About the LSU AgCenter

The LSU AgCenter is dedicated to providing innovative research, information, and education to improve people’s lives. Working in a 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.

Agriculture and Natural Resources - Carol Pinnell-Alison

Private Pesticide Applicator Recertification meetings are held between January and March every year for applicators whose cards expire at the end of March. Applicator cards are valid for three years and can be renewed by attending a recertification meeting before the card’s expiration date. If an applicator lets a card expire or if a new applicator, testing is required for certification. Presentations were given at the two Franklin Parish recertification meetings with 64 pesticide applicators renewing their card.

A Worker Protection Standard (WPS) handler training was held with 33 agricultural employees attending. All employees who work at an agricultural establishment that produces an agricultural plant are required to attend annual training.

Ag Adventures was held at the Delhi Civic Center with 414 youth grades first through fourth from northeast Louisiana participating. Educational rotations at the event covered pollinators, parts of plants we eat and farm animals.

The annual corn core block on-farm variety demonstration has been planted. Plans are to plant a cotton and soybean core block variety demonstration also.

A Franklin Parish Ag Tour was organized for Franklin Parish High School Special Needs students where we toured the Miller’s Dairy, the Macon Ridge Research Station and the Sweet Potato Research Station.

4-H Youth and Family Development

January: Youth in the sewing club created patriotic tote bags in recognition of the upcoming 250th birthday of the United States. Participants practiced sewing fundamentals while expressing creativity through red, white, and blue designs.

February: Franklin Parish youth participated in the district livestock show, where several exhibitors earned blue ribbons and Grand Champion titles. Youth demonstrated strong showmanship skills, animal care knowledge, and dedication through their project work.

March: Franklin Parish youth competed in the Northern Regional Shooting Sports Match, where the BB team earned 1st place. Team members showcased strong marksmanship, focus, and sportsmanship throughout the competition. As a result of their success, the team will advance to compete at the state level.

Nutrition and Community Health (NCH) - Quincy Vidrine

The MERIT Culinary Garden Project continues to demonstrate strong progress and community impact. The Fall/Winter Garden yielded collard and mustard greens, radishes, and a variety of culinary herbs. Hands-on cooking activities involving youth and adults with special needs are scheduled to begin in June 2026.

In preparation for summer programming, TeenChef participants will begin training in May 2026 to serve as instructors for the Summer 2026 KidChef camps. TeenChefs play a key leadership role by mentoring younger participants and assisting with camp instruction.

Summer KidChef camps will be offered in Winnsboro at the Franklin Parish Library Learning Center, sponsored by Friends of Crowville, and in Baskin at the Baskin Community Center, sponsored by the Baskin Community Group. Camps are provided at no cost to youth ages 9–12. Each camp will offer 15 participant slots, and youth may attend one session per summer to maximize access and participation opportunities across the parish.

Matt Lee, LSU Vice President for Agriculture, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station, Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service, LSU College of Agriculture. The LSU AgCenter provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. Additional info: www.lsuagcenter.com/eeo