participants

St. Mary Parish Master Farmer Participants

Catahoula Parish Master Farmer Participants

Madison Parish Master Farmer Participants

Tensas Parish Master Farmer Participants

Concordia Parish Master Farmer Participants

Sugarcane is the highest-valued row crop grown in Louisiana. For sugarcane production to continue to thrive in Louisiana, responsible management of soil and water resources should be a priority. This guide lists the Best Management Practices (BMPs) to use in Louisiana sugarcane production. (PDF Format Only)

West Carroll Parish Master Farmer Participants

In the right conditions, molds multiply and can release enough spores in the air to cause health problems.

Information on Phorid flies creating problems in hurricane damaged areas. They feed on and develop in decaying vegetable and animal material.

Richland Parish Master Farmer Participants

The goal of the EPA's SPCC program is to prevent oil spills into waters of the United States and adjoining shorelines. Oil spills can cause injuries to people and damage to the environment. A key element of this program calls for farmers and other facilities to have an oil spill prevention plan, called an SPCC plan. These plans can help farmers prevent oil spills, which can damage water resources needed for farming operations.

Information from the The BMP Design Workshop held on June 13, 2006. The curriculum is primarily for engineers, landscape architects, architects and planners. Topics include: What is a Design Storm?, Stormwater BMP Maintenance, Stormwater Wetland Design and Bio-retention Design.

Information from the Stormwater Academy workshop held on June 12, 2006.

(Video 11/21/06) Discussions of forestry best managment practices related to drainage in building roads during harvest. (Running Time: 60 seconds)

Louisiana accounts for 80 percent of the nation's coastal wetland loss. Simply put, a large proportion of Louisiana acreage is wetland. Much of the state's economy depends upon wetlands. Find information on causes of wetland loss, definitions of wetlands and wetland functions and values. (PDF format only)

The EPA Stormwater Phase II program went into effect March 10, 2003 for urbanized areas with population densities of over 1,000 people per square mile and other designated areas. At this time the Stormwater control program for all small construction sites (1 to 5 acres) also went into effect. The program requires all affected areas to obtain a general permit and to file a Stormwater Management Plan for their Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4).

The purpose of this publication is to document what is deemed as accepted and approved planting, management and harvest procedures for a variety of species planted in Louisiana for wildlife management purposes by LSU AgCenter personnel. In all cases, the greatest possible window of opportunity has been provided as to planting dates, planting practices and other management activities as they relate to overall management. (PDF Format Only)

Winn Parish Master Farmer Participants

Caldwell Parish Master Farmer Participants

Beauregard Parish Master Farmer Participants

Grant Parish Master Farmer Participants

Rapides Parish Master Farmer Participants

Terrebonne Parish Master Farmer Participants.

Iberia Parish Master Farmer Participants

Lafayette Parish Master Farmer Participants

East Baton Rouge Parish Master Farmer Participants

St. Landry Parish Master Farmer Participants

St. Martin Parish Master Farmer Participants

Master Farmer Participant List: St. Charles Parish

Properly identifying the ant species is the first step in determining whether and how to control them. In this publication there are options for managing various kinds of imported fire ant problems.

Authorities are releasing a natural enemy of the pink hibiscus mealybug to try to bring this insect, which is a danger to both nursery and agricultural crops, under control, LSU AgCenter entomologist Dr. Dale Pollet said Tuesday (Oct. 10, 2006).

This interactive and fun quiz will challenge your knowledge of Red Imported Fire Ants.

Morehouse Parish Master Farmer Participants

Follow these 12 easy steps to make and maintain your compost pile. (PDF Format Only)

Discusses the inspections and maintenance associated with handling storm water on small constructon sites.

Demonstrates the construction pollution prevention plan through images, illustrations, and examples.

Demonstrates construction BMP's through various images and illustrations. Topics include: Erosion Control, Sediment Control and Stormwater Management on Construction Sites and Urban Areas.

Discusses the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) pertaining to storm water management on small construction sites.

Discusses and demonstrates ways to prevent pollution in water.

Discusses the causes and mitigations of soil erosion by water through a presentation created by the NRCS.

Assumption Parish Master Farmer Participants

Ascension Parish Master Farmer Participants

Attached are copies of an Example SPCC plan and a template that can be completed for farms wishing to self-certify their own plan instead of hiring a company to assist them. Only Tier 1 farms may develop their own plan without the approval from a professional engineer. Tier 1 farms have a fuel/oil storage capacity less than 10,000 gallons, no underground tanks and no single tank greater than 5,000 gallons.

This guide will answer some of the most commonly asked questions about tree planting in the area. It suggests native and well-adapted trees for our region and describes how to grow them successfully. The tree illustration fold-out can also be used as a poster (22" x 34").

Fire ants can be a serious problem after hurricanes – particularly in flooded areas, according to experts with the LSU AgCenter.

The University of Arkansas General Fumigation Training Manual covers fumigation of structures, food, raw commodities, soil, and agricultural sites.

Visit the Louisiana State Arthropod Museum (LSAM) Web site for information about insect identification and diagnostic services--a one-stop identification service for insects and related arthropods.

If a honey bee swarm or colony is located in area well traveled by the public, it would be in the best interest of the city or agency to have the bees removed as soon as possible. This document provides information local officials can use to plan and prepare.

A lawn that’s properly cared for and healthy will resist weeds and other pest problems. Following the best management practices (BMPs) in this publication should help keep your lawn in good condition.

12 topics covered include various practices that can contribute to non-point source pollution emanating from a home. Steps and practices are provided that can prevent non-point pollution from entering storm water runoff.

Union Parish Master Farmer Participants

Sabine Parish Master Farmer Participants

West Baton Rouge Parish Master Farmer Participants

Master Farmer Program Participant List: Orleans Parish

The Louisiana Master Farmer Program is targeted at helping agricultural producers voluntarily address the environmental concerns related to production agriculture, as well as enhancing their production and resource management skills that will be critical for the continued viability of Louisiana agriculture.

On March 10, 2003, the Small Construction Site Stormwater Program went into effect.

