(Distributed 10/06/08) Ray Schexnayder farms 1,800 acres of soybeans in Pointe Coupee and West Baton Rouge parishes. Hurricanes Gustav and Ike left his fields scattered with tree limbs, and some covered with water. “We had 200 acres that flooded. There’s nothing to them, just a little dry stem now.”

(Distributed 10/03/08) The aftereffects of two hurricanes last month are still being felt in north and south Louisiana rice fields.

(Distributed 10/01/08) Baldcypress (Taxodium distichum) is Louisiana’s state tree, and it is one of our featured trees at LaHouse on the LSU campus in Baton Rouge. As one of our most distinguished native trees, it is one of the top five tree species planted in Louisiana landscapes.

(Distributed 09/30/08) Ten LSU AgCenter faculty members were part of a multi-state team that received the 1st Place National and Southern Region Program Excellence through Research Award at the Galaxy III National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (NEAFCS) conference held Sept. 15-19 in Indianapolis, Ind.

(Distributed 9/29/08) ABBEVILLE – The LSU AgCenter is working closely with the Louisiana Cattlemen’s Association, state Department of Agriculture and Forestry and the Louisiana Farm Bureau to get affected cattle producers back on their feet along coastal Louisiana following hurricanes Ike and Gustav.

(For Release On Or After 10/31/08) Few flowering bulbs can surpass the stately beauty of the amaryllis. Typically blooming in April, this popular bulb is a star performer in the spring garden.

(For Release On Or After 10/24/08) The seasons are changing, and we are entering a transitional period in the flower garden when warm-season bedding plants begin to fade and cool-season bedding plants are planted to provide fall, winter and spring color.

(For Release On Or After 10/17/08) As the days shorten and temperatures gradually become cooler, it is apparent summer is finally ending. Lawn care definitely begins to change during this time of year.

(For Release On Or After 10/10/08)In my previous column I discussed weed control in the landscape. I focused primarily on preventive and corrective methods of controlling weeds without using herbicides.

(Distributed 09/29/08) Louisiana 4-H’ers will join others across the country in the celebration of National 4-H Week Oct. 5-11. The main focus of the week is to celebrate the accomplishments of the young people, volunteer leaders and parents involved in 4-H Clubs – as well as to encourage others to become involved in the unique youth development program.

(For Release On Or After 10/03/08) There are lots of reasons why we shouldn’t let weeds grow in our landscapes.

(Distributed 09/26/08) The totals related to hurricanes Gustav and Ike include up to $763 million in lost revenue to Louisiana farmers, ranchers, foresters and fishers and as much as $175 million to $200 million in additional damage to the equipment and facilities that form the industries’ infrastructure.

(Distributed 09/26/08) One of the most exciting new plants for home gardeners released in the past few years has been the Knock Out rose. It is receiving a lot of attention, and rightfully so. More than 6 million plants are being sold every year across the country. This rose fits perfectly into a sustainable, low-maintenance landscape.

(Distributed 09/25/08) Louisiana waterfowl hunters should make sure they are following the law when hunting in crop-damaged areas of the state this year, according to a wildlife specialist with the LSU AgCenter.

Following are pages of photos shot by AgCenter Communications photographers of the effects of hurricanes Gustav and Ike on agriculture and communities in Louisiana. They include photos from three of the AgCenter research stations in the Baton Rouge area – Sugar Station, Central Station and Burden Center. The photos include the photographer’s name and the date the photo was taken.

(Distributed 09/23/08) The 2008 Fall Garden Show in New Orleans will be held at the City Park Botanical Garden from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Oct. 18-19.

(Distributed 09/19/08) Healthy trees can make for safer neighborhoods and healthier relationships between neighbors, according to an urban forester with the LSU AgCenter.

(Distributed 09/11/08) Earl Fontenot may have to wait a month before any losses are apparent in his sweet potato crop after Hurricane Gustav. “It’s too early to tell if we’re going to have some loss,” he said. “But it’s not looking good. They are under stressful conditions now.”

(Distributed 09/19/08) LSU AgCenter Chancellor Bill Richardson was part of a group of agricultural representatives that met with Louisiana’s Congressional delegation earlier this week to provide an accurate picture of the severe damage caused to Louisiana agriculture as a result of hurricanes Gustav and Ike.

