About the LSU AgCenter

The LSU AgCenter provides 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.

Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR)- Nate Jennings

Crops have been harvested in Richland Parish. Yield averages are still being calculated but expected to be close to last year’s yields across all crops. We experienced wet conditions towards the end of soybean harvest with some quality damage in beans expected, but little was reported. The wet weather was suspected to impact cotton harvest as well, but it appears there were limited problems with cotton quality. The LSU AgCenter is preparing to hold recertification meetings for private pesticide applicator cards in the coming months before planting season begins.

4-H Youth and Family Development – Morgan Whitehead

AG Safety Day - Over 300 5th graders from all over Richland Parish got to experience Ag Safety Day that was held at Poverty Point in Delhi. This event was held in collaboration with the Richland Parish Sheriff's Office, along with some other companies in Richland to help teach the children different safety measures. The students that participated got to learn about Air Evac, Fire Safety, Boat Safety, and Tractor Safety, and how these safety measures are valuable to daily lives.

Collegiate Tour Day – Six of the Richland Parish 4-H Jr. Leaders went on a day tour of Louisiana Tech University. These leaders were paired with a senior level student tour guide who conducted a thorough tour of the campus, explained the enrollment process, and shared scholarship information. The leaders were then taken to the library, where a short presentation was conducted by Mrs. Emily Poole which provided a breakdown of the different majors and minors at the university. Lastly, the Jr. Leaders were able to meet with professors on South Campus in the Agriculture and Forestry Department. They were able to share their interest and plans for college, as well as ask questions and network with other staff members.

Nutrition and Community Health (NCH) – Brittney Newsome

Diabetes and the Holidays - During National Diabetes Awareness Month, participants from the Diabetes Support Group at the Delhi Hospital learned some simple tips on how to eat healthy around the holidays. These tips focus on how to manage blood glucose levels, decrease high fat, high calorie, and high sugar/ sodium foods and beverages that we traditionally consume. Participants learned the importance of using herbs and spices to flavor their food and how to adjust recipes to make them healthier. We concluded the presentation by preparing and enjoying a tasty Lasagna Soup. Be sure to visit your local Richland Parish Library Branch to pick up a sample of an herb or spice each month.

Youth Baking Workshop - Educating youth on how to properly bake increases their skills in the kitchen by learning measuring techniques, reading recipes, food safety, and in this workshop, working together as a team. During fall break, 4-Her’s participated in a baking workshop held at the Rayville Methodist Church by the Extension Nutrition Agent. These youth were asked to make homemade soft pretzels and gingerbread cookies. A huge appreciation was learned from these 4-Her’s regarding the time, effort and hard work that goes into baking. Their reward was enjoying their cookies and soft pretzels along with cheese for savoriness and brown sugar, cinnamon, and cream cheese for a sweet treat.