BMPs for poultry farms are a specific set of practices used by farmers to reduce the amount of soil, nutrients, pesticides and microbial contaminants entering surface water and groundwater while maintaining or improving the productivity of agricultural land. This BMP manual is a guide for the selection, implementation and management of those practices that will help poultry farmers conserve soil and protect water and air resources. (PDF format only)

Composting fish waste is a relatively new, practical and environmentally sound alternative to disposing of fish waste. It is an economical, fairly odorless and biologically beneficial practice for seafood operations. This publication explains that a commitment to proper management of the compost bins is the key to successful composting. (PDF Format Only)

(Video) The LSU AgCenter’s entomology department works to keep agriculture in Louisiana viable, homes relatively pest-free, and people and animals safe from disease-carrying insects.

Detecting termites in trees can be helped by a few tips on where to look.

Treatments for termites must be integrated with proper maintenance. Eliminate as many conditions conducive to termite infestations as possible by following the five general categories of rules.

This publication is intended to help local and municipal governments address potential concerns or problems between the public and beekeepers. (PDF Format Only)

Pier and beams construction can make temite tubes visible if good contruction techniques are followed

Standard Conditions, Scientific Collecting (wild birds): 50 CFR 21.23 Conditions.

Learn how to inspect and treat your home for Formosan subterranean termites.

Linepithema humile (Mayr), the Argentine ant, is an important invasive species that has great impact on agriculture, urban and natural environments worldwide. This poster discusses the basic nest biology and structure of the Argentine Ants.

Red River Parish Master Farmer Participants

St. Helena Parish Master Farmer Participants

Bossier Parish Master Farmer Participants

Caddo Parish Master Farmer Participants

St. John Parish Master Farmer participant information.

St. Tammany Parish Master Farmer Participants

Webster Parish Master Farmer Participants

Cameron Parish Master Farmer Participants

DeSoto Parish Master Farmer Participants

East Feliciana Parish Master Farmer Participants

Jackson Parish Master Farmer Participants

Blueprints to help you build a beehive or honey extractor. (PDF format only)

Map showing parishes that have a spreader available for use in area wide application of fire ant baits. Listing of locations by parish that have implemented the area wide program.

Bienville Parish Master Farmer Participants

Poster for the Fight the Bite campaign.

The 3-dimensional structure of tetrahydronootkatone and nootkatone was determined. A description of our methods and results are provided.

Fire ants may be an indoor problem during the dry season as they search for water and food. The mounds move below the surface but they will still forage for food during the cooler times of the day.

PowerPoint on spring honey and pollen sources. Among those included: White Dutch Clover, Vetch, Verbenia, Wisteria, Mint, Willow, American Buckwheat Vine, Tallow, Magnolia, Orange Citrus, Passion Vine, Black or Honey Locust, Crimson Clover, Sweet Clover.

Homeowners in South Louisiana and elsewhere in the Gulf South who are rebuilding after last year’s hurricanes have opportunities to add more termite protection to their homes, according to experts with the LSU AgCenter.

New invasive that has been found in Louisiana. Information and pictures of this new pest.

This BMP manual is a guide for the selection, implementation and management of practices that will help growers conserve soil and protect water and air resources. (PDF format only)

Hunters and land managers are always seeking new and more innovative ways to improve the quality and attractiveness of their hunting areas. “What should I plant to attract and hold deer on my hunting area?" Find your answers in this publication. (PDF Format Only)

Mosquitoes buzz around Louisiana every day of the year. More than 60 species inhabit the state. While many are benign, some are carriers – or vectors – of several worrisome diseases. It's everyone's responsibility to keep their numbers down.

Thirteen field days and workshops have been held during the spring and summer of 2009 that fulfilled the requirements for Phase II and Continuing Education. Over 300 attendees participated in these events that were held all over the state. Other agencies, such as NRCS, helped coordinate and present at these functions as well.

Master Farmer Program Participant List: Jefferson Parish

Master Farmer Program Participant List: St. Bernard

Master Farmer Program Participant List West Feliciana Parish.

Master Farmer participant list for LaSalle Parish.

Master Farmer Program Participant List: St. James Parish

List of sources of supplies for beekeepers in Louisiana.

Provides additional links for information on termites.

These guidelines are intended to help manage smoke and ash from sugarcane prescribed burning operations to lessen their impact on public health and welfare.

Native subterranean termites are found throughout Louisiana and are a natural part of the environment in Louisiana. Formosan subterranean termites, native to East Asia, arrived in the United States after World War II and were established in New Orleans by 1966.

Things to consider when constructing or renovating a home to protect your house from termites.

Considerations on integrated pest management of termites and other wood attacking organism are presented in depth.

Landscaping practices may increase the risk of subterranean termites attacking a structure and of spreading Formosan subterranean termites. Information is presented on the types of woody plants that termites attack and methods of inspection.

This article describes a stainless steel mesh that may be used as a barrier preventing termites from entering structures around specific routes of entry .

BMPs for aquaculture enterprises are a specific set of practices used by growers to reduce the amount of soil, nutrients, pesticides and microbial contaminants entering surface water and groundwater while maintaining or improving productivity. This BMP manual is a guide for the selection, implementation and management of practices that will help growers conserve soil and protect water and air resources. (PDF format only)

One important key for successful management of a pest is to identify it. This publication can help you differentiate between ants and the dry-wood and subterranean termites that are pests in Louisiana. It also contains specific information on Formosan subterranean termites.

Best management practices for logging landings, decks and sets and what to avoid.

Best management practices for revegetation as well as equipment maintenance and litter.

A Southern IPM Center publication. When choosing a broadcast bait to control imported fire ants, consumers and professional pesticide applicators face a confusing array of brand names and active ingredients with varying product performances. This guide addresses common concerns about broadcast baits to help consumers and professionals choose products that best fit their needs and situations. (PDF Format Only)

This poster addresses where Argentine Ants are found in Louisiana, as well as cost-effective ways to control them.

Master Farmer national curriculum PowerPoint presentations

Master Farmer phase 1 recap and reviews.

(Distributed 05/26/11) The warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico produce nearly 30 percent of domestic seafood in the United States. Due to its diet of phytoplankton, our wild-caught seafood is more heart-healthy than farm-raised warm-water seafood from other parts of the world, said LSU AgCenter seafood specialist Lucina Lampila.