(Distributed 09/18/08) Residents of Cameron and Calcasieu parishes are still coping with the ordeal of putting their lives back together after Hurricane Ike. People began trickling back to their homes in Cameron and Grand Chenier to see if anything remains to be cleaned up, although they are not being allowed to stay. Cattle owners were struggling to deal with herds still in the marsh.

(Distributed 09/19/08) Hurricane Gustav dumped 18 inches of rain on Ken Thornhill’s sweet potato fields in Franklin Parish. Hurricane Ike didn’t hit his fields as hard, but sweet potato growers across the state are reeling from the two storms. “It’s really a sad period of time for Louisiana’s sweet potato industry,” Thornhill said.

(Distributed 09/11/08) For the first time in the history of the LSU AgCenter, a powerful storm did not completely shut down communications in the hardest-hit areas.

(Distributed 09/17/08) The deadline has been extended to Sept. 30 for farmers who need waivers from the Farm Service Agency (FSA) to qualify for federal disaster insurance to help cover their losses from hurricanes Gustav and Ike. “The deadline had been Sept. 16, but because some of the FSA offices were without power because of the hurricanes, the deadline was extended a couple of weeks,” said Dr. Kurt Guidry, LSU AgCenter agricultural economist.

(Distributed 09/16/08) Coastal residents assessing their damage from Hurricane Ike compared this storm with the Hurricane Rita in 2005. In Vermilion Parish, residents said the water rose much slower and was not as high. That wasn’t the case in Cameron Parish, where LSU AgCenter county agent Gary Wicke said the surge even reached the Lake Charles airport.

(Distributed 09/16/08) Classes on how to do business online will be offered in four locations across the state, beginning in Oak Grove on Sept. 23. The two-day classes are offered jointly by the LSU AgCenter, the Southern University Agricultural Center and the Louisiana Economic Development Department (LED).

(Distributed 09/15/08) If you don’t include mulches in your gardening efforts, you really should give them a try. You will be amazed by how much they spare you from weeding and how nice they can make your yard and garden look.

(Distributed 09/15/08) Dr. Ron Levy has been named the state soybean specialist for the LSU AgCenter effective Sept. 15 according to Dr. Paul Coreil, LSU AgCenter vice chancellor for extension.

(Distributed 09/12/08) LSU AgCenter economists estimate Louisiana’s agricultural damage from Hurricane Gustav will total hundreds of millions of dollars while stressing the economic losses stretch well beyond the losses to farmers and associated businesses.

(Distributed 09/11/08) Red Cross officials were so impressed by the inaugural operation of the Louisiana Emergency Shelter near Alexandria during Hurricane Gustav they have invited the manager to address chapter and city officials in New York City later this year.

(Distributed 09/10/08) Louisiana’s farmers are facing lost income from reduced yields and product quality in the neighborhood of $370 to $450 million as a result of the effects of Hurricane Gustav, according to economists with the LSU AgCenter.

(Distributed 09/10/08) One sure vestige of a hurricane or bad blow is a large, dead area of the lawn. It usually is located near curbside where yard debris is piled up for many days.

(Distributed 09/10/08) Rains from Hurricane Gustav significantly affected a diversity of crops in Northeast Louisiana – particularly with parts of Tensas and Franklin parishes getting 19 inches of rain.

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

(Distributed 09/09/08) WHITEVILLE – Farmer Jeffrey Sylvester gazed over a field that looked more suited for water-skiing than growing rice. “There’s a rice crop under that water,” he said. “That’s all standing rice.”

(Distributed 09/08/08) Children's reactions to disaster depend on their age and maturity. Their responses also are affected by how close they are to the event, their level of exposure to it through TV and how they see their parents react.

(Distributed 09/08/08) Those who survive hurricanes and other natural disasters are at risk for behavioral and emotional readjustment problems. Most child and adult survivors experience one or more normal stress reactions for several days after a natural disaster.

(Distributed 09/08/08) After a crisis like Hurricane Gustav, your life may never be the same. Many of us survived this natural disaster, but much of what we care about may be lost, according to LSU AgCenter family life professor Dr. Diane D. Sasser.

