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(Radio News 11/09/09) Under threatening skies, workers at the LSU AgCenter's Sweet Potato Research Station recently rushed to harvest several rows of sweet potatoes. Like the situation faced by many farmers, harvest was slow because of wet conditions, and the potatoes that came out of the field were covered in mud and hard to sort. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(TV News 11/09/09) Sweet potato farmers suffered a big loss last year after Hurricane Gustav devastated their crop. While there is no specific storm to blame this year, weather could ruin another crop. (Runtime: 1:23)
(Radio News 11/30/09) Researchers at the LSU AgCenter’s Southeast Research Station are helping dairy producers become more efficient while lowering costs. Station director Dr. Mike McCormick says one way is showing them how to cut down on unnecessary nutrients in their herd’s diet. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Radio News 11/23/09) Dairy producers have struggled in recent years. Producers in Louisiana face additional obstacles, says LSU AgCenter dairy researcher Dr. Mike McCormick. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Radio News 11/2/09) Thousands of Louisianians enjoy hunting this time of the year, but LSU AgCenter hunting safety expert Dr. Don Reed says accidents can happen, even before hunting season opens. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Radio News 11/23/09) Wheat does not like wet conditions, and rain in October and November has delayed planting in Louisiana. LSU AgCenter wheat specialist Dr. Ed Twidwell says growers were able to get some of their crop planted during recent dry spells. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Radio News 11/16/09) Family traditions and rituals have been shown to strengthen families regardless of income levels and religious beliefs. LSU AgCenter family life specialist Dr. Diane Sasser talks about this during November’s family life month. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Radio News 11/23/09) For a second year in a row, weather has ruined a portion of Louisiana commodities. Hurricanes Gustav and Ike were the culprits last year, but this year farmers don’t have a named storm to blame, just plenty of rain. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Radio News 11/23/09) Louisiana could have fewer acres of wheat. Growers are planting the 2010 crop, and LSU AgCenter wheat specialist Dr. Ed Twidwell expects to see a drop in acreage. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(TV News 11/16/09) The goal of an LSU AgCenter’s research station is to waste no wood. Forestry research is the focus at the Calhoun station in northeast Louisiana. (Runtime: 1:45)
(Radio News 11/09/09) A turkey typically is the star of the Thanksgiving feast. When purchasing a turkey, cooks must make sure they buy enough to feed their crowd. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Radio News 11/30/09) A three-stage lagoon system at the LSU AgCenter’s Southeast Research Station is treating waste on the dairy farm. The system traps nutrients and breaks them down before they leave the farm through water runoff. If growers can’t reuse excess manure as fertilizer, LSU AgCenter dairy researcher Dr. Vinicius Moreira says environmental problems can occur. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Radio News 11/23/09) Early estimates put rain-related crop damage at $275 million. Many of the state’s commodities were at the height of harvest season when frequent rains started in September. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Radio News 11/16/09) Strong family ties were an important factor in helping people recover from hurricanes. LSU AgCenter family life specialist Dr. Diane Sasser worked on a project that looked at disaster recovery. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Radio News 11/16/09) Dr. Michael Blazier is looking to forests for biofuel. The LSU AgCenter forestry researcher says two percent of U.S. electricity comes from wood, but Blazier sees a greater potential. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Radio News 11/16/09) During American Diabetes Month, LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames is reminding people that healthful eating is important in managing and preventing diabetes. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Radio News 11/2/09) Hunters taking shortcuts could lead to serious injuries or death. LSU AgCenter hunting safety expert, Dr. Don Reed says a hunter should never climb into a stand with a gun on his or her back. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Radio News 11/09/09) Enjoy your Thanksgiving feast and then put the food away promptly, recommends LSU AgCenter nutritionist and food safety expert Dr. Beth Reames. The turkey and side dishes shouldn’t sit out for more than two hours. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Radio News 11/16/09) LSU AgCenter researcher Dr. Hui Pan is using a technique that liquefies wood. She can separate preservative chemicals, such as chromated copper arsenate or CCA, from treated wood products such as old telephone poles. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Radio News 11/30/09) An artificial Christmas tree cannot compete with the fragrance and beauty of a real one, but a real tree will require some care throughout the holiday season. LSU AgCenter forestry specialist Dr. Don Reed explains. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Radio News 11/30/09) The Christmas tree is an iconic symbol of the holidays. The freshest trees can be found at choose-and-cut tree farms. According to LSU AgCenter forestry specialist Dr. Don Reed, the popular tree on Christmas tree farms in Louisiana is the Leyland cypress. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Radio News 11/09/09) Frying a turkey is a popular tradition for many Louisiana families during the holidays. While a fried turkey may not seem very healthful, LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames says it won’t wreck your diet. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Radio News 11/09/09) A new sweet potato processing facility in northeast Louisiana is offering hope to Louisiana’s sweet potato industry. ConAgra’s Lamb Weston Division will build the facility near Delhi, says LSU AgCenter sweet potato specialist Dr. Tara Smith. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Radio News 11/30/09) Certain varieties of Christmas trees can be grown in Louisiana. For homeowners interested in growing their own, a good place to start is a local nursery or a Christmas tree farm, says LSU AgCenter wildlife and forestry specialist Dr. Don Reed. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Distributed 11/20/09) LAFAYETTE, La. – Current trends affecting Louisiana food and agriculture highlighted a recent meeting of state leaders in agriculture and agribusiness.