The process of removing honeybees from walls in a house is complex. This publication explains how to safely and properly remove the bees from your walls. (PDF format only)

Ants range from mildly irritating to highly annoying. Knowing the species, its biology and potential control methods can help you manage them. This is a useful reference for pest management professionals, extension personnel and homeowners. A key to ants, color photographs, diagrams and a glossary are included. Spiral-bound copies are available for $12.50 each. To purchase using a major credit card, click on "order publication."

This publication inventories the functions and values of the Barataria-Terrebonne Estuary System at the interface of the Mississippi River and the Gulf of Mexico, and it chronicles the serious plight of landscape deterioration facing its inhabitants. (PDF format only)

The red imported fire ant, a Louisiana resident since the early 1950s, can be a painful pest or a beneficial friend. Depending on your situation, you may want to manage these ants or simply let them go about their helpful way. Eradication vs. management of the fire ant is discussed in this fact sheet.

The Argentine ant, an exotic species brought to New Orleans from South America in the late 1800s, is found throughout the state after being transported in nursery stock and by cars, boats and RVs. Their huge colonies, with millions of workers and hundreds of queens, extend for miles. Identifying characteristics, areawide management and cultural controls incuded. (PDF Format Only)

LSU AgCenter scientists continue to add weapons to their arsenal as they battle the spread of the Formosan subterranean termite. And they’re making headway. This pest voraciously consumes wooden structures and woody plants and causes millions of dollars in damages.

(Video) Christian Richard, who farms 2,000 acres of rice, soybeans and crawfish in Kaplan, was named the 2010 Outstanding Louisiana Master Farmer. Bruce Schultz, communications specialist, joins him in his tractor cab as he’s planting rice to talk to him about farming and the latest technology he uses. (5 min.)

(Video) Bobby Morris is a fourth generation farmer who specializes in sugarcane. He thinks farming is the perfect lifestyle that allows him to involve his family in his profession. (4 min.)

(Video) Dennis Kieffer is a cattle and hay producer and farm manager in Wheeling in Winn Parish. His company, Circle K Cattle, oversees both registered and commercial herds. Learn more about the Louisiana's cattle industry. (4 min.)

(Video) For three generations, the Gravois family has worked the fields near Vacherie in St. James Parish producing sugarcane, cattle and soybeans. Gravois was the 2011 Louisiana Farmer of the Year. (4 min.)

They can travel across a country or even traverse continents in a suitcase or shoe, and they’re infamous for infesting intimate locations – beds. Now the fabled bedbug is infesting beds around New York City, and some people are concerned if the bugs will spread.

Caution is the rule when dealing with black bears. Black bears, unlike brown, grizzly or polar bears, seldom attack people. Over the decades and with countless opportunities, only a few records exist of black bears attacking humans. (PDF format only)

This publication is designed to educate small to medium-sized primary and secondary forest products industry personnel about why and how to market wood products. Hobbyists and producers of wooden arts and crafts also will benefit by learning the necessary marketing skills to increase revenue and make their part-time business or hobby less expensive. (PDF format only)

This publication contains a variety of information about 53 Louisiana plants that can serve as nectar sources for honeybees. Illustrated by color photos of each plant, the 32-page guide includes descriptions of the plants and the honey produced from each source. It also includes a handy chart showing the blooming season for each plant. Cost: $10 plus tax and shipping. You can order this book through our online store by using the Order Publication link below.

Lumber scraps and cross-sections of angle cuts sawed from small logs or large limbs can be made into attractive items, but only if the wood is first treated with polymers and then properly seasoned, or if the wood is initially seasoned following special techniques. This publication describes some techniques of stabilizing and bending wood for hobbyists. (PDF format only)

At most every stage of woodwork construction, there is a need for quality gluing. Gluing allows you to use many pieces and parts of boards that would otherwise be scrap. All in all, proper gluing is a must. (PDF format only)

Africanized honeybees were brought to Brazil in 1956 to improve local strains. In 1957, several colonies escaped. Once established in Brazil, the Africanized honeybees moved north up the east coast of South America and into Central America. During the next few years, they increased their northward expansion through central Texas, New Mexico and Arizona, reaching Southern California in 1994. (PDF format only)

The process of removing honeybees from walls in a house is complex. Most people think they only have to spray and kill the bees. This would be effective if they were yellow jackets or hornets or even bumblebees. Honeybees, however,require a more demanding process. (PDF format only)

For an increasing number of forest landowners, a forest is an investment. Understanding the basics of forest investments is essential in planning for long-term maximum benefits. (PDF format only)

The chances of poultry and other domestic birds acquiring mosquito-transmitted encephalitis viruses are relatively low, according to an LSU AgCenter expert, who says you also can take precautions to further reduce that risk.

An historical overview of Louisiana fisheries in the context of pre- and post-levee construction on the Mississippi River. Data from the Caernarvon Freshwater Diversion is used to describe the relationship between freshwater re-introduction and estuarine fisheries productivity. The report characterizes the conflict between Louisiana’s short-term and long-term goals of coastal restoration and coastal fisheries management.

More than 75% of Louisiana’s coastal wetlands are privately owned, yet the majority of restoration funding provided through federal and state initiatives is directed toward large-scale, public restoration projects. This report compares and contrasts the programmatic and economic aspects of the coastal and inland models of wetland restoration that have evolved in Louisiana over the past decade.

This document provides a synoptic overview of this 40-year-old navigation channel from project inception through modern day. Economic and environmental impacts related to the MRGO are documented for St. Bernard Parish and potential restoration scenarios are described. Additional information is provided on the time and financial resources required to fully address the environmental degradation caused by the MRGO.

One of the biggest questions that has arisen in recent years involves the apparent disparity in federal restoration funding provided for the Florida Everglades versus that provided for coastal Louisiana. This document uses published reports and secondary data to develop a parallel comparison of Florida and Louisiana wetlands at the state, regional, program and resource levels.

