The LSU AgCenter is dedicated to providing innovative research, information and education to improve people’s lives. Working in a 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.
Nutrition & Community Health (NCH) programs offer youth and adult nutrition education and community outreach in Claiborne Parish. We provide three major programs: SNAP-Ed, CDC High Obesity Program and Flavors of Health. The SNAP-Ed program offers free nutrition lessons and information to SNAP recipients. The LSU AgCenter CDC- HOP program is an initiative that makes Louisiana towns healthier places to live, work, learn, and play. We help communities identify local food and physical activity needs. Then, local coalitions work together to make healthy food and physical activity safe, accessible, and affordable for the whole community. The Flavors of Health program focuses on general nutrition and health, offering classes and workshops on a variety of topics that empower individuals and families to make healthy food and fitness choices.
The Claiborne Parish 4-H Youth Development program provides youth ages 9-19 with opportunities to build a sense of belonging in their communities. Participants develop life skills through workshops, trips, club meetings, and social activities. About 16% of the 1,383 students in grades 2-12 are enrolled, including those from local schools. The program focuses on leadership, character development, and service, with yearly educational themes shaped by input from both adults and youth. Activities include Outdoor Skills Shooting Sports, Livestock Club, and Junior Leadership. The Shooting Sports program emphasizes firearm safety, environmental responsibility, and civic engagement. The Water Fest program educated over 300 youth on water conservation in 2024, and the Clover Buds program serves 2nd and 3rd grade students.
Our parish provides citizens with a variety of services. These included soil sampling through LSU AgCenter Soil Lab., forage and hay sampling and water sampling through LSU AgCenter Chemistry Department. Staff of our office work closely with local commodity groups such as the Claiborne Parish Cattlemen’s Association and governmental organizations such as USDA, NRCS, SUDA Farn Service Agency and the Claiborne Parish Farm Bureau Federation to increase knowledge and assist area stockholders through a wide variety of educational opportunities.
4-H Clubs, school enrichment, field days, publications, newsletters, class series, website, social media, and workshops
150 volunteers from 4-H, Cattlemen, Claiborne Fair Association, Claiborne Master Gardeners, Masters, family, and community.
Our stakeholders at the parish level are the local supporters and beneficiaries of the LSU AgCenter cooperative extension programs. Their support keeps these critical programs in their communities.