(Distributed 11/04/09) Lead poisoning is a disease caused by swallowing or breathing anything that has lead in it. Even tiny amounts of lead can harm a child in many ways.
(Distributed 11/10/09) Pies are traditionally served at most Thanksgiving feasts. To prevent food-borne illness, refrigerate pies such as pumpkin, custard and other cream pies containing eggs and milk, says LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.
(Distributed 11/27/09) There is a gardening philosophy that is becoming increasingly influential in American gardens. Often called sustainable gardening, the concept involves native plant materials well adapted to the local environments, reduced pesticide use, reduced maintenance and an attempt to create a more natural habitat rather than a decorative garden.
(Distributed 11/20/09) Try a different tack as you head into this holiday season. Vow to move more and eat less, says Heli Roy, LSU AgCenter nutritionist. “Most people invariably gain weight over the holidays – anywhere from a half pound to five pounds,” Roy said. “But you don’t have to, and most people can’t afford to.”
(Distributed 11/23/09) As Louisiana cooks shop for their Thanksgiving meal, they’ll find costs for the basic dinner items down about nine percent from last year, according LSU AgCenter family economist Dr. Jeanette Tucker. The 2009 Thanksgiving market basket will average $37.52 for 10 people, compared to $41.30 last year.
(Distributed 11/20/09) Including a water feature in the landscape provides an oasis for a wide variety of wildlife. Providing habitat for wildlife is a principle of sustainable landscaping, and as a result aquatic gardens have become quite popular with Louisiana gardeners.
(Distributed 11/17/09) November and December begin the bleak time of the year for warm-season turfgrasses in Louisiana. Most turfgrasses should be dormant or at least close to this stage.
(Distributed 11/16/09) Don't have room in your oven for the turkey, dressing, sweet potatoes, casseroles and pies? LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames suggests you can free-up oven space by frying the turkey outside.
(Distributed 11/06/09) Thanksgiving is a perfect time to enjoy Louisiana yams. The Louisiana yam is an exceptional type of sweet potato – sweet and flavorful, with a soft, moist flesh, says LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames .
(Distributed 11/12/09) Turkey is the traditional choice for most Thanksgiving celebrations. There is no quality difference between a fresh or frozen turkey although fresh turkeys have shorter shelf lives, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.
(Distributed 11/06/09) Truancy problems go beyond the school grounds, and an LSU AgCenter family life specialist says it is a problem for the community.
(Audio 11/09/09) Perennials are great for landscapes because they require less time and effort than annual plants. These plants still require some maintenance, and now is a great time to do this. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/09/09) If you are thinking about adding brilliant color to your fall landscape, chrysanthemums would be a great choice. Nurseries are full of wonderful chrysanthemums during the fall. Listen to how you can buy, plant and care for these colorful fall flowers in these Get It Growing tips from LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/02/09) Chrysanthemums are known as the queens of the fall garden. They provide landscapes with a wide range of beautiful colors. Here are some pointers for purchasing and planting chrysanthemums. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/30/09) Our mild winters allow insects to be a potential problem all year long. This is a good time to monitor your plants and keep an eye out for pests such as aphids. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/02/09) Irrigating landscapes may still be necessary during the fall, especially for newly established plants. Even though the weather is becoming cooler, it can still be fairly dry. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/16/09) Ryegrass is a wonderful alternative to having a brown lawn this time of the year, and it only requires minimal maintenance. Because it is a temporary cool-season grass, it is possible to over-seed your permanent grass with either perennial or annual ryegrass. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/23/09) Louisiana gardeners can grow a wide variety of fruit. Now is a great time to plant fruit and nut trees to allow time for establishment. Learn more about the many kinds of fruit trees that can be grown successfully in Louisiana. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/23/09) While many vegetables often appear untamed in the garden, many winter vegetables tend to be wonderfully neat and attractive. Add some beauty to your garden by planting ornamental vegetables for the cool season. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/02/09) Louisiana can begin to experience freezing temperatures anywhere from late fall to early winter, so it is important to start preparing yards for the impending frosts. Now is the time to survey landscapes to determine what is in need of winter protection. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(For Release On Or After 11/06/09) Hedges can create privacy, block unwanted views, screen out noise and serve other important roles in our landscape. If you’re considering planting a new hedge or replacing a lost one, now is a great time to get it done.
