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 - Carol Pinnell-Alison

The cotton core block variety on-farm demonstration was harvested. We appreciate Kody and Melanie Beavers cooperating with the LSU AgCenter with this demonstration. The corn, cotton and soybean yields were good. Unfortunately crop prices remain low.

Presentations were given to the Wisner Garden Club, a Master Gardener Class in St. Joseph, WPS Handler training in Pioneer, the East Carroll private pesticide applicator recertification in Lake Providence and the Winnsboro/Franklin Chamber of Commerce Farmer’s Appreciation Banquet.

For the third time, an Ag Tour of the parish was given to the current Leadership Franklin class. Sixteen class members toured the Haring Catfish processing plant in Wisner, they were given information on how our field corn is marketed at the Anderson Grain Elevator in Wisner, learned about the research being conducted at the Sweet Potato Research Station at Chase, learned how drones are being used in agriculture and got a demonstration of a drone flying at the Macon Ridge Research Station. The tour wrapped up at Miller’s Dairy in Baskin where they are using GPS cattle collars for moving the cattle with virtual fencing.

A private pesticide applicator recertification meeting was held in December for those producers whose cards will be expiring in March 2026.We had 51 producers attend the meeting. Several other meetings will be held in our region to give applicators options for getting their applicator cards renewed.

4-H Youth and Family Development – Hannah Craddock

October: Junior leaders met on October 21st to plan their year of service projects and fundraisers. The meeting consisted of 12 participants. The club has since grown to 17 members.

November: Franklin parish hosted a commodity cookery contest with 12 youth competing and 6 youth helping! Our Best of Show winner, Belana Davis, took home the “Golden Spatula Award” with her Brown Butter Sweet Potato Cheesecake Bars!

December: Franklin Parish started a sewing club back in November. With 14 youth learning the skill and 10 adult volunteers, our master seamstresses in the making created stockings for the December 2nd meeting! We want to thank Northeast Louisiana Power Cooperative for donating 12 machines to our club!

Nutrition and Community Health – Quincy Vidrine

Crowville School Garden – Farm to Table Project

As part of our Farm to Table initiative, Crowville School harvested 20 sacks of fresh mustard and collard greens from the school garden and served during a special cafeteria lunch.We extend our sincere thanks to Franklin Parish School Board Food Service Director, Shelia Nolan, and Crowville School Cafeteria Manage, Mrs. Taylor, for making this event possible.Providing tastings and exposing students to new foods increases the likelihood they will try and enjoy healthier options, supporting lifelong habits for a nutritious diet.

The Germ Cave Exhibit at Baskin School

In October, Baskin School hosted the Germ Cave interactive walk-through exhibit, teaching students how to prevent the spread of germs and illness by fostering healthy habits.Sponsored by the Baskin Community Committee provided a generous donation to provide all materials and supplies needed for this exciting event. Every student from PreK through 8^th grade toured the exhibit, supported by 13 community and parent volunteers, with lunch generously provided by Principal Mr. Young.Impressively, 89% of students indicated they would practice better handwashing after visiting the Germ Cave.Special thanks to the Baskin Community Committee for their support in making this educational experience possible.