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

During the 2025 growing season, Richland Parish reported a total of 151,078 certified planted acres. The planting and harvest seasons were marked by a combination of economic, environmental, and agronomic challenges, including fluctuations in commodity prices, variable weather patterns, and the emergence of new pest pressure across the region.

Corn led all major commodities in acreage. This increase was due to early season price declines for other commodities, prompting many producers to shift to corn. Soybeans and cotton followed in acreage, while rice accounted for just over 5,100 acres.

Harvest of corn and soybeans across the parish has been completed. Rice harvest is nearing completion, with cotton picking in full swing as well. While some producers have reported satisfactory outcomes, sentiments on yield and quality has been mixed across all harvested crops.

The LSU AgCenter was able to monitor corn and soybean demonstration plots with the collaboration of some local producers in Richland Parish. The demonstration plots yielded results that exceeded the reported averages in 2024, this can provide producers with valuable data for future planting decisions.

Nutrition and Community Health (NCH) – Brittney Newsome

The Colors of MyPlate: This summer, the Richland Parish Libraries hosted a reading program for kids that focused on "The Colors of MyPlate." The program taught 81 youth about healthy eating and the five food groups using the MyPlate guide. Participants read fun and educational books like Eat the Rainbow Foods, I Can Eat a Rainbow, MyPlate and You, and What’s on MyPlate. After reading, they did hands-on activities like a veggie-themed coloring sheet and a MyPlate cling sheet where they placed foods in the correct food groups. The program ended with a food demonstration where kids made a colorful rainbow fruit parfait. It was a fun and tasty way to learn about nutrition!

Nutrition and Health Monthly Series: Over the past few months, nutrition education was shared with adults at Palmetto Addiction and Recovery Center during their lecture time. A total of 138 participants were reached this quarter. The lessons focused on making small changes and building healthy habits, such as choosing better snacks, drinking more water, and adding more fruits and vegetables to meals. Another topic was gut health, which taught participants how foods like yogurt, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables help keep the digestive system working well. These sessions helped clients understand how small steps can lead to big improvements in their health. The goal was to give them simple, practical tips they can use every day. Participants were engaged and asked great questions during the sessions, showing strong interest in learning how to support their recovery through better nutrition.

4-H Youth and Family Development - April Temple

Please help us welcome April Temple, our new Richland Parish Assistant 4-H Agent. April started with us on 9/2, and we are so excited to have her join our 4-H and AgCenter Team!

4-H Camps

During the week of July 14th, Richland Parish sent 13 youth, 2junior leaders, and 2 volunteers to Camp Grant Walker in Pollock, Louisiana, for an unforgettable summer experience. Campers had the opportunity to choose from various tracks, including water safety, food and fitness, wetlands, and STEM, allowing them to explore their interests while learning and making friends. In their free time, they enjoyed playing sports, swimming, and dancing, and ending the night at the Greek Theatre.

Also, at the end of summer, we had 1 student attend LOST (Louisiana Outdoor Science and Technology) camp at Camp Grant Walker. LOST camp is for middle school students, and they participate in various tracks such as videography and SET (science, engineering, and technology.)