(Audio 11/02/09) Scale insects are a nuisance on ornamentals, and they are especially difficult to control. Using oil sprays is an effective way to manage scale insects. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/16/09) For spring-flowering bulbs to bloom in the spring, they must be planted during the fall. Keep in mind that some spring-flowering bulbs, such as tulips and hyacinths, require special preparation. Find out more about how to plant and prepare spring-flowering bulbs. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Video 11/16/09) Believe it or not, fall is a great time to plant certain roses. On this edition of Get It Growing, LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill explains what to look for at the nursery now and where to put these beautiful and durable plants. (Runtime: 1:27)
(Audio 11/09/09) During the fall and winter, many trees begin to shed their foliage. Instead of ignoring fallen leaves from shade trees, learn ways you can remove them to avoid damage to your lawn and benefit your landscape. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Video 11/09/09) The orchid family is one of the largest groups of flowering plants in the world. In this edition of Get It Growing, LSU AgCenter horticulturist Dan Gill explains the two most common types of orchids grown in Louisiana, as well as some tips for their proper care. (Runtime: 1:41)
(For Release On Or After 11/13/09) This is the time of year to plant cool-season bedding plants in your flowerbeds. These plants will thrive in the cool to cold weather of fall to spring and keep your flowerbeds looking attractive.
(Audio 11/16/09) Many gardeners neglect their gardens during the winter, disregarding the wonderful array of cool-season bedding plants available. These flowering plants enjoy chilly weather, but they also will flourish during the spring. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/30/09) Leaves are valuable in the garden as mulch or compost. Composting doesn't have to be difficult or expensive. Use fencing to make your bin and follow these instructions. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/23/09) Not only is broccoli one of the most nutritious vegetables we can grow, it is also one of the easiest to grow. Gardeners who planted broccoli in September should be seeing some ready to be harvested. Find out what to look for when harvesting broccoli. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/23/09) Summer-flowering bulbs are native to warm climates, so they thrive in Louisiana due to the long, hot summer. However, these bulbs will usually go dormant during the winter. Learn how to care for these summer-flowering bulbs during wintertime. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/09/09) There are many vegetables that will flourish during the winter in Louisiana. These vegetables not only are some of the most delicious and nutritious, but they also are some of the easiest to grow. Learn about the best cool-season vegetables to keep your vegetable garden thriving throughout the winter. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/16/09) Lettuce is a terrific cool-season vegetable and can be grown this time of the year. Gardeners should consider growing fresh lettuce to provide delicious nutrition in salads. Hear about which types of lettuce grow well in Louisiana gardens. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(For Release On Or After 11/27/09) A variety of spring-flowering bulbs can be grown in containers for indoor display. Two bulbs, paperwhites and amaryllis, do not need much special treatment and are very easy to grow in pots. Most of the other spring-flowering bulbs need a cold treatment first, but otherwise it’s pretty straightforward.
(Audio 11/16/09) The most common pest on camellias is known as tea scale. These insects cause the yellow blotches found on some leaves, and they also can cause the camellia to bloom improperly. Prevent a scale infestation by spraying camellias with horticultural oils. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/23/09) Even though amaryllis bulbs become available in the fall, this is not the time to plant them in your landscape. Grow these beautiful, massive flowers indoors this winter. Discover more about amaryllis. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio 11/02/09) Although most gardeners consider raking a chore, the leaves that fall during the autumn months can serve a purpose. They make wonderful organic matter when used as mulch or in compost. Learn how these materials can be used for improving gardening efforts. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(Audio11/09/09) Many broadleaf evergreen shrubs and trees are popular in Louisiana landscapes. Even though they are considered evergreen, some of these trees may lose a fraction of their foliage during the winter. (Runtime: 60 seconds)
(For Release On Or After 11/20/09) Gardens are full of plant materials that can add unique beauty to your holiday decorations. Be on the lookout for attractive foliage, bright berries, decorative cones or pods, and consider other landscape materials that can be dried and brought in for the holidays.
(Distributed 11/02/09) SHREVEPORT, La. – While 2,000 students tour the LSU AgCenter’s AgMagic at the State Fair on Nov. 4-6, another 1,500 will have participated in an education program focused on germs and hand washing, according to Cathryn Robinson, assistant extension agent in Caddo and Bossier parishes.
