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

As of August 1, 2024, the LSU AgCenter has made a new hire in Nate Jennings for the ANR Agent in Richland Parish Office. He is originally from Oak Ridge, La. Nate graduated from the University of Louisiana at Monroe with a degree in Agribusiness. He has furthered his background in agriculture by helping scout fields as well as selling agriculture products. Since accepting the role as ANR Agent, Nate has met with producers to assist harvesting demo plots that were planted with the AgCenter.

In Richland Parish, there was a total of 114,297.5 planted row crop acres. Mostly consisting of soybeans at 49,284.6 acres, corn at 39,824.5 acres, and cotton with 20,051.6 acres. Corn harvest in our parish has been completed. Soybeans are very close to being completely harvested as well as rice. We have experienced minimal damage in soybeans from the rains the week prior and after Hurricane Francine in beans that were already desiccated for harvest. Cotton harvest is currently ramping up with no reports of any problematic concerns currently.

4-H Youth and Family Development – Morgan Whitehead

4-H Camp – Richland Parish sent 21 youth and 4 high school students to Camp Grant Walker in Pollock, La. 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. A highlight of the week was when 5 girls from Richland Parish took the stage during the special ceremony to light the 4-H camp sign.

Challenge Camp – A small selection of students attended the Challenge Camp at Seeker Springs in Eros, La. These students got to meet with peers from all over the NE Region and work together to do a service-learning project. The service project this year was to attend the Veterans Home in Monroe, La. and spend time playing bingo and engaging with the veterans. The students also made keychains as a thank you during one of their sessions. The students got to experience a high rope course, low rope course, operate drones, and play a game with wetlands. The main challenge was the shelter building challenge where they had to collaborate with their peers to create a shelter that withstand the wind and rain.

Nutrition and Community Health (NCH) – Brittney Newsome

Chef and Fitness Camp: During the last week of July, LSU AgCenter Nutrition and Community Health, 4-H, and Southern AgCenter agents hosted a CHEF and Fitness Camp for ten youth ages 9-17 at the Delhi Civic Center. Participants started the day with learning about MyPlate and the importance of healthy eating, snacking, and physical activity. Next, the youth conducted hands -on culinary activities to prepare their meals for the day which ranged from knife skills and understanding kitchen equipment and food safety techniques. Our participants ended each day with Fitness Fun (sponsored by Northeast LA Power Coop) that consisted of Cardio Drumming, Dodge Ball, Yoga, and many other fun activities to promote a healthier lifestyle.

Home Food Preservation Workshop: As we transition into the Fall months, the LSU AgCenter’s Nutrition and Community Health and Horticulture agent, along with SU AgCenter Family and Consumer Science Agent conducted a Home Small Fruit Production and Preservation “From Juice to Jars” Workshop at the Delhi Feed and Supply Store. Eight participants learned all about small fruit production in the home orchard, how to properly preserve the fruits being grown, followed by a demonstration on how to make Muscadine Jelly.