(Distributed 09/08/08) Louisiana’s commercial ornamental horticulture industry received significant but not major damage from the effects of Hurricane Gustav, according to experts at the LSU AgCenter.

(Distributed 09/07/08) You probably can’t avoid the stress coming in the wake of Hurricane Gustav, but you can manage it, says LSU AgCenter family and consumer sciences specialist Becky White.

(Distributed 09/07/08) When disasters happen, dedicated volunteers and professionals swing into action to help those affected by the tragedy. But these helpers also have needs, says LSU AgCenter family and consumer sciences specialist Becky White.

(Distributed 09/07/08) A child may continue to be fearful following a hurricane because of the uncertainty of the future. “A child can mix up real fear and make-believe fear. This is OK, and a parent or other care-giver can help in many ways,” says LSU AgCenter family and consumer sciences specialist Becky White.

(Distributed 09/05/08) Rain resulting from Hurricane Gustav across the crawfish-producing parishes of Louisiana may cause problems for crawfish producers, according to LSU AgCenter aquaculture specialists Greg Lutz and Mark Shirley.

(Distributed 09/05/08) Louisiana agricultural producers who suffered crop damage from Hurricane Gustav need crop insurance or non-insured crop disaster assistance coverage to be eligible to participate in federal disaster assistance programs, according to LSU AgCenter agricultural economist Kurt Guidry.

(Distributed 08/27/08) The LSU AgCenter has a wealth of information on preparing for hurricanes and other storms as well as what to do in the aftermath of a storm.

(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 09/05/08) Rice is among the many Louisiana agricultural commodities hurt by Hurricane Gustav, although the majority of the crop had been harvested in the southwest Louisiana rice belt before the storm came through.

(Distributed 08/29/08) Sustainability and “green” are commonly used words in mainstream media. We think of gardening and yard care as green activities, but many of our practices are not green at all, such as overusing pesticides and fertilizers.

(Distributed 08/29/08) With Gustav bearing down on the Louisiana coast, homes that have been stripped for repair since hurricanes Katrina and Rita – and those that are now elevated on columns – may be subject to high winds for the first time.

(Distributed 08/29/08) Homeowners face many issues after a hurricane. If the home has escaped major structural damage, one of the first problems encountered may be the loss of electrical power.

(Distributed 08/29/08) Adults are urged to assemble a “grab-and-go” box of important papers in case of a hurricane evacuation. How about making a “to-go kit” for your child? Assembling a few treasured items can help your child in times of disaster, according to LSU AgCenter family development professor Dr. Rebecca White.

(For Release On Or After 09/26/08) Birds can contribute wonderful things to the enjoyment of a landscape, such as movement, color, sounds and even pest control. The presence of birds is almost universally welcome among gardeners. Gardeners can even go so far as to design and plant landscapes that are particularly attractive to birds.

(For Release On Or After 09/19/08) When it comes to home landscaping, many gardeners remain confused about how to create what they want. The important thing to remember is that developing an attractive, properly functioning landscape is best done using a process.

(For Release On Or After 09/12/08) Roadsides and meadows come alive with colors of native wildflowers in September, October and November. Gardeners – who sometimes struggle to create beautiful displays of flowers in their landscapes – often marvel at the way nature seems to achieve such beauty without effort.

(Distributed 08/28/08) If you're planning to tailgate this football season, a strong defense is your best protection against foodborne illness, says LSU AgCenter food safety “coach” Dr. Beth Reames. Microorganisms that cause foodborne illness are all around and, given the right conditions, can grow in foods and make us sick.

(For Release On Or After 09/05/08) September is one of our most active months for tropical storms and hurricanes. Trees are particularly vulnerable to the effects of high winds and sustain various types of damage as a result.

(Distributed 08/27/08) A commonly asked question LSU AgCenter extension agents face every year is, “Why is my neighbor’s yard greener?” The answer can be simple or quite complex, depending on what's wrong. “If there are many issues interacting, sometimes it's just better to kill it all off and start all over,” said Tom Koske, LSU AgCenter turfgrass specialist.

