(2/26/2020) St. Joseph, La. – Hands-on demonstrations and unique learning opportunities set the stage for a successful Soil Health and Cover Crop Field Day that was held at the LSU AgCenter Northeast Research Station in Tensas Parish on February 26. The event was livestreamed by the Louisiana Delta Crop Report and viewed by many who could not attend.

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Dr. James Caillier, executive director of the Taylor Foundation, addressed attendees and explained the importance of this project. Photo by Rexanna Powers/LSU AgCenter

The focus of this event was directed to one of the two model farms that are part of a $1.4 million grant to the LSU AgCenter from the Patrick F. Taylor Foundation. Located 9 miles north of Newellton, the 100-acre grain and cotton model farm is owned and operated by Jay Hardwick and his family. The Hardwicks grow a variety of other crops including corn, soybeans, and wheat. This project seeks to reduce losses and the amount of chemicals that are used in and lost from current agricultural practices by developing a portfolio of practices that improve environmental sustainability.

Pictured from left to right: Dr. James Caillier, State Representative Travis Johnson, and Marshall Hardwick. Photo by Rexanna Powers/LSU AgCenter

Among several presentations and guest speakers, field tours were given of the practices that are currently being tested on small plots. A portfolio of 8 best management practices were highlighted during field day: cover crops, crop rotation, residue management, reduced tillage, fertility management, crop selection, water management, and integrated pest management.

Dr. Lisa Fultz presents a demonstration of the benefits of utilizing cover crops. Photo by Rexanna Powers/LSU AgCenter

The State of Louisiana is a great contributor the overall success of the agriculture industry in the United States. In fact, of the 7 million acres that constitute the state, 4 million are harvested crop land. Dr. Lisa Fultz and Dr. Brenda Tubaña are the lead soil scientists and researchers on this project and are working closely with farmers to implement the practices on their own farms.

Dr. Branda Tubaña speaks with students about the importance of best management practices. Photo by Rexanna Powers/LSU AgCenter

Fultz said many factors contribute to the sustainability of an industry but we are responsible for our input to make a positive change.

“Poor agricultural management systems and improper land use in the last 70 years has contributed to widespread algal blooms in the Gulf,” she said. “It is our goal to reduce the negative impacts that traditional practices have by developing and implementing a refined set of best management practices while also preserving the farmers’ bottom line.”

A large group of local producers attended the event to learn about the best management practices that will improve ecosystem services and reduce chemical fertilizer losses. These practices are ultimately environmentally and financially sustainable. Local support for this project was recognized by the attendance of Representative Travis Johnson.

Dr. Lisa Fultz gives opening remarks to the group of students, local producers, researchers, agents and supporters. Photo by Rexanna Powers/LSU AgCenter