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Jimmy D. Mccann, Mcguire, Pamela K., Bennett, Jana
The LSU AgCenter is dedicated to providing innovative research, information and education to improve people's lives. Working in a unique statewide network of parish extension offices, research stations and academic departments, the LSU AgCenter helps Louisiana citizens make the best use of natural resources, protect the environment, enhance agricultural enterprises and develop human and community resources.
County Agent Jim McCann trained thirty-five private pesticide applicators during recertification meetings held in Caldwell, LaSalle and surrounding parishes. Applicators received current information on drift record keeping, bees, labeling and worker protection standards.
An LSU AgCenter test plot containing ten corn varieties was planted by a local producer. Agent Jim McCann will monitor the plot and collect data on rainfall and fertilization rates, tillage and weed, insect and disease control requirements to help farmers choose varieties that will produce the best yields.
Area cattle producers were given updates on current FSA cattle programs in Caldwell and LaSalle parishes.
Agent Jim McCann visited local producers to collect data on parish animal, plant, forestry and wildlife commodities for the LSU AgCenter's 2019 Ag Summary. This annual publication tabulates the value of Louisiana's agriculture and is a resource used by farmers, government agencies, businesses and students.
Twenty-two homeowners received assistance with disease and insect issues in their home gardens and lawns, soil sampling to determine fertilization rates and water sampling to address issues in their recreational ponds.
Agent Jim McCann attended the Northeast Louisiana Crops Forum held in Delhi to receive updates on the latest research in corn, cotton and soybean production. This regional event provided valuable rowcrop information to benefit area agricultural producers.
Three 4-H Livestock Show Team members were helped with preparations for the Northeast District Livestock Show held in Delhi. Show Team members with their livestock projects won numerous awards for their exhibits, showmanship skills and premier exhibitor knowledge. By participating in the livestock project and entering livestock shows, members developed confidence in their showmanship skills and gained knowledge in how to care for livestock. Team member Daisy Duke also competed in the state LSU AgCenter Livestock Show held in Gonzales where she was awarded Reserve Champion Bantam for her poultry entry.
Five Caldwell Parish 4-H members represented our 4-H program at the Area Cookery Contest presenting their first place dishes from the parish Fall Foods Festival. Caldwell participants received one Third Place award, four Blue Ribbon awards, and one Red Ribbon award. The cookery contest allows 4-H'ers to display their cooking skills as well as learn about health and fitness topics. Caldwell Parish 4-H Junior Leader and Region Board Member Rowdy James Michaud served as a volunteer during the healthy living educational session.
Agent Jana Bennett participated in this years' Ag Alley held in January as part of Ag Expo. Ag Alley is an interactive educational program that brings agriculture to life with hands-on learning activities about how food and other agricultural products are made. First and fourth grade students touring the exhibits learned where their food comes from and enjoyed visiting the animals in the mini-farm.
Twenty-seven Caldwell 4-H members participated in the Northern Regional Shooting Sports Competition in shotgun, rifle and archery disciplines. Twenty-one qualified to compete at the State Shooting Sports competition which was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
During monthly 4-H and Cloverbud club meetings presented by 4-H agent Jana Bennett, approximately 388 youth participated in club programs on MyPlate, "Go, Slow, Whoa" foods, Greasy Grid, Dealing with Disappointment, Diversity Awareness and Disability Awareness. The Cloverbud program is designed especially for young children who are not yet old enough to become 4-H members.
Twenty 4-H members participated in the Communication and Career Day held in February where they competed in demonstration, personal development interview and ambassador talk contests. Sixteen members entered the Beef Poster contest and learned about beef by creating a poster that tells the story of beef and its value to our health and economy. Nineteen entries were submitted for the Dairy Billboard contest which promotes dairy education throughout Louisiana.
The COVID-19 pandemic and stay-at-home order caused many in-person 4-H contests and events to be canceled. No club meetings were held during the month of April. The 4-H Pet Show was changed to a virtual format on the Caldwell 4-H Facebook page with 94 members participating by submitting pictures of their pets. The contest was spread over three days with each category having its own day. The Fishing Clinic was held virtually with 37 members participating. Members submitted pictures of themselves fishing and catching fish. The annual 4-H Awards Night was also held virtually with 15 4-Star members and six 4-Star Junior Leader members being recognized with a video on Caldwell 4-H Facebook. Graduating 4-H seniors were recognized on Caldwell's 4-H Facebook and in a video posted on the State 4-H Facebook page. 4-H Camp and 4-H University were held virtually as well. Members interested in virtual camp registered online to participate in the four week event. Each week had a different educational focus with lessons posted on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. While not all 4-H University events could be converted to a virtual format, members across the state were able to use their smart phones, computers and other technologies to present speeches, compete in photography, tractor driving, food identification, a virtual fashion show and many other contests. Caldwell 4-H member Tyler Reitzell won a blue ribbon for her fashion entry in the It's SEW You Contest.
Membership and participation in activities and events are open to all citizens without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, veteran status or disability. If you have a disability that requires special accommodation for your participation, please contact us at 318-649-2663. The LSU AgCenter and LSU provide equal opportunities in programs and employment.