(Distributed 08/27/08) An insecticide will be available soon for homeowners to use to treat their citrus trees for the Asian citrus psyllid, according to Alan Vaughn, LSU AgCenter extension agent in Plaquemines Parish. “We’ve been told a product called Merit 2F will be available in a few weeks. Homeowners should be able to obtain it from their local garden centers.”

(Distributed 08/27/08) ALEXANDRIA – Corn with improved resistance to aflatoxin and soybeans that won’t lose quality from Louisiana’s heavy rains are two of the crop breeding goals of an LSU AgCenter researcher at the Dean Lee Research and Extension Station in Alexandria. And Dr. Steve Moore is making progress on both fronts, which was good news for the 150 farmers and agricultural industry representatives gathered for a field day there on Aug. 21.

(Distributed 08/27/08) If you don't know your cholesterol number, now is a good time to get your blood cholesterol checked and take steps to lower it if it is high, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames. September is National Cholesterol Education Month.

(Distributed 08/26/08) Bobby H. Fletcher Jr. has been named assistant director of the LSU AgCenter’s Extension Service.

(Distributed 08/26/08) 4–H and FFA goat exhibitors from across Louisiana took part in the second 4-H goat educational trip in Louisiana and Mississippi Aug. 3-8.

(Distributed 03/07/08) Intermittent rains didn’t stop commercial tomato growers from viewing outdoor exhibits and touring the greenhouse tomato operation during a tomato field day at the LSU AgCenter’s Red River Research Station in Bossier City on Feb. 29.

(Distributed 08/26/08) Labor Day weekend marks the unofficial end of summer, with outdoor grilling a popular way to celebrate the occasion. Cookouts require extra care to prevent foodborne illness, and LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames offers several extra-care steps.

(Distributed 08/26/08) Note: LSU AgCenter family economist Dr. Jeanette Tucker was among the thousands of victims of a recent massive cyber theft of Louisiana and Mississippi restaurant databases. Here is her story and the actions she took.

(Distributed 08/25/08) The remnants of Tropical Storm Fay have put Louisiana farmers in a wait-and-see mode. They are waiting to get back into their fields to plant and harvest crops while seeing the quality of crops ready for harvest being diminished by the wet weather, say LSU AgCenter experts.

(Distributed 08/25/08) The LSU AgCenter recently announced the appointment of Dr. John Russin as associate vice chancellor.

(Distributed 05/28/08) You can find interesting stories almost anywhere you look, but Louisiana 4-H has produced some gems since its inception in 1908.

(Distributed 07/16/08) ST. GABRIEL – Sugarcane growers can reduce the cost of producing their crops by following new fertilizer recommendations, researchers said today (July 16) at a sugarcane field day at the LSU AgCenter’s Sugar Research Station here.

(Distributed 05/20/08) People who want to learn to make their own biodiesel are invited to a workshop on June 3, 4 or 5 hosted by the LSU AgCenter at the W.A. Callegari Environmental Center in Baton Rouge. The workshop starts at 9:30 a.m. each day and will be followed at 11 a.m. by a 60-minute demonstration on how to make biodiesel from used vegetable oil.

(Distributed 08/21/08) The Louisiana timber industry could get a financial boost from the results of research to create new value-added products from small-diameter trees.

(Distributed 08/20/08) Students attending the camp at the LSU AgCenter’s Grant Walker 4-H Educational Center had the chance to take classes in science – learning about rockets, robots and other high-tech subjects.

(Distributed 08/19/08) Businesses and local governments have an opportunity to join together to market their rural communities as a destination for regional tourism, experts told those attending a tourism conference Aug. 12-14.

(Distributed 02/29/08) As competition between food and bioenergy drives up prices of corn, soybeans and other farm commodities, Louisiana has untapped land that could be put into production for alternative crops, according to agricultural industry observers.

(Distributed 02/29/08) HAMBURG – Most crawfish producers don’t check oxygen levels of their water, but that step can help improve production, according to Dr. Robert Romaire, an LSU AgCenter aquaculture expert. “If you’re in the crawfish business, you really ought to be checking it on a regular basis,” he told producers at a meeting here on Feb. 29.

(Distributed 02/29/08) The LSU AgCenter invites you to stroll through the azaleas at Windrush Gardens in its Burden Center in Baton Rouge March 9.

