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Louisiana Agriculture Magazine Fall 2022
Livestock in Louisiana Infographic
Livestock industries contribute $2.5 billion to the state’s economy, and beef cattle production is one of the most important sectors of the state’s agricultural enterprise. LSU AgCenter researchers study how to improve cattle production at research stations across the state. AgCenter Extension agents in every parish connect producers with their findings.
In this issue of Louisiana Agriculture magazine, livestock agents and research faculty describe the many programs they have developed to educate cattle producers and help 4-H’ers raise and show animals. Producers discuss what they have learned from Master Cattleman classes, and writer V. Todd Miller details how some cattle raisers have decided to sell meat directly to customers. Also, AgCenter forage scientists explain how to grow higher quality food for cattle and other ruminant animals.
The LSU AgCenter Is There for Louisiana Livestock Producers
Ashley K. Edwards
AgCenter researchers and extension agents assist producers daily by finding ways to make raising animals more profitable and educating those who raise and care for livestock.
Programs Provide Cattlemen With Tools and Knowledge to Be Proficient in Best Practices
Ashley K. Edwards, Vince Deshotel, Jason E. Holmes, A. Lee Faulk, Andrew Granger Stan Dutile, Bradley Pousson and Gary M. Hay
Educational courses for new and experienced cattle producers have been designed by AgCenter professionals.
Seeking Additional Knowledge, Experienced Producers Learn From Master Cattleman Course
Kyle Peveto
Cousins Adam and Jonathan Knight are part of a cattle-producing family, but they still benefitted from the AgCenter Master Cattleman class.
Making the Cut: Direct-to-Consumer Beef Sales on the Rise
V. Todd Miller
Some cattle raisers see the benefits of selling their products directly to buyers, and AgCenter experts have helped them learn.
Extension Program Improves Reproductive Efficiency in Beef Herds
Stanley Dutile
Performing breeding soundness exams on bulls across Acadiana, AgCenter agents have seen an improvement in the health of bulls meant for breeding.
Geaux Beef Heifer Development Program Aims to Improve Female Cattle Development
Ashley Edwards, Lee Faulk, Vincent Deshotel, Jason E. Holmes
Cattle producers who want to raise healthy heifers to replace females culled from their herds can learn from the experts at the AgCenter Hill Farm Research Station through this innovative program.
Livestock Agents Expand Beef Cattle Programming Virtually
Jason E. Holmes, Vincent Deshotel, Ashley K. Edwards and A. Lee Faulk
After the COVID-19 pandemic, AgCenter livestock agents developed innovative ways to connect online with cattle producers.
Family Ties: Growing Kids, Animals and Friendships With 4-H Livestock Shows
Hannah Devall
For the LeLeu family of Arnaudville, raising animals for 4-H shows is a lifestyle. The parents and three children all chip in to ensure everyone succeeds.
Louisiana 4-H Livestock Ambassadors Expand Knowledge Through New Program
Hannah Devall
The Louisiana 4-H Livestock Ambassador Program empowers high school-age 4-H’ers to educate others about the livestock industry.
Forage Quality: How Is It Defined and Measured?
Ed Twidwell and Kun-Jun Han
Good livestock production depends on forage, the grasses and legumes used to feed animals. AgCenter faculty can help producers measure their forage quality.
Utilizing Clover in Forage Production Systems
M.W. Alison and W.D. Pitman
Clovers are high-quality forages for livestock, and they provide many benefits to those who grow them.
AgCenter Provides Cattle Producers With Practical Learning Opportunities
A. Lee Faulk, Vincent Deshotel, Jason E. Holmes and Ashley K. Edwards
Cattle producers can attend classes focused on pregnancy determination and artificial insemination taught by AgCenter experts.
Field Days Link Research, Extension and Production for Producers
Andrew Granger, A. Lee Faulk, Stan Dutile, Vince Deshotel and Jason E. Holmes
At beef and forage field days, AgCenter faculty speak directly to cattle producers to disseminate research-based information.
The Future of Livestock and Poultry Health
Dr. Christine B. Navarre
New technologies are improving livestock and poultry medicine. New vaccines and antibiotic alternatives make animals healthier, and telehealth can lead to more convenient care.
FACULTY PROFILE Finding a Way: Hannah Devall Followed Her Love of Agriculture
Kyle Peveto
Hannah Devall longed to show animals at 4-H shows. She had to work hard to make her dream a reality, and today she helps 4-H’ers reach their goals.
Making a Career Out of Caring for Animals: Q&A With Kristen Head
V. Todd Miller
The 3+1 program allowed the LSU College of Agriculture student to begin training at the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine early.