This 52-page pocket guide is designed to help you identify pests commonly found in and around buildings. It includes photos and information about various pests, such as ants, roaches, flies, rats, mice, termites, spiders, wasps, bees, bedbugs, fleas, mosquitoes, ticks and more. Diagrams and scales showing the size of some of the pests are included to help in identification. A spiral-bound, heavyweight, coated-paper copy is available for $12.

Urban areas with their concentrations of people, vehicles, homes, parking lots, streets, small and large business, industry and sewage can create heavy loads of pollutants in their stormwater runoff.

Termites can not eat through solid concrete. In order to enter a structure they must come up around the outside edges or enter through some other opening in the slab. Traditional termite treatments require the application of a continuous chemical barrier to the soil around all possible entry points.

This poster discusses the specific characteristics used to identify Argentine Ants.

This handbook serves as a quick reference or guide to aid in understanding and solving problems that require calculations. Aquaculture involves problem solving and knowing how to perform various calculations correctly. This capability can translate into economic benefits and sound management decisions. (PDF Format Only)

This poster discusses natural feeding preferences, adapted feeding preferences and feeding strategies of the Argentine Ant.

2008 issues. Topics include: Thrips, Florida Wax Scale, Lace Bugs, Whiteflies, Aphids, Firewood Insects, Asian Lady Beetles, Potted Plants, Case-making Clothes Moth, Bees, and Wasps.

Tentative new format for posting Bugs, Bugs, Bugs Newsletter

2006 issues. Topics include: Fire Ants, armyworms, Carpenter Bees, Mole crickets, Chafers, White grubs, Mites, Psocids, Hibiscus Midge, and Fungus Gnats.

Azalea Lace Bugs, Spider Mites, Carpenter Beetles, Honeybees, Shot Hole Borers, Ant Lions, Dragon Flies, Earwigs, and Damsel Flies.

Topics include: strawberry/scarlet-bodied wasp moth, bed bugs, horse-hair worms, spiders, Colaspsis beetles, Colorado potato beetles, and Leaf miners.

Most people are aware of the damage fire and severe weather can do to their homes, but many overlook the threat of termites. Photos of termite damage and signs of termite infestation are included in this publication, which covers Formosan subterranean termites and other subterranean termites.

LSU AgCenter faculty members are working on plans to put the Formosan subterranean termite research project in New Orleans’ French Quarter back on track after the recent hurricanes.

A scourge of New Orleans and South Louisiana could find its way to other parts of the state and country if people move wood that’s infested with Formosan subterranean termites.

A list of Louisiana's Natural and Scenic Rivers with accompanying descriptions. Included is a link to more detailed information regarding Louisiana's Natural and Scenic Rivers.

This poster addresses habitat preferences and where Argentine ants can be found.

New invasive found in Louisiana. Sciotothrips dorsalis (Hood), the chilli thrip, is a pest of tropical and subtropical regions. Established populations were first found in Florida in 2005, in Houston on landscape roses in 2007 and New Orleans on Knock Out roses in 2009.

Volume 73 is a special edition dealing with mosquito spraying and support for beekeepers who lost hives to the hurricanes.

Two distance education teleconferences were conducted by the North Central Region Integrated Pest Management Center in June 2005. The presentations covered biological questions and control options.

Stormwater is the water that runs off the land following rains. It is the primary source of most of the water in our rivers and streams.

West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne disease that can cause encephalitis, or a brain infection. Mosquitoes acquire the virus from birds and pass it on to other birds, animals and people.

It has been an on again-off again honeybee season, and the weather has not really cooperated for the bees -- first, too dry and too hot; now too wet in some areas for the bees to work efficiently.

There are two majors types of termites in Louisiana: Subterranean and drywood. The subterranean termites are divided into two subgroups: The native subterranean termites and the Formosan subterranean termite. Determining the type of termite is important for management.

A poster containing information on how to protect yourself from mosquitoes.

Identifying to species, recognizing problems and having a sound knowledge of control techniques can help in solving a termite problem.

To prevent the depletion of the Sparta Aquifer, it is mandatory that everyone conserve, and not waste, water. These nine tips will help sustain this valuable source of drinking water.

Total the number of times you do each of these activities throughout a week. Then multiply by the number of gallons of water used. You may be amazed, and dismayed, by how much water you waste.

Formosan and subterranean termite biology, ecology and behavior are compared and contrasted.

Document containing the Louisiana Pesticide Law.

A document containing the Louisiana Pesticide Rules and Regulations.

This is the first issue of a newsletter intended to communicate new information and recommendations for fire ant management and other ant problems in Louisiana. This issue focuses on current methods for community-wide fire ant control.

Argentine ants have been reported in a few isolated areas in Louisiana. These ants are different from fire ants in appearance, nesting habits and behavior. These differences make control efforts different as well.

Troubleshooting: Symptoms, possible causes and prescriptions for your composting problems. (PDF Format Only)

Fleas developed on Earth thousands of years ago and have adapted many survival techniques. In Louisiana, they are pests in and around homes and on pets and other animals year round. Control measures and insecticides to use included. (PDF Format Only)

A grassy plant used worldwide for erosion control and a new pop-up termite indicator may provide new, environmentally safe weapons in the arsenal to combat subterranean termites.

Managing in Tough Times provides helpful information for families experiencing a disaster, such as how to manage family finances, keep the family strong and stay healthy. Topics include financial survival tips, getting the most from what you have, what bills to pay first, making meaning our of adversity, helping children cope with crisis, keys to coping with stress and cutting food costs.

A TMDL is a pollution budget for a specific waterbody (river, lake, stream, etc.). It is the maximum amount of a pollutant that can be released into a waterbody without causing the waterbody to become impaired and/or violate state water quality standards. Information on point and nonpoint sources and the history of TMDLs is included.

The expansion is part of a federally funded test program dubbed Operation Full Stop, which is looking for ways to control the destructive creatures.

(Distributed 04/29/04) LSU AgCenter entomologists confirmed that termites found the week of April 18 at a home in Pineville were Formosan subterranean termites. This is the first sighting of the pests in the Alexandria area. These termites pose a greater threat than the native species because they form larger colonies, are more aggressive and form carton nests above ground.

Discusses forest fertilization and pesticides, best management practices for application of silvicultural chemicals, and what to avoid.

