(Distributed 01/11/05) Rice farmers across South Louisiana recently returned to school for lessons in the latest techniques of planting, pest control, fertilizer applications and fighting diseases.

(Distributed 01/25/05) The LSU AgCenter will host the Louisiana Natural Resources Symposium July 19-20 at the Lod Cook Conference Center and Hotel on the LSU campus in Baton Rouge.

Photos from "Ag Alley" in Monroe. See related story titled "Youth, Adults Learn About La. Agriculture In 'Ag Alley.'"

(Distributed 01/05/05) It may be only the beginning of January, but the crawfish season already is off to a good start, according to LSU AgCenter aquaculture specialist Dr. Greg Lutz, who predicts an abundant crop this year.

(Distributed 01/28/05) The third annual Louisiana Food Processors Conference and exposition has been set for Feb. 16-17 at the C.B. Pennington Jr. Conference Center in Baton Rouge.

(Distributed 01/14/05) "I’m here to try to get an overview of what is coming in the way of markets, how the U.S. market is perceived around the world," said Tommy Ellett of Angelina Plantation in Monterey, La.

(Distributed 01/04/05) Experts will share information on Asian soybean rust with farmers and agribusiness leaders during the annual meeting of the Louisiana Soybean Association Jan. 18 at Alexandria.

(Distributed 01/25/05) Thousands of youth and adults learned about Louisiana agriculture after they traveled down the LSU AgCenter’s Ag Alley this past weekend (Jan. 21-22).

(Distributed 01/20/05) More than 50 graduates of the Master Cattle Producer program received diplomas at a ceremony held Saturday (Jan. 15) during the Louisiana Cattlemen’s Association convention here.

(Distributed 01/13/05) An LSU AgCenter volunteer has received national recognition for her work in the Louisiana 4-H youth development program.

(Distributed 01/26/05) Leaders of the rice industry this week urged Louisiana producers to persevere but brace themselves for possible price support cuts.

(Distributed 01/06/05) Youth and adults will have a new path of learning to travel when they visit Ag Alley at Northeast Louisiana Ag Expo 2005 Jan. 21-22 at the Monroe Civic Center.

(Distributed 01/14/05) Americans are opening their hearts and wallets, generously giving millions of dollars to relief effort in the countries pummeled by the recent tsunami in southern Asia.

(Distributed 01/24/05) Extracting vitamin E from rice bran may become more cost effective and provide an expanded market for the rice byproduct if research in the LSU AgCenter’s Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering proves out.

(Distributed 01/27/05) This year’s Louisiana strawberry crop started coming in a little earlier than usual, and officials say the state’s farmers are hoping for a good crop.

(Distributed 01/27/05) What critter has no name, eats rice plants and has the potential to make farmers see red?

(Distributed 01/25/05) Thousands of youngsters from across the state are working toward competing in the LSU AgCenter’s 70th annual Livestock Show Feb. 5-12.

(Distributed 01/11/05) Corn, rice and soybean producers will get the latest information needed to grow productive crops at two forums hosted by the LSU AgCenter in February.

(Distributed 01/21/05) The LSU AgCenter will have a $1 million endowed position in cotton production as the result of industry donations honoring a man who was one of the driving forces in Louisiana cotton production.

(Distributed 01/06/05) Canadian officials recently confirmed a case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as "mad cow disease," in an Alberta dairy cow little more than a year after a cow in the state of Washington was diagnosed with the disease – the only U.S. case so far.

(Distributed 01/20/05) Interest is keen in new rice varieties being released for seed production this year by the LSU AgCenter’s Rice Research Station.

(Distributed 01/20/05) The LSU AgCenter gained additional support for its Louisiana House educational project Thursday (Jan. 20) – as construction on the facility progresses and its opening to the public is anticipated later this year.

(Distributed 01/28/05) Young people from across Louisiana gathered for a fun-filled weekend to learn sewing skills, develop creative talents and practice leadership skills during fashion camp at the Grant Walker 4-H Education Center Jan. 21-23.

(Distributed February 2005) February and March signal the beginning of spring in many parts of Louisiana – at least when it pertains to getting things done in the home landscape, according to LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. Allen Owings.

(Distributed February 2005) Nutrition and physical activity are key components of good health, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames. During March, National Nutrition Month, Reames urges everyone to "Get a Taste for Nutrition," this year’s theme by the American Dietetic Association.

(Distributed February 2005) Although some early childhood educators still have doubts about the importance of computer use by preschool-age children, the argument really is a moot point, according to LSU AgCenter child-care associate Cheri Gioe, who says the reality is that children are steadily gaining access to computers in homes, child-care centers and schools.

(Distributed February 2005) Centipedegrass (Eremochloa ophiuroides) has become the most popular grass type in Louisiana. It is the major grass produced on Louisiana sod farms, according to LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. Tom Koske.