(Distributed 11/03/09) CROWLEY, La. – Three LSU AgCenter scientists have been named to F. Avalon Daggett Professorships in Rice Research. Dr. Chuck Rush, Dr. Don Groth and Dr. Eric Webster were recognized at a reception at the LSU AgCenter Rice Research Station Oct. 27.
(Distributed 11/20/09) LSU AgCenter has been awarded a $2.84 million research and extension grant for improving sweet potato production efficiency, quality and food safety.
(Distributed 11/09/09) The LSU AgCenter is seeking photos for its 2011 Get It Growing Lawn and Garden Calendar. Louisiana photographers can submit their photos of flowers, plants and gardens for an opportunity to have their work selected for the calendar.
(Distributed 11/02/09) CROWLEY, La. – Saving Louisiana’s coast with vegetation was the focus of a coastal plants field day at the LSU AgCenter Rice Research Station Oct. 28.
(Distributed 11/25/09) Sugarcane farmers are taking advantage of good weather and improving prices as they progress into the more productive phase of this year’s harvest. “Farmers are optimistic that their yields will be better than normal,” said Ben Legendre, LSU AgCenter sugarcane specialist. “We have some of the best yields we’ve seen in terms of tons of cane per acre.”
(Distributed 11/25/09) Tom H. Scott, a fixture in Louisiana agriculture and long-time support of 4-H during his lifetime, was inducted posthumously into the National 4-H Hall of Fame for 2009. Scott was one of 15 individuals across the country inducted. His daughter, Betty Cummins of Mangham, accepted the honor for the family. Scott died in 2001.
(Distributed 11/23/09) HOMER, La. – The LSU AgCenter will open two poultry demonstration houses in early 2010 in which real-life operations will help improve management practices for the industry.
(Distributed 11/20/09) SHREVEPORT, La. – Rain has delayed the pecan harvest across the state by two to three weeks, but plenty of the crop should be available for the holiday season.
(Distributed 11/19/09) Louisiana’s dairy industry continues to struggle. The high costs for feed, fuel and fertilizer have cut into potential profits. And while these costs have gone down somewhat this year, so have the prices farmers get for their milk, said LSU AgCenter extension dairy specialist Charlie Hutchison at a field day on Nov. 12 at the Southeast Research Station in Franklinton.
(Distributed 11/23/09) Nine 4-H’ers represented Louisiana at the National 4-H Poultry and Egg Conference in Louisville, Ky., on Nov. 18-19, according to Dr. Theresia Lavergne, LSU AgCenter poultry specialist and leader of the 4-H poultry project.
(Distributed 11/06/09) SHREVEPORT, La. – AgMagic, a new exhibit at the State Fair of Louisiana, can be likened to opening a fun encyclopedia. Only all of the five senses are involved while learning takes place.
(Distributed 11/13/09) OAK GROVE, La. – Three West Carroll Parish high school students were able to create digital fire district maps using Global Information System (GIS) technology, which they learned in a special training offered through the LSU AgCenter’s Delta Rural Development Center here. The result is a safer parish.
(Distributed 11/25/09) All eight students in Sabine Parish who received the Discovering Tomorrow’s Leaders awards, a program sponsored by Chesapeake Energy, are members of 4-H. Discovering Tomorrow’s Leaders is designed to recognize and reward local school students for their citizenship and community involvement.
(Distributed 11/10/09) A Bossier Parish 4-H’er was recognized as a Louisiana Leader of Tomorrow by the Special Olympics of Louisiana. Amanda Pittmon, 19, of Benton, was named Entrepreneur of the Year.
(Distributed 11/24/09) FOLSOM, La. – Growing citrus on a commercial level is not something you expect to see north of Covington, but one grower is proving it can be done – if the weather is favorable. Sherwood Loyd from Folsom said he saw an opportunity in the wake of Hurricane Katrina that has proven to be a wise decision that’s beginning to pay off.
(Distributed 11/02/09) After two major hurricanes in 2008, most Louisiana agricultural producers were hoping for a much-improved production environment in 2009. Unfortunately, 2009 has once again been a challenging one for the agricultural sector, according to an LSU AgCenter agricultural economist.
(Distributed 11/04/09) CARENCRO, La. – Having bulls tested for reproductive soundness is a simple precautionary measure that could prevent a disastrous year for a cattle producer, said Stan Dutile, LSU AgCenter extension agent in Lafayette Parish, who was among the speakers at a cattle field day here on Oct. 31.
(News Distributed 11/06/2009) HAMMOND, La. – Landscape and nursery professionals heard about the latest plant varieties and LSU AgCenter plant evaluations at a plant materials conference here Oct. 29.