A process for recycling treated wood products could save on disposal costs and liability concerns by keeping treated wood out of high-cost landfills, according to developers at the LSU AgCenter.

Overview of methods used to conserve water and reduce pumping costs on farms.

The ability of farmers to burn sugarcane is a significant economic factor for the state’s sugarcane industry. Burning of sugarcane before harvest eliminates from 30 percent to 50 percent of the leafy trash (residue), which constitutes from 20 percent to 25 percent of the total weight of the plant.

The yearly flights of the Formosan termite have fluctated in numbers caught in light traps among the years.

There are many things everyone can do to help conserve water when they are at home.

Detecting and repairing leaks is one of the main components of water conservation. Old or poorly constructed pipelines, inadequate corrosion protection, poorly maintained valves and mechanical damage are some of the factors contributing to leakage.

Water loss from a water distribution system is a significant factor affecting water delivery to customers. Water loss can be either apparent losses due to meter inaccuracies or unauthorized consumption, or real losses due to leakage at water service lines.

There are may easy and practical ways to cut back our water use in our yards and gardens.

This page lists several questions for facility managers to help gauge a facility’s present water-efficiency performance.

Simple tips on how to conserve water in the workplace: educate your employees and coworkers; know your usage; identify and fix leaks; maximize the efficiency of your cooling tower; install water efficient equipment; minimize the use of water for cleaning purposes.

Insect problems in swimming pools and solutions for getting rid of them.

Which composting system is right for you? Find the answers and more in this helpful guide to composting. (PDF Format Only)

Stepping outdoors was like being under attack for one homeowner. Fire ants were everywhere in her yard. Her sister’s pasture also was under siege. So they turned to an LSU AgCenter entomologist for help. (Runtime: 1 minute, 47 seconds)

This survey of loggers in Maine and in eight southern states, were conducted to gain additional information about the logging community and to provide a basis for validating the results of the Logging Capacity Study. This Logging Capacity Study is reasonably representative of the logging population except that it does not appear to be representative of those loggers who work fewer than 200 days per year. This study appears to be representative of 89% of the wood production in the South.

The winners of the 2006 honey competition competed in three categories: Light Honey, Amber Honey and Dark Honey. Due to the reduced number of entries, the competition will be discontinued at the state fair. The competition will be moved to the state beekeepers meeting if enough requests are made for it to continue.

This poster discusses background of Argentine Ants, baits that are cheap and effective for indoor use, and outdoor ant control.

It’s been an exhausting year with all that has happened. We have the African honeybee in three parishes; we had hot, dry weather that reduced the honey crop; the price of honey went down; and we had not one but two hurricanes that tried to blow us all away or drown us.

The public can order any fire ant bait through local hardware stores, nurseries or coop/feed stores.

(Distributed 05/25/05) What to do with decommissioned, preservative-treated wood has become a burning issue. Well, not burning, actually. That’s one of the methods that can’t be used any longer, according to Dr. Todd Shupe of the LSU AgCenter.

To date, 92 producers have completed the requirements for becoming Certified Master Farmers.

The commissioner of agriculture in Louisiana imposed a quarantine for the Formosan subterranean termite on October 3, 2005, in Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson, Jefferson Davis, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. John the Baptist, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa and Washington parishes. The Formosan subterranean termite is the most destructive insect in Louisiana.

Twenty-seven farmers, including three couples, joined an elite group of 92 that have been certified as Louisiana Master Farmers. The 27 were recently honored at a luncheon held at the Annual Meeting of the Louisiana Association of Conservation Districts in January 2009.

Termites can’t hold their breath forever, although they have a capacity to live under water for a significant amount of time, according to a world-renowned termite expert. That means termites in areas flooded by the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina may not be as prevalent as they have been for a while – offering a small grain of good news among the massive destruction.

The Louisiana Master Farmer Program awarded its first annual Outstanding Master Farmer award at the Louisiana Association of Conservation Districts annual convention on January 8, 2009. A certified Master Farmer who has shown dedication to agriculture, conservation, and his profession is chosen for this award .

This article provides a brief overview of the information provided by the quality mark on treated lumber.

Certified forests may be the next trend in lumber marketing, but non-industrial, private forest landowners generally are unwilling to foot the bill, according to a recent study.

BMPs for aquaculture enterprises are a specific set of practices used by growers to reduce the amount of soil, nutrients, pesticides and microbial contaminants entering surface water and groundwater while maintaining or improving productivity. This BMP manual is a guide for the selection, implementation and management of practices that will help growers conserve soil and protect water and air resources. (PDF format only)

The Louisiana Master Farmer Program is an effort to demonstrate that agricultural producers can and will voluntarily reduce the impact that agricultural production has on Louisiana’s environment.

Links to other useful sources on water quality.

This publication includes a description of wireworms and explains the importance and types of injuries they can cause to your trees. It also includes information on their life history, habits and methods of control.

Contact information about the Master Farmer Program.

Trees on home grounds or in parks are assets to everyone. Trees also are long-term investments for property owners. Like any investment, trees require effort to maintain their value. That means tree owners must make careful decisions about care and maintenance, which may require the occasional advice and service of a professional – an arborist. (PDF format only)

A monthly fisheries newsletter from the LSU AgCenter and Louisiana Sea Grant.

Recent wild fires in various states have led foresters/firefighters/land managers to seriously investigate and execute the methods required to carry out a successful fuel reduction project. A survey was mailed to target these types of individuals nationwide. The analysis resulted in classifying mechanical and burn only operations based on the nature of projects.

This exploratory study examined current and potential use of the Internet to conduct business and market products by the wood products industry in Louisiana. Respondents were asked to discuss their current or planned Internet strategies and impacts that are perceived to exist or could exist with Internet linked exchange partners.

This paper compares the use of extranets between the forest products industry and other U.S. business sectors. Extranets are secure networks that electronically link companies over the Internet. Results of the study indicate that the forest products industry uses extranet-based business applications with less frequency than other industrial sectors, receives fewer benefits and has greater concerns from using this business tool.

In this working paper we examine the use of the World Wide Web by primary wood products exporters. The study discovered that respondents used the Web mostly for promotion activities. The study also found that currently, multilingual Web sites are not likely to be more successful in reaching their objectives than English-only Web sites.