(Distributed 02/29/08) Mayhaw growers can learn the latest research about producing their crops during the 12th annual mayhaw conference and field day slated for March 7 at the Wesley Center in Woodworth.

(Distributed 02/13/08) A series of crawfish production meetings sponsored by the LSU AgCenter will provide information to help farmers. Topics will include economical and efficient pumping, production economics and pond management. There will be an update on the white spot syndrome virus found in some ponds during 2007.

(Distributed 02/12/2008) The Northshore Spring Garden Show will be held March 15-16, 2008 in the Bobby Fletcher Agriculture Center at the St. Tammany Parish Fairgrounds in Covington.

(Distributed 02/12/2008) The 2008 Hammond Spring Garden Day will be held on Saturday, March 8, at the LSU AgCenter’s Hammond Research Station at 21549 Old Covington Hwy. (Hwy. 1067 just off Hwy. 190) from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.

(Distributed 08/18/08) A new horticulture lecture series titled Reflections in the Garden will be presented at the LSU AgCenter’s Burden Center the first Monday of each month starting in September.

(Distributed 08/18/08) Louisiana’s oldest living 4-H’er, Elaine Marchand Edmonston, and the Louisiana 4-H organization have some notable things in common.

(Distributed 08/15/08) Trends in the sweet potato industry are showing a shift toward more processed products, LSU AgCenter experts said at a field day at the AgCenter’s Sweet Potato Research Station Aug. 14.

(Distributed 06/19/08) The Louisiana 4-H Museum is seeking items for its collection to show the history of 4-H – the state’s largest and long-running youth development program. The museum is calling for photos, ribbons, certificates, trophies, documents, handcrafted projects, demonstration materials, record books and more to be used in exhibits, traveling displays, presentations and archives.

(Distributed 08/14/08) Participating in Marsh Maneuvers was like “boot camp” for 16-year-old Austin Mouton, a 4-H student from Erath High School, who said the activities meshed with his career plans in wildlife management.

(Distributed 02/14/08) A half-hour TV documentary, “Louisiana’s Lucky Clover: A Century of 4-H” will be broadcast for the first time on Louisiana Public Broadcasting (LPB) and its affiliate stations on March 12 at 7:40 p.m. Produced by the LSU AgCenter, the documentary tracks the history of 4-H from the first “corn club” in Avoyelles Parish in 1908 to today’s vast network of clubs and projects across that state that involved about 225,000 young people in 2007.

(For Release On Or After 02/29/08) Mention blooming wildflowers and most people think of country meadows and drives along rural roads. Wildflowers, however, can be found everywhere – even along the Interstates and in major metropolitan areas.

(Distributed 08/12/08) A fire ant treatment being touted on radio and on the Internet is a sham, LSU AgCenter experts say. The treatment – pouring two cups of club soda directly in the center of a fire ant mound – won’t control the insects.

(Distributed 08/12/08) A U.S. Department of Agriculture-sponsored youth literacy program is being presented in three Louisiana parishes by the LSU AgCenter and the Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center.

(Distributed 3/24/08) – A Southwest Louisiana farmer has found his niche by growing aromatic rice, and he’s eager for the release of a new LSU AgCenter variety to compete with rice imported from Thailand.

(Distributed 03/03/08) DERIDDER – Fifty forest landowners and industry leaders learned about the potential of using low-grade wood products to produce biofuels during the Beauregard Forestry Association annual meeting Feb. 23.

(Distributed 03/05/08) The Louisiana Association of Extension 4-H Agents touted accomplishments and expressed appreciation to those in attendance at the annual Louisiana School Boards Association Board of Directors and Superintendents’ Breakfast during LSBA’s 71st convention Feb. 29.

(Distributed 03/05/08) It is the beginning of another pecan season, and faculty at the LSU AgCenter Pecan Station in Shreveport greeted it Feb. 28 with a spring seminar attended by 35 growers.

(Distributed 3/25/08) Louisiana companies that produce and market wood products now have an accredited testing facility available to them in the state.

(Distributed 04/09/08) Members of the 2008 USA Rice Leadership Development class toured the LSU AgCenter Rice Research Station April 3.

