(Radio News 04/30/07) The LSU AgCenter’s Agricultural Leadership Development program is helping individuals in all aspects of agriculture become effective advocates for the industry. Applications for the next class are being accepted. Participants in the program will take part in 10 seminars that deal with different themes such as environmental and economic issues. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/30/07) Several plant feeder insects are making their spring appearances. LSU AgCenter entomologist Dr. Dale Pollet says to watch for lace bugs on azaleas with the onset of warmer weather. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(TV News 04/23/07) Mosquitoes are more than a nuisance. They also are a health threat, because mosquitoes can transmit diseases such as West Nile virus. By studying the bird population in different habitats, LSU AgCenter researchers are learning more about mosquito-borne diseases. (Runtime: 1 minute, 43 seconds)

(Radio News 04/23/07) Even though West Nile virus peaks during the summer it is active throughout the year. The virus shows up in mosquitoes in the spring, and LSU AgCenter entomologist Dr. Wayne Kramer is trying to understand how the virus amplifies into the summer.

(Radio News 04/23/07) Rising production costs can cut into farmers’ profits. Like many farmers, cattle producers are facing several issues this year that will make raising cattle a little more difficult. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/23/07) Hurricanes Katrina and Rita hurt the Louisiana cattle industry. Many cattle were lost in southern Louisiana, and the storms damaged fences that contained cattle and forage that fed them. But LSU AgCenter beef cattle specialist Dr. Jason Rowntree says cattle herds in the state have rebounded to about 500,000 head.

(Radio 04/23/07) Jessica Brauch’s Friday mornings often are spent capturing birds. The LSU entomology graduate student is studying mosquito-borne viruses in the bird population. After she captures them using mist nets, she collects blood samples. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio 04/16/07) There is no way to predict what the mosquito population will be like this year, so LSU AgCenter entomologist Dr. Wayne Kramer won’t even try. But the fact that mosquitoes will be present is a given. Eliminating standing water, however, is one way to cut down on mosquito breeding. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/16/07) Around 60 percent of American workers are suffering from financial distress. The LSU AgCenter and partners in the Louisiana Jumpstart Coalition are offering employers an opportunity to help their employees become more financially savvy. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 04/16/07) Youngsters can get a hands-on lesson about where their food and clothing originates at this year’s AgMagic. Exhibits include a butterfly garden, a bug display and a simulated forest. (Runtime: 60 seconds)