The objective of this study was to determine U.S. home builder and architect use of tropical hardwood products. The results of the study indicate that just under half of respondents are engaged in purchasing or specifying tropical hardwood products and that, for the most part, tropical hardwoods account for a small percentage of wood product purchases by US home builders.

In this research, a study was conducted on the major certification schemes currently in operation. A comparison of these schemes was made. Analysis of the principles applied by these schemes was also made while certified areas by the various schemes was also identified and presented as part of our comparison of the schemes.

At present, there are several leading certification programs in operation. This paper reviews the history of forest certification, development of different certification schemes, their progress and current issues.

The objective of this study was to compare paper supplier and buyer perceptions regarding using eIntermediaries to conduct business. Results indicate that paper buyer and supplier respondent attitudes and expectations regarding the use of eIntermediaries do not differ significantly. In addition, neither group has a strong desire to use eIntermediaries.

The forest sector is an important component of the economy of Ecuador. This paper discusses the current situation of the forest sector and a planning framework that can contribute to crafting national policies to promote a sustainable forest sector for Ecuador.

In this study we looked at US South homeowner awareness of treated wood issues and their perceptions about using treated wood indifferent possible applications in and around their homes. Although there was some confusion among respondents on what types and brands of treatments exist in the marketplace, there appears to be a bright future for treated wood in homebuilding and remodeling application in the US South.

The eBusiness revolution is impossible to ignore. It has transformed businesses in virtually every industry and reshaped the global economy. In this study, we research to further describe factors that influence the success of an extranet implementation in business.

Successful Internet-based business practice adoption and implementation is contingent on a number of factors. In this paper, we examine the influence of corporate culture on Internet adoption. Although not all results were statistically significant, all were directionally as hypothesized with a high marketing orientation being more positively correlated to perceived Internet implementation effectiveness.

In our previous study, the NIPF of Louisiana indicated that Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) would be most acceptable to them as a certifying agency. A key question remained, however: Is the approach currently utilized by the LDAF to implement Stewardship an equivalent surrogate for certification? This research attempts to answer that question by comparing the Louisiana Forest Stewardship Program with the guidelines of four sustainable forest management standards.

In this research, we studied how the paper industry makes use of E-commerce. We conclude that the paper industry is aware of the potential gains to be made by creating an effective supply chain management systems communicating through the Internet. E-commerce has provided new applications for use in the paper industry customer interface including e-marketplaces, EDI connections and papiNet.

In this report we provide some statistical information on the nature and scope of occupational injuries in the logging industry in Louisiana from 1985 through 1998.The data presented in this report are based on reportable claims (fatality, a permanent disability, or a disability resulting in more than 7 lost calendar days) which were received by the Office of Workers' Compensation between 1985 and 1998 for employees covered under the Louisiana Workers' Compensation Act.

In this paper, we discuss the results of Ready-To-Assemble (RTA) furniture market research which was conducted to better understand the current dynamics in this furniture sector. Within the furniture industry, the RTA furniture segment is a high growth segment which is likely to continue to outperform most other segments in the industry. We conclude that for individual manufacturers to succeed, quality, pricing and, above all, design has to be progressive and competitive.

This paper presents an overview of key drivers which are going to bring wide spread usage of remote sensing in the forest products industry. The article also discusses reasons behind the surge of interest in remote sensing, surveys its present status in the industry, and attempts to envision the short- and medium-term future.

The objectives of this study were to examine the use of some lesser-used wood-based inputs and to determine their selection criteria by furniture and cabinet manufacturers in the Southern United States. In this research we found that no respondents used OSB (oriented strandboard). Respondents in all industry sectors studied said that they planned to increase usage of lumber and plywood. We also found that the main reason respondents are not using OSB, LVL, PSL and LSL is customer objections.

A study was conducted in 1999 to study eBusiness in the pulp and paper industry in the United States and Canada. This study indicates that Canadian and U.S. pulp and paper respondents were fairly evenly matched in Internet implementation in 1998. They had similar concerns and faced similar impediments. This report presents the main study findings.

This study identifies Louisiana non-industrial private forest landowner attitudes toward forestry certification. The result of the studies identified that NIPF goals and objectives for their forestland are diverse. In the context of forest certification, initiatives are being developed by certifiers to accommodate the unique ownership characteristics of NIPFs.

This paper reports the results of some informal sound level readings made of the logging industry.

In this research, we studied the legal aspects and the various relevant clauses of a timber sale contract. We conclude that while a good contract is important, it is no substitute for being present at the work site. The landowner should walk the tract with the logger before commencement of the operations and visit the site often during harvesting. This way, problems can be prevented, and both parties will be much more satisfied.

This study was undertaken to update the knowledge base on adoption of Internet-based information technologies in the U.S lumber industry. Results indicate that respondents that adopted Internet-technologies did so because they found them to be an important tool in conducting business and in meeting their corporate needs.

In this research, we study Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) and buyer-supplier relationship. This paper presents the report of the study. Some of our conclusions are that forest products companies that have developed good working long-term relationships with home center customers are likely to have difficulties in adapting EDI into their business.

Over the past decade, the Ghana timber industry has experienced major changes that have subjected the industry to severe pressure regarding raw material availability and a struggle for efficient use of limited available timber. This research evaluates the impact of government interventions in the forest product trade and the marketing implications.

This paper describes a model that examines how corporate culture impacts IT adoption. Future research will include testing the model in the forest products industrial sector in the United States.

The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between age and environmental perceptions. The context is environmental issues and “green certification” in the forest product industry. We conclude that most of the differences that are due to age and gender may be due to income and class or culture.

The study discussed in this paper, conducted in 2000, indicates that overall growth of Internet use in the wood forest products industry in the United States is expected to increase in 2001. Larger firms, typically lead technology adopters, are predominant users of the Internet for eBusiness and are more likely to continue to be predominant eBusiness technology implementers in the future.

This paper seeks to provide guidance, understanding and reasons why private landowners should consider forest certification. It is also a useful source of information on types of certification systems available to date and more importantly the steps necessary to follow to achieve certification.