(Distributed 05/09/08) When asked “How does your garden grow?” students at a Baton Rouge elementary school have a plethora of plants to list. LSU AgCenter Master Gardeners and Kids Hope volunteers have helped transform a once dull courtyard at University Terrace Elementary school into a flowering oasis.

(Distributed 05/01/08) While producers have thought of ill-tempered or difficult-to-handle cattle as an inconvenience or potential health hazard, LSU AgCenter research has shown that cattle with excitable temperament tend to have negative effects on carcass quality.

(Distributed 05/16/08) Louisiana sugarcane farmers will have a new sugarcane variety this fall with the release of L 01-283 from the LSU AgCenter and others.

(For Release On Or After 04/04/08) It’s amazing how many times I’ve gotten questions about growing grass in shady areas. This is a common issue because shade trees in a landscape grow larger over time.

(For Release On Or After 04/11/08) Interest in growing herbs has been rising over the years as Louisiana gardeners increasingly have planted herbs in herb gardens or containers or in beds among existing plants.

(For Release On Or After 04/18/08) When you think about adding color to your landscape, flowering bedding plants are usually the first thing that comes to mind. Many plants with colorful foliage, however, can serve the same purpose.

(For Release On Or After 04/25/08) Nature never created a houseplant. The plants we call houseplants are native to various, generally tropical, areas of the world, and in all cases their natural habitat is outdoors.

(Distributed 04/14/08) Choose Louisiana strawberries for a nutritious and delicious treat. Besides being naturally sweet and tasty, these locally grown berries require less shipping time than those grown out-of-state. This helps insure a fresher, higher quality product, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

(Distributed 04/03/08) MANSFIELD – Nutrition educators and area residents learned they are never too old to improve bone health at Hats Off to Nutrition, a presentation by LSU AgCenter faculty March 27.

(Distributed 08/08/08) If your child slips into the blahs, take him or her to an online activity called VERB, recommends an LSU AgCenter nutritionist. The site contains fun games and interesting facts that help kids become active.

(Distributed 04/02/08) Consumers may learn how to avoid scams, fraud and identity theft through a program offered across the state by the LSU AgCenter and other organizations.

(Distributed 04/14/08) The 2008 All-American Daylily winner is Sweet Summer Valentine, chosen by the All-American Daylily Selection Council. The plant has light, buff-pink flowers with a vivid burgundy maroon eyezone and a matching edge.

(Distributed 04/14/08) April 27–May 3 is Louisiana Volunteers for Family and Community week, as proclaimed by Gov. Bobby Jindal. The volunteer program, whose members used to be called extension homemakers, is a project of the LSU AgCenter.

(Distributed 04/14/08) Even if you are not otherwise required to file a tax return, you may still be eligible for an economic stimulus payment from the federal government, according to LSU AgCenter family economist Dr. Gloria Nye. Filing a return, however, is required to receive the money.

(Distributed 04/02/08) Enjoy a guilt-free celebration in April by observing national pecan month with one of Louisiana’s locally grown commodities. You’ll be helping the state’s economy and treating yourself to a nutrient-rich food.

(Distributed 04/22/08) The LSU AgCenter will conduct a Pond Management Workshop on Tuesday, May 6, from 9 a.m. until noon at the Folsom First Baptist Church Living Center in Folsom.

(Distributed 04/23/08) Fifteen individuals from Central Louisiana were honored April 17 as inductees to the Louisiana 4-H Hall of Fame. “Here are the heroes we should be emulating,” said Dr. Paul Coreil, LSU AgCenter vice chancellor for extension, about the honorees, who join 85 others as the first members of the Hall of Fame during 2008 – the centennial year for the 4-H organization in Louisiana.

(Distributed 04/30/08) BOSSIER CITY – Bees are the angels of agriculture, said honey producer Bill Walker at the LSU AgCenter Lunch and Ag Discovery held April 22 at the Red River Research Station.

(Distributed 04/30/08) The LSU AgCenter’s Hammond Research Station will hold its second annual Landscape Horticulture Field Day for green industry professionals on May 15.

(Distributed 04/28/08) The LSU AgCenter’s Southeast Research Station and the Louisiana Forage and Grassland Council will sponsor a forage field day May 8.

