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) - Carol Pinnell-Alison

The Sweet Potato Research Station at Chase, La recorded 39 inches of rain from January to June.This is a few inches less than last year for this time.Our normal rainfall for the year is 57 inches.Rainfall is never evenly distributed across the year.Wet conditions did pose some problems planting row crops and harvesting hay.

Field corn acres increased considerably this year in the parish and across the state.Low commodity prices are a concern for our producers.Cattle prices are positive with all-time highs.

The corn, cotton and soybean on-farm variety demonstrations have been planted and look good.We appreciate the producers who are willing to work with us on these demonstrations.

We want to welcome Dr. Jose Pereira Neto as the LSU AgCenter’s new Forage Agronomist located at the Scott Research and Extension Center in Winnsboro.

4-H Youth and Family Development - Hannah Craddock

April: Sixty-three youth attended Franklin Parish Achievement Day.4-H’ers learned about photography, shooting sports, STEM, environmental awareness, healthy living, gardening, and electricity!

May: Eleven youth (six from Franklin Parish and five from Concordia Parish) went to Syrah Technologies to learn about chemical engineering, the process of turning graphite into a usable powder to be made into electric car batteries, and to talk to employees of various educational backgrounds.

June: Five youth attended 4-H University from June 17 through June 20. Each one attended a different contest or educational session. They made a ton of new friends, met 4-H’ers from all sixty-three other parishes, and participated in leadership roles.

Nutrition and Community Health (NCH) - Quincy Vidrine
SNAP Ed Nutritional Educator - Sara Godard

The Nutrition and Community Health Team with the Franklin Parish Extension has been actively engaging both youth and adults in promoting healthy eating and fun physical activities throughout the parish.One of their key partnerships is with the Delta Health American adult group, who meet monthly at MERIT in Winnsboro for interactive classes led by the LSU AgCenter NCH team.During these sessions, participants get hands-on experience preparing nutritious snacks and trying out exciting new exercises like cardio drumming.

In addition to their classes, the adult group has been volunteering at Crowville School and Community Garden.They’ve helped harvest fresh produce including potatoes, carrots, and herbs.Some of the harvest is taken home, while the rest is shared with the community through the “Blessing Box,” providing healthy food options for those in need.