In this research, we study the history of the various processes of harvesting, skidding and transportation practices used in the Cypress Swamps of the Southern United States.

In this study, we surveyed U.S. Extension professionals on their employment experiences and personal perceptions about scholarship and service. Further, we segmented the results by U.S. census region to identify similarities and differences between regions. Overall, respondents receive satisfaction more important than scholarship in their jobs.

In this research, we studied Ghana's wood products sector and its competitiveness in the international wood products market. Our conclusions are that Ghana’s wood products industry can be competitive if changes are implemented collectively and in a coordinated and cooperative fashion by all stakeholders. These changes include improving processes and procedures in wood products value and supply chains and taking a more proactive approach in resource utilization and creating effective market.

In this study, we studied how the Rural/Urban Digital Divide could be bridged. We conclude that internet is becoming an invaluable tool for development. However, there is a challenge of how to ensure that all participants, industrialized and developing, urban and rural, rich and poor, and all races benefit from this technology. America should strive to turn the digital divide into digital opportunities to maintain economic growth.

The findings of this research indicate that a reduction in air-dried lumber production in Ghana was significantly and negatively related to imposition of the air-dry levy but had no significant relationship with raw material levels. It was further observed that products that are processed further downstream, including rotary and plywood, could not be significantly affected by the strategies.

In this study, we investigate four dimensions of customer interface IICT adoption. Our findings indicate that customer interface IICT adoption can improve information sharing with customers, reduce operational inefficiencies along the value chain, enhance the competitive position in the market, and deepen customer relationships. Business impacts were perceived to be positive across all tested constructs.

This paper empirically tests a theoretical model that makes the connection between organizational resources and capabilities and successful IICT adoption. Results suggest that, in addition to a robust information technology (IT) infrastructure, investment in organizational change management, the ability to sense changes in the technology environment, development of managerial IT knowledge, and a culture of freely shared internal information are key to a company's IICT development.

This paper highlights the success of LSU AgCenter and Honduras Participatory Forest Sector Development program. We conclude that success of development projects such as this will be measured in the future by the ability to encourage environmentally sound forest management practices and sustainable growth of the forest based industry sector.

In this research, we studied the implications of digital divide for African business development. We conclude that in order for the digital divide to be closed in Africa, the importance of the Internet and why it is needed has to win the hearts and minds of Africans.

In this study, we research US imports of tropical hardwood. The results indicate that the U.S. imports 161 different species of tropical hardwoods, 20 percent from Africa, 43 percent from Asia, and 37 percent from Latin America. However, importers are often resistant to market new tropical wood species as it is difficult to introduce new species that compete with species currently accepted in the market.

This issue contains: Director’s Message; Chitosan-metal Complex Helps Protect Engineered Wood Products; Louisiana Launches Forest Sector Economic Development Web Site; Input-Output Applications to Forest Product Sector Development; Forest Product Activities at Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry; LSU AgCenter Establishes Center; "Meet" our Graduate Students, Research Associates, Post-docs, and Visiting Students and Professors.

Articles in this issue of the newsletter include: Director's Message, LFPDC Has First and Second Place Award Winners, Engineered Wood Composite Program on the Run, Wood Products Extension Programming, E-Commerce Opportunity for Wood Products, An Economic Opportunity for Reducing Forest Fuels, Vlosky to Lead UNECE Marketing Team, Treated Wood Research Series.

Articles in this issue include: Extension Expands Reach of Louisiana Forest Products Development Center, We Have a New Name, Chancellor Holds Industry Roundtable on Louisiana Forest Sector Development, Lumber Quality and Lumber Yields at Small Lumber Processing Operations, Wood-based Composites Research at the LFPDC, LFPDC Celebrates 10th Anniversary, Formosan Subterranean Termite Product Testing.

The following articles are presented in this issue: Director’s Message, Preliminary Investigation of Bio-composites Fabricated From Liquefied Wood/Phenol/Formaldehyde Co-condensation Resin, Nanoassembly on Recycled Fibers to Improve Resource Utilization, Using GPS to Document Skidder Motions, Unprecedented Economic Development Opportunities, Roy O. Martin Lumber Company and Martco Limited Partnership Experience With FSC Certification.

Articles in this issue include: LFPDC Director’s Message, Rutherford Named New Director of the School of Renewable Natural Resources, Vlosky Participates in Forest Products Marketing Capacity Building in Europe, LFPDC Receives $170,000 Grant to Build Extrusion Capability, Value-Added Wood Products Extension at LFPDC, LFPDC Hires New Value added Extension Faculty, Vlosky Named to Louisiana Forestry Association Board, Fragmentation Challenging Louisiana Forests Owners.

Articles include: Director’s Message, Storm Clean up?, Experts Say Forest Management Requires Environmental Component, CBIT works with LFPDC on Supply Chain Initiative and Web Site, Process Holds Promise For Recycling Pressure Treated Wood, Forest Products Economic Development Update, Mechanical Forest Fuel Reduction vs. Burn-Only, Tax Incentive Programs Offered for Louisiana Companies.

The following articles are presented in this issue of the newsletter: Unified Efforts, Governor's Forest Products Industry Task Force, New Extension Service Employee, Accidents Rate: Are we Measuring the Wrong Thing?, Louisiana Forest Products Laboratory Conducts Marketing Study in Northwest Louisiana, Lumber Drying Workshop and Small Wood Products Business Workshop.

Newsletter articles: Research Initiative on Wood-Based Panel Products Funded; Drying Operation Analysis; Touching Base With the Louisiana Forest Products Lab; Workshop on Cooperative Extension; List of Research Briefs, Visual Productions, Working Papers, Fact Sheets, and other Reports; Wood Products Research Offers Plan to Boost Northwest Louisiana Economy.

Articles in this newsletter include: How We Touch Louisiana, Description of the Expertise of the Forest Products Laboratory, Combined Efforts to Develop Termite Field Site, Using Near Infra Red Spectra to Link Wood and Genetic Properties.

Articles covered in this issue of the newsletter include: Workshop on Water Quality, Hardwood Workshop at Louisiana Tech., Welfare Reform and Forest Products Industry Development in Louisiana, The Second Annual Lumber Drying Workshop, Worldwide Concern of Resource Quality.