(Distributed 04/25/08) More than 180 students had an opportunity to see what it’s like to be an adult at the “Welcome to The Real World” event at Lutcher High School on April 18.

(Distributed 04/25/08) Despite predictions by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, LSU AgCenter experts say 2008 rice acreage likely will be up in Louisiana.

(Distributed 04/25/08) HAMMOND – Seventeen lifelong 4-H supporters from southeastern Louisiana were inducted into the Louisiana state 4-H Hall of Fame April 20. They are among the first 100 chosen statewide for the honor during the 100th anniversary of 4-H in Louisiana this year.

(Distributed 04/23/08) MONROE – The Louisiana Volunteers for Family and Community heard about life lessons to be learned from family activities, gardening and finding happiness at the group’s statewide meeting April 16.

(Distributed 04/23/08) Using Louisiana sugar mills to produce biofuels and value-added chemicals in addition to sugar can help the state’s sugar industry become a driving force for economic growth in Louisiana and produce alternative fuels to satisfy the state’s demand, LSU AgCenter researchers told the U.S. secretary of energy April 21.

(Distributed 04/22/08) SHREVEPORT – The Louisiana Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences presented awards and installed officers at their recent annual conference. The LSU AgCenter organization chose for its theme this year, Lights, Camera, Action! Focus on Louisiana Families.

(Distributed 04/21/08) Dr. Daniel Stephenson has been hired as the new weed scientist for row crop agriculture at the LSU AgCenter’s Dean Lee Research and Extension Center in Alexandria. He begins work May 1. He will replace Roy Vidrine, who has retired after 36 years of service.

(Distributed 04/18/08) Typically grown in southeastern Louisiana, strawberries are flourishing in Madison Parish at Grady’s Garden, said R.L. Frazier, LSU AgCenter county agent, who is helping Lynne Grady with her crop on her farm 12 miles south of Tallulah on Highway 65.

(Distributed 04/16/08) LSU AgCenter rice research scientists conduct many projects at locations other than the Rice Research Station near Crowley. These off-station sites, typically between 2 and 6 acres, are in the state’s two rice-growing areas. This year four sites have been selected in southwestern Louisiana and two in northeastern Louisiana.

(Distributed 04/17/08) The LSU AgCenter has scheduled a variety of model farm field tours this spring and summer for producers who need to complete the second phase of the Louisiana Master Farmer Program and learn about specific conservation practices.

(Distributed 04/17/08) Some gardeners shop for plants to fill voids in their gardens. Other gardeners buy plants they “just must have” and then search for spots to put them. Whichever group you fit into, East Baton Rouge Master Gardeners have the plants for you at their annual sale May 10.

(Distributed 04/18/08) Twenty-two individuals from 11 parishes in southwestern Louisiana were inducted into the Louisiana 4-H Hall of Fame at a ceremony held here April 15. The ceremony was one of several across the state to recognize 100 former members, volunteers and retired LSU AgCenter employees for their outstanding service to the LSU AgCenter’s 4-H program during its centennial celebration.

(Distributed 04/18/08) The LSU AgCenter’s Bob R. Jones-Idlewild Research Station near Clinton will hold a white-tailed deer field day on Saturday, April 26.

(Distributed 04/21/08) Louisiana landowners will have the opportunity to learn about carbon credits and how they may benefit at a conference on May 14 at Alexandria.

(Distributed 04/16/08) The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service has awarded the LSU AgCenter a grant to become the country’s 11th Center for Wood Utilization Research.

(Distributed 04/08/08) Food safety and food security took center stage as more than 100 industry representatives met for the fourth annual Louisiana Food Processors Conference April 2-3.

(Distributed 04/04/08) To help small municipalities and parishes comply with Phase II Urban Stormwater Permit renewal, LSU AgCenter in conjunction with the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality is conducting one-day workshops at three locations in Louisiana.

(Distributed 04/02/08) POLLOCK – Hundreds of permanent, long-time residents of the LSU AgCenter’s Grant Walker 4 H Educational Center are being treated to brand new housing, thanks to the efforts of 4 H’ers.

(Distributed 04/01/08)Six people from North Central Louisiana were inducted into the LSU AgCenter's 4-H Hall of Fame on March 27. They will join 94 others across the state who will be the first 100 honored as part of the state’s 4-H centennial celebration.

