2004 AgMagic Photos (More)

The LSU AgCenter’s presentation of AgMagic was a big hit with thousands of schoolchildren and adults. The event, which saw the LSU AgCenter transform its Parker Coliseum in Baton Rouge into a place where people could learn about the wonders and magic of agriculture, ran April 20-29. It was aimed at urban children and adults to help them understand that food, clothing, lumber and other products that result from agricultural production don’t just come from a store. The event featured a variety of plants and animals and even included a small replica of a forest planted on the coliseum’s dirt floor. Participants learned about various Louisiana crops, such as cotton and sugarcane, as well as the state’s diverse forestry industry.

They also had the chance to learn about aquaculture and to interact with farm animals, such as baby chicks, a calf and a horse. Nearly 7,000 people – about a 2,000 more than expected for the first year of this larger scale event that replaced the traditional 4-H Mini Farm – participated in guided tours for school groups and the one public day of the event. LSU AgCenter Chancellor Bill Richardson said attendance was helped by partnering with the Capital Area Safety Council in offering a family safety day and with Louisiana Public Broadcasting and its “Share a Story” program, as well as a fitness program spearheaded by the YMCA.