(Distributed 02/12/05) The LSU AgCenter recognized outstanding volunteer leaders and 4-H and FFA members Saturday (Feb. 12) for their involvement in and contributions to youth livestock programs.

(Distributed 02/01/05) Fruit and vegetable growers will learn how to market their crops during the 20th Annual Fruit and Vegetable Growers Conference scheduled for Feb. 22 at the LSU AgCenter’s Calhoun Research Station.

(Distributed 02/12/05) A variety of photos are available from the LSU AgCenter's 2005 Livestock Show. This is one of two galleries posted to our News Web site.

(Distributed 02/12/05) Six exceptional Louisiana young people were recognized Saturday (Feb. 12) for their knowledge, skills and communication abilities as they were named winners of Gerry Lane Premier Exhibitor Awards at the 70th annual LSU AgCenter Livestock Show held at the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales.

(Distributed 02/17/05) "The people are here, the businesses are here, the opportunity is here," Sam Scelfo said of Louisiana’s opportunity to create new jobs through the food-processing industry.

(Distributed 02/17/05) Low rice prices and looming federal budget cuts could be offset by a possible increase of U.S. rice sales, according to some experts in the industry.

(Distributed 02/21/05) Selling food products identified with Louisiana can help build markets – both within the state and elsewhere – a food industry consultant told the Louisiana Food Processors Conference last week.

(Distributed 02/12/05) Hundreds of youth from across Louisiana were named state champions during a week of competition at the 70th Annual LSU AgCenter Livestock Show.

(Distributed 02/12/05) Scholastic awards totaling more than $44,000 were presented Saturday (Feb. 12) to the top exhibitors of market animals at the 70th Annual LSU AgCenter Livestock Show.

(Distributed 02/17/05) Two workshops for citrus growers will be conducted in March by the LSU AgCenter. The clinics, which will provide opportunities for home and commercial citrus growers, are free, and literature will be available at no charge.

(Distributed 02/04/05) LSU AgCenter scientists are launching a series of research projects in 2005 to learn what they can about Asian soybean rust and how this potentially devastating disease will develop in Louisiana. Meanwhile, they are telling farmers to go about their soybean planting as they have in the past, despite this looming threat.

(Distributed 02/01/05) The LSU AgCenter’s Louisiana Forest Products Development Center will host a comprehensive three-day lumber drying workshop Aug. 17-19.

(Distributed 02/11/05) The LSU AgCenter presented four major awards Friday (Feb. 11) recognizing faculty members for their contributions to its diversity initiatives.

(Distributed 02/11/05) The Louisiana House Commerce Committee has scheduled a field hearing for 10 a.m. Feb. 16 at the C.B. Pennington Jr. Conference Center in Baton Rouge.

(Distributed 02/21/05) Participants in the LSU AgCenter’s Diversity Conference earlier this month got a healthy dose of advice that respecting, understanding and honoring diversity is the right thing to do.

(Distributed 02/01/05) State Rep. Francis Thompson is a strong supporter in the LSU AgCenter’s 4-H program. He’s also one of the Louisiana youth development program’s widely known former participants. Thompson, D-Delhi, was honored Saturday night (Jan. 29), and members of the LSU AgCenter’s 4-H program in Winn Parish helped serve dinner to some 350 guests as a community service project.

(Distributed 02/12/05) A variety of photos are available from the LSU AgCenter's 2005 Livestock Show. This is one of two galleries posted to our News Web site.

(Distributed March 2005) Fruit thinning is an important step in consistently producing good quality fruit, according to LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. John Pyzner.

(Distributed March 2005) Do you find yourself in a favor frenzy in which your kind gesture turns into a last-minute "emergency"? It may be time for an "extreme"-ly easy makeover, according to LSU AgCenter family resource management professor Dr. Karen Overstreet.

(Distributed March 2005) Louisiana gardeners are getting itchy green thumbs about now, affirms LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. Tom Koske.

(Distributed March 2005) Some of the most stressful times children experience come when they move from one classroom to another, according to LSU AgCenter child-care associate Cheri Gioe.

(Distributed March 2005) Bamboo enjoys either a "love it" or "hate it" attitude among many home gardeners. "We all need to keep in mind that bamboos are probably best suited for gardeners with some experience," says LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. Allen Owings.

(Distributed March 2005) One of the handiest implements you can put on a small tractor is a lift boom for the 3-point hitch, says Dr. Dick Parish, an engineer at the LSU AgCenter’s Hammond Research Station.

(Distributed March 2005) Zoysiagrass can make the most beautiful green to dark-green lawns, but it also can be a big problem. It is considered high maintenance turf, according to LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. Tom Koske.

(Distributed March 2005) There are many ways to contribute to the economic well-being of your family, parish, state and country. Producing fresh, healthy garden produce is just such a way, according to LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. Tom Koske.

