The Idlewild Station already was part of a statewide network of research facilities operated by the LSU AgCenter. But the new facilities will house a variety of LSU AgCenter research and extension faculty. They also mark a move toward greater emphasis on programs dedicated to forestry and wildlife at the facility.

The research station, under the direction of Dr. Dearl Sanders, encompasses 1,800 acres, including 300 acres in improved pasture, 150 acres in open grass, 70 acres in lakes and ponds, 1,100 acres in woodlands, 50 acres in tree fruit research and 50 acres in deer impoundments.

Research includes work with peaches and other tree fruit, beef cattle, weed control and wildlife, Sanders said. The station features a herd of 220 captive whitetail deer and 58 captive red deer.

"Our research in wildlife and forestry is critical for the entire state," said Dr. Paul Coreil, vice chancellor and director of extension with the LSU AgCenter.

Coreil cited the work LSU AgCenter state wildlife specialist Dr. Don Reed does with hunting clubs on deer management as important for Louisiana outdoor activities.

Reed is one of several research and extension specialists at Idlewild.

The facility will continue to house the staff of the LSU AgCenter’s research station as well as become the new home of the East Feliciana Parish Cooperative Extension Service offices, according to Dr. Pam Hodson, LSU AgCenter regional director.

"This is one of the first facilities to merge the research and extension activities," Hodson said. "This will allow us to maximize our resources and bring information from our researchers and our extension agents."

Coreil said he expects the LSU AgCenter personnel to retain their close association with local government as part of the federal, state and local partnership in extension.

"It’s critical for our existence," he said.

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Contact:
Dearl Sanders at (225) 683-5848 or dsanders@agcenter.lsu.edu
Pam Hodson at (985) 543-4129 or phodson@agcenter.lsu.edu
Paul Coreil at (225) 578-6083 or pcoreil@agcenter.lsu.edu
Writer:  
Rick Bogren at (225) 578-5839 or rbogren@agcenter.lsu.edu