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A Brief History of the Coastal Area Research Station
The Coastal Area Research Station, known originally as the Plaquemines Parish Experiment Station and then as the Citrus Research Station, was established in 1948 when the Plaquemines Parish Police Jury purchased 100 acres of land and donated it to Louisiana State University to conduct research, assist area farmers with agricultural needs and enhance agricultural endeavors. The first superintendent, Mr. Ralph Brown, served from Feb. 1, 1949, to April 1, 1978. Mr. Alvin J. Adams became superintendent upon Brown's retirement and served until his retirement on July 31, 1992. Dr. R. J. Constantin became resident director on Aug. 1, 1992, and served until August 1, 2002. Dr. Wayne Bourgeois was appointed at that time and served in that capacity until his death on May 30, 2005. Dr. Pamela Hodson, southeast regional director, served as resident coordinator from June through August of 2005. Dr. Richard Parish is currently serving as resident coordinator.
The station is located approximately 10 miles northwest of Port Sulphur on a strip of land extending to the Gulf of Mexico and is physically located between marshes and the Mississippi River levee. The station is located about 35 miles south of New Orleans and is blessed with semi-tropical weather in most years.
Plaquemines Parish has a thriving citrus and vegetable industry, which is vital to the local economy. The citrus and vegetable industry stretches the entire length of the parish on both banks of the Mississippi River from Venice near the mouth of the river to the upper reaches of the parish.
Until 2005, the station's primary focus was conducting citrus research. The research has resulted in the release of several new cultivars. The station provides facilities, equipment, land and personnel to research scientists from the Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station and cooperating agencies for the purpose of conducting both applied and basic research vital to the agricultural and scientific communities. Several of the collaborative projects include insect control studies, pesticide testing, salt intrusion, insect control, freeze protection and more.
On October 11, 2001, the station was devastated by a tornado that damaged the original office along with several buildings and much of the farm equipment. For almost four years the office was temporarily housed in one of the residences located on the station. Construction of a new office building (same location as old office) was completed in August, 2005. On August 29, 2005, the station was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. In addition to severe wind damage, the station was inundated by 5-6 feet of salt water. All buildings were destroyed or heavily damaged and all equipment was destroyed. Approximately 75% of the citrus trees were killed or damaged and had to be removed.
The station is now back in operation with a new emphasis. Although limited citrus work is continuing, the primary emphasis of the station is now on coastal plants -- salt-tolerant plants for marsh and coastal stabilization. Research on Formosan subterranean termites is also a major effort at present. Other agronomic and horticulture projects are underway with leadership by project leaders from campus.
The station is operating out of a temporary office trailer and a temporary shop facility until permanent facilities can be constructed.
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| Posted on: 7/25/2005 12:40:05 PM |
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