(Distributed 02/26/07) March 27 is American Diabetes Alert Day, an annual, one-day call to action for people to find out if they are at risk for diabetes. The Risk Test is an easy way to find out if you are at risk for diabetes. The test is available from the American Diabetes Association online at www.diabetes.org or by calling 1 888 DIABETES.

(Distributed 02/26/07) Consumers are encouraged to go "100% Fad Free" during March Nutrition Month, sponsored by the American Dietetic Association. This year’s theme reinforces the importance of nutrition as a key component of good health along with physical activity, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

(Radio News 02/26/07) A forest products expert wants Louisiana to become proactive in dealing with disasters that affect the state’s forests. Dr. Richard Vlosky says the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry is funding the development of the plan, and the LSU AgCenter will take a lead in its implementation. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 02/26/07) Louisiana's forests were heavily damaged by hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Combined, the storms damaged 4.4 billion board feet of saw-timber in Louisiana, according to LSU AgCenter forest products expert Dr. Richard Vlosky.

(Video 02/26/07) It may seem odd to talk about palms in late winter or early spring, but windmill palms can teach a lesson about growing conditions. Palms planted at the same time in the same general area may grow differently depending on how well the soil drains. (Runtime: 1 minute, 39 seconds)

(Radio News 02/26/07) Soy has many benefits for women. It is derived from soybeans and is found in a variety of different forms including soy milk, nuts, flour and tofu. Experts say it can alleviate symptoms of menopause and prevent bone breakdown. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 02/26/07) Incidences of school violence and violent behavior in youths have parents looking for ways to teach their children how to avoid this behavior and avoid becoming a victim. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 02/26/07) The first five years of a child’s life are critical in developing basic skills. LSU AgCenter family specialist Dr. Diane Sasser says parents should take an active role in teaching their little ones before children start school. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(TV News 2/26/07) Could freshwater drum be the heroes of the catfish pond? Research results show freshwater drum, or goo, could control snail populations that inadvertently are causing disease among catfish fingerlings. (Runtime: 1 minute, 29 seconds)

(Audio 02/26/07) Fertilizer does not go bad if stored properly. Most of the fertilizers we use will absorb moisture out of the air, which makes them difficult to use. For best results, store fertilizer in a sealed plastic bag or sealed plastic container.(Runtime: 60 seconds)