Articles in this issue are: LFPL Steering Committee Helps Set Path For Year 2000, Controlling Wood Moisture Content to Prevent Panel Warping, Linking Resource Characteristics to Product Characteristics, Louisiana Value-Added Wood Products Industry Report Now Available, A Softer Way to Harvest Timber.

Articles in this issue include: A Call For Action For Louisiana Forest Products Industry Develoment, Opportunity for Horizontal Diversification in Manufacturing Value-Added Wood Products, Studies on Warping Behavior of Overlaid Particleboards.

Articles in this issue of the newsletter include: FRA Gulf-States Forest Products International Trade Center (GULFPIC), Louisiana Style of Log Yard Profile, Studies on Oriented Strand Board, A Farewell Message to Dr. Rado Gazo.

Newsletter articles: Training Programs for Louisiana's Forest Products Industries Needed, New Study on Employment and Training Needs in the Louisiana Value-Added Wood Products Industry, LSU Forestry Club Students Go to Forestry Conclave, LFPL Researchers Turning Louisiana's Wood and Ag Residues into Fire Logs.

Articles in this issue include: Developing Termite-resistant Structural Wood-based Panels from Southern Wood Species, LSU School of Forestry Adopts New Name, Formosan Subterranean Termite-resistant Wood-based Materials Under Investigation, Marketing Program Helps Louisiana Producers, Accident Analysis Saves Lives in Logging Industry, Can Decommissioned CCA-Treated Wood Be Used for Structural Flakeboard?

In this issue, we present the following articles: Grant Awarded for Employment, Development Study; Research on Environmental Certification Finished; Causes & Analysis of Warp in Overlaid Furniture Panels; Third Annual 3-Day Lumber Drying Workshop to be Held February 24-26 in Baton Rouge; Hardwood Workshop Set for Louisiana Tech.

Articles in this newsletter include: Louisiana Forest Products Laboratory is Up and Running, Helping Louisiana Producers to Promote their Products, LFPL at Louisiana Tech University, SERBEP Study Yields Unexpected Result, Knowing Your Accidents, Software for the Rough Mill.

Articles in this issue of the newsletter include: LFPDC Enhances Economic Development in Louisiana; An Integrated Market-based Methodology for Value-added Solid Wood Products Sector Economic Development; Metafore, LSU AgCenter team up in Tropics; Properties of Bagasse Fiberboard Studied; First Memorial Lecture Features First Grad Student; Guide to Raised Floor Systems Now Available; LFPDC Researchers Look at Sugarcane Rind as a Raw Material for Composite Panels.

A trailer that breaks down on the road can ruin a good fishing trip. It is even worse if an accident results from the breakdown. To help prevent breakdowns, it is important to service your trailer regularly. Here are typical items to consider in establishing a maintenance program. (PDF Format Only)

Video streams of felling and skidding activities and BMPs associated with felling and skidding

This video describes proper site preparation and reforestation best management practices, including reasons why proper site preparation and reforestation are so important. Included in the discussion are ground cover to minimize soil erosion and the environmental benefits of quickly establishing a new forest.

Best management practices for site preparation and reforestation.

This section describes useful steps forest landowners can take to ensure that their forestland is protected and managed sustainably.

This form should be completed prior to commencement of commercial harvesting activities adjacent to natural and scenic rivers.

BMPs for chemical use and application in forest wetlands.

Description of circumstances where site preparation activities do or do not require a permit.

Mandatory best management practices for road construction and maintenance in forest wetlands

Best management practices for harvesting operations in forest wetlands.

Describes best management practices for permanent and temporary roads in forest wetlands, including 15 federally mandated best management practices for roads in forest wetlands.

Describes BMPs for location and planning of permanent forest roads.

Topographic maps defined and described, including scale, relief and slope.

This article describes the planning-stage process of evaluating of a drainage area or watershed prior to initating a forestry-related activity.

Wood is a renewable natural resource that, if properly treated, maintained and placed in service, will last indefinitely. It is critial for us to use our wood resources efficiently. Wood decay and most insect problems can be prevented for years by properly using and protecting wood. This publication is intended to increase your knowledge of the causes and control of wood decay, degradation and stain.

Information card on tackling termite problems when beginning a renovation project

Information card on places to look for Formosan subterranean termite Infestations

Information card on where to look for termites in trees.

(Distributed 09/04/08) Hurricane Gustav put a lot of limbs and whole trees on the ground in various areas of the state, and many people already are working on cleanup efforts. An LSU AgCenter forest safety specialist says safety should be a major consideration during those efforts – particularly when it comes to use of a chainsaw.

(Distributed 09/05/08) Most of the mosquitoes being bred in the standing water left in Louisiana from Hurricane Gustav are not the kind that carry West Nile virus, according to LSU AgCenter entomologist and mosquito expert Wayne Kramer.

(Distributed 09/10/08) Hurricane Gustav caused many problems for people throughout Louisiana, and wildlife also are feeling the effects of the storm.

This publication gives several tips on how to pump less water and to make sure your pumping plant is being used as efficiently as possible. (PDF Format Only)

Washwater is a necessary part of alligator production, but so is the management of the water. (PDF Format Only)

Importance of Soil Fertility, Method for Proper Soil Sampling, Interpreting Soil Tests, Adjusting pH, Available Forms of Lime, Available Forms of Sulphur, Applying Fertilizer and Examples of Applications included. (PDF Format Only)

Louisiana’s coastal wetland forests are of tremendous economic, ecological, cultural and recreational value. But many acres of these forests have disappeared over the past century, and many more are being degraded or lost each year.

A description of how biomass is being used for energy in Louisiana with an emphasis on the potential for expansion in the industry. (PDF format only)

Why be concerned? Too often, we think of ourselves as external to our environment. We ignore the many relationships among people, other living creatures and our surroundings. We ignore these relationships at our own risk. Solutions to environmental problems are far more effective when all life forms are considered part of the ecosystem.

Growing conditions last summer and a mild winter means growers helped foster high levels of nematodes in many fields. Planting corn instead infested areas can be the solution because the crop is a poor host.