(Distributed March 2005) The fourth Tuesday in March is an important occasion for LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames. On that day, March 22, the American Diabetes Association holds its annual "Alert" to locate the millions of Americans with undiagnosed diabetes.

(Distributed March 2005) Most people do not consume adequate amounts of fruits and vegetables. Yet, these foods are important weapons against chronic disease, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Heli Roy.

(Distributed March 2005) The food and physical activity choices you make now affect how you feel today and in the future. That is the message of the newly released Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2005, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

(Distributed March 2005) The 2005 edition of the Guidelines offers a number of updates on familiar dietary subjects. LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Heli Roy examines some critical points.

(Distributed March 2005) Research shows that Americans have consumed more calories over the past 30 years. "This may be one of the major reasons for the increase in overweight and obesity," says LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

(Distributed March 2005) Eating out is a pleasure you can enjoy even if you’re trying to trying to lose weight or prevent weight gain. That’s an assertion by LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

(Distributed March 2005) Behavioral weight control therapies for obesity involve weight loss and weight maintenance, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Heli Roy. The most effective weight loss programs offer a combination of exercise, diet and behavioral modification.

(Distributed March 2005) Many families enjoy dyeing and decorating eggs for Easter. Because eggs are perishable, though, it is necessary to follow food safety precautions, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

(Distributed March 2005) Two varieties top the list for the 2005 All-American Daylily Selections, according to LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. Allen Owings.

(Distributed March 2005) Proper preparation prevents poor performance. Those are the five Ps to remember when sodding a new lawn, according to LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. Tom Koske.

(Distributed March 2005) Spring testing is a fact of life for Louisiana schoolchildren. With impending tests often comes stress experienced both by parents and the test-takers, says LSU AgCenter Family Development professor Dr. Diane Sasser.

(Distributed March 2005) The three most important factors in pest management are identification, pH and timing. These three measures allow for better management at reduced cost and reduced spraying, according to LSU AgCenter entomologist Dr. Dale Pollet.

(Distributed March 2005) Maintaining the edges of beds in the landscape is easier than it used to be, says Dick Parish, an engineer at the LSU AgCenter’s Hammond Research Station.

(Distributed March 2005) Pine straw – dead pine needles – is a valuable resource in the Deep South. It makes excellent landscape mulch and is in high demand, says Dr. Dick Parish, an engineer at the LSU AgCenter’s Hammond Research Station.

(Distributed 03/10/05) LSU AgCenter soybean specialist Dr. David Lanclos and others shared information about the effects of Asian soybean rust on the crop in Brazil during a Farm Bureau Federation meeting held at the Rapides Parish Extension Center last week (March 4).

(Distributed 03/31/05) Forty-eight 4-H Club members and the adults who accompanied them recently spent two days learning new skills and developing a relationship with their horses during the Southwest Louisiana 4-H Horse Camp at the Burton Coliseum Outdoor Arena here.

(Distributed 03/01/05) David Watson manages about 38 cows in the rolling hills of St. Helena Parish.

(Distributed 03/18/05) More than 200 forest landowners and industry representatives attended the Ark-La-Tex Forestry Forum March 10 to learn techniques important in growing trees and maximizing the profit potential from their land.

(Distributed 03/03/05) Researchers at the LSU AgCenter are working with a product that has the potential to provide several significant health benefits and add value to an important Louisiana commodity.

(Distributed 03/10/05) The LSU AgCenter’s Baton Rouge Spring Garden Show will blossom again March 19-20 on the campus in Baton Rouge.

(Distributed 03/01/05) Farmers and industry representatives are learning how the new Roundup Ready Flex cotton can help them control weeds and be competitive in producing a crop.

(Distributed 03/31/05) Functional foods and the role they play in disease risks will be the subject of a public lecture on the LSU campus April 18.

(Distributed 03/01/05) The LSU AgCenter and the Louisiana Mosquito Control Association are sponsoring a workshop for applicators interested in certification as pesticide applicators for mosquito control/public health.

(Distributed 03/04/05) The LSU AgCenter will once again transform its Parker Coliseum in Baton Rouge into a place where people can learn about the wonders and magic of agriculture April 12-21.

(Distributed 03/10/05) The 2005 Southwest Louisiana Garden Festival is set for April 2-3 in the outdoor covered arena at the Burton Coliseum in Lake Charles.

(Distributed 03/04/05) Four listening sessions will be conducted at various locations in the state to give Louisiana citizens a chance to comment on the Environmental Quality Incentives Program.

(Distributed 03/01/05) The LSU AgCenter and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana’s charitable subsidiary have joined forces on an interactive educational program designed to combat childhood obesity.

(Distributed 03/11/05) Louisiana crawfish farmers are producing an abundant crop this year – although an abundant supply generally means more smaller crawfish, according to Dr. Ray McClain, LSU AgCenter aquaculture professor.