(Distributed 04/01/08) The LSU AgCenter’s Rosepine Research Station will host its annual cattle and forage field day May 1.

(Distributed 05/22/08) Now that food costs more and fuel prices are higher than ever, cost-cutting strategies are important to households across most income levels. LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Heli Roy offers ways to save money when heading to the grocery store.

(Distributed 08/04/08) The 4-H team representing Louisiana at the national Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Program walked away from the event with two pieces of good news – they placed second out of 18 state teams, and their state will host the event in 2009.

(Distributed 08/01/08) The LSU AgCenter will hold a field day Aug. 14 at its Sweet Potato Research Station in Chase.

(Distributed 08/01/08) Fourteen Bienville Parish 4-H’ers learned about the world of work in professional jobs this summer in a new program that’s a joint venture between the LSU AgCenter and the Bienville Parish Police Jury. Called Jurors Empowering Teens, or JET, the six-week program was an experiment to see if investing in young people would pay off.

(Distributed 08/01/08) Squire Creek Country Club, a private course nestled in the rolling Louisiana hills near Ruston, will be the site of a 4-H benefit golf tournament Sept. 29.

(Distributed 07/30/08) The sixth annual LSU AgCenter Dean Lee Research Station field day has been scheduled for Aug. 21 at the AgCenter’s C. DeWitt Livestock Facility.

(Distributed 05/22/08) What do rising food and fuel costs and volunteerism have in common? “Maybe more than you think,” says LSU AgCenter volunteer expert Dr. Karen Overstreet.

(Distributed 05/20/08) To make each food dollar go farther, remember that healthy foods give you more value for the buck. Thrifty shopping, however, requires planning before and during trips to the store, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

(Distributed 05/20/08) If you're one of the many people who is buying and freezing foods in quantity to help combat rising food costs, don't let freezer burn defeat your efforts, advises LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

(Distributed 05/20/08) Finding ways to save on groceries is always a good idea, but especially now when simply driving to the store costs more. You can stretch your food dollars in many ways, according to LSU AgCenter family economist Dr. Gloria Nye.

(Distributed 05/22/08) Whether you’re a senior taking care of yourself or caring for another, every senior can save money when buying food, an LSU AgCenter nutritionist says.

(Distributed 05/22/08) The weak economy and food inflation have hit struggling households hard. The U. S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Stamp program is designed to help such households, but, nationally, the program misses one in three eligible people, according LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Annrose Guarino.

(Distributed 05/20/08) Increases in fuel and transportation prices continue to hit consumers hard at both the gas pump and at the grocery store. Over the last 12 months, the food and beverages index advanced 5.2 percent led by a 6.3 percent rise in prices for food at home, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Price Index.

(Distributed 05/05/08) May is high blood pressure awareness month, and LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames says since nearly one in three American adults has high blood pressure, it's important to learn more about preventing and treating this disease.

(Distributed 05/07/08) The 9th annual National Women's Health Week will kick off on Mother's Day and be celebrated throughout the following week. The theme for the May 11-17 events is “It’s Your Time: Get Inspired. Get Healthy.” LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames says the theme is a good reminder to make better health one of your top priorities.

(Distributed 05/16/08) May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, and LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames encourages people to celebrate the month and all year long by participating in their favorite physical activities or trying new ones.

(Distributed 05/23/08) More than 1,500 young people from across the state will gather on the LSU campus June 17-20 for the 94th annual 4-H University. There will be an array of educational activities including competition for scholarships, educational trips, saving bonds and other prizes.

(Distributed 05/26/08) BIENVILLE – Tevin Champion, a sophomore at Bienville High School, is the winner in the ninth through 12th grades division of a statewide poster contest on financial responsibility.

(Distributed 07/31/08) As rebuilding efforts continue to ramp up in the hurricane-affected areas of Louisiana, the LSU AgCenter has joined with other agencies to help make the job a little easier.

(Distributed 07/25/08) Hot summer weather signals the importance of getting enough fluids to stay hydrated and prevent heat-related illnesses – especially for senior citizens. Older people are at high risk for developing heat-related illness at this time, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.