(Distributed 03/10/05) The LSU AgCenter will offer a unique wildlife educational program at selected sites across the state beginning in late March.

(Distributed 03/01/05) Representatives of rice farming groups recently returned from Washington, D.C., slightly more optimistic than when they left, but they warn that agriculture faces potentially tough times.

(Distributed 03/18/05) Citrus growers from California and Spain are beating Louisiana satsuma producers with inferior products, according to an LSU AgCenter horticulture professor.

(Distributed 03/10/05) The LSU AgCenter will offer a unique wildlife educational program at selected sites across the state beginning in late March. The program, "Master Wildlifer; Wildlife Conservation on Private Lands," is designed for landowners, land managers and outdoor recreation enthusiasts who are interested in including wildlife considerations in their current land management activities.

(Distributed 03/01/05) The 2005 Spring Garden Show in New Orleans is set for April 2-3 in the Botanical Gardens on Victory Avenue in City Park.

(Distributed 03/09/05) The LSU AgCenter will provide technical assistance training in April for shrimp producers who qualify for cash payments under the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program.

(Distributed 03/10/05) A Texas company may build a $75 million plant in Louisiana to use rice straw to make building material, according to an environmental brokering and marketing firm.

(Distributed 03/03/05) The LSU AgCenter will hold its annual Performance Tested Bull Sale March 19 at the Dean Lee Research Station south of Alexandria.

(Distributed April 2005) In addition to being drier-than-normal for most parishes, the 2004-2005 winter has been relatively mild in terms of seasonal temperatures, according to AgCenter Climatologist Jay Grymes.

(Distributed April 2005) April offers the opportunity for young adults to learn about money management, savings, investing and the use of credit, according to LSU AgCenter family resource management professor Dr. Ann Berry. It is Youth Financial Literacy Month.

(Distributed April 2005) Louisiana gardeners are now getting into their main growing season. Mid-spring is our most productive time, says LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. Tom Koske.

(Distributed April 2005) Choosing the right location for your garden plays an important role in your success, says LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. Tom Koske. Several factors determine the best spot.

(Distributed April 2005)Okra is a favorite vegetable of the South, but even more valuable to Louisiana for its gumbos, says LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. Tom Koske. The mucilage (affectionately called slime) on this nutritious vegetable acts as a thickening agent.

(Distributed April 2005) Obesity is an epidemic in this country. It is a chronic disease that is leading the huge increase in diabetes and other chronic diseases, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Heli Roy.

(Distributed April 2005) As the end of the school year approaches, your teen will be more and more involved in end-of-the-year social events. You will also note that he or she is getting older and seeking more opportunities for independence, says LSU AgCenter Family Development professor Dr. Diane Sasser.

(Distributed April 2005) Lantana is one of our most popular herbaceous perennials for home and commercial landscape. Over the last couple of years, many new varieties with new flower colors and growth habits have become available, according to LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. Allen Owings.

(Distributed April 2005) One group of roses that is not necessarily new, but has been receiving more and more attention over the last few years, is the shrub rose. "This variety has great potential," says LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. Allen Owings.

(Distributed April 2005) Soy foods have become very popular because of their nutritional content and health benefits, according to LSU AgCenter food and nutrition expert Catrinel Stanciu.

(Distributed April 2005) "When it comes to agriculture, home gardening and the local environment in general, spring is probably the most important season of the year from a weather perspective," says LSU AgCenter Climatologist Jay Grymes. "For most years, late winter and spring rainfall establishes the moisture situation for the entire mid-year growing season across the state."

(Distributed April 2005) "Choose Louisiana strawberries for a nutritious and delicious treat," advises LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames. She says strawberries have important nutrients, which may help maintain a healthy heart.

(Distributed April 2005) "Coleus have been all the rage for the past 10 years or so," says LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dr. Allen Owings. Most of the new varieties have been sun loving, but a new shade-loving coleus being studied at the AgCenter looks promising, according to the horticulturist.

(Distributed April 2005) Many researchers believe that the recent increase in obesity is being driven by environmental factors rather than biological ones. The environmental factors of particular concern are sedentary lifestyle and increased energy consumption, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Heli Roy.

(Distributed April 2005) The transition of youth from high school to adulthood should be a time of dreams and expectations, but for many it is one of anxiety and frustration, according to LSU AgCenter 4-H character education expert John Arceneaux.

(Distributed April 2005) Poor diet and physical inactivity are preventable causes of death, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

(Distributed April 2005) Nutrition plays an important role in a child’s physical and mental growth, as well as his or her future health, stresses LSU AgCenter child-care associate Cheri Gioe.

(Distributed April 2005) The Louisiana Department of Social Services offers a variety of programs designed to help children and families – particularly in the area of ensuring quality child care is available.