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 Sweet Potato Research Station at Chase, La recorded 28 inches of rain from January to June. Franklin Parish had a very dry spring with drought conditions. We finally began to get rain in May and June. Our normal rainfall for the year is 57 inches. Rainfall is never evenly distributed across the yard. Dry conditions posed problems planting row crops and growing forage for cattle in pastures and for hay.

The red potatoes planted in the raised bed in front of the Extension Office at the Franklin Parish Courthouse was harvested mid-June. In the 60 square foot bed, 74 pounds of potatoes were produced. The initial cost of $3.75 for three pounds of seed potatoes provided a $92.50 value of potatoes. The only other expense in the production of these potatoes was the time used for planting, hand weeding occasionally, watering and harvesting.

The corn, cotton and soybean on-farm variety demonstrations have been planted and look good. We appreciate the producers who are willing to collaborate with us on these demonstrations.

We want to welcome Myra Purvis as the new Associate Extension Agent in Agronomy for Franklin Parish. Myra started May 18, 2026. She has been with the LSU AgCenter for over 20 years, previously working at the Macon Ridge Research Station for Dr. Trey Price as a Research Associate. She graduated from Louisiana Tech with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agronomy and completed a Master of Science degree in Plant Pathology from LSU. Myra is looking forward to serving in her new position and getting to know more producers and consultants in Franklin Parish.

4-H Youth and Family Development - Hannah Craddock Watson

April: Franklin Parish had Achievement Day at the Sweet Potato Research Station with 107 youths in attendance. Participants learned about livestock, sewing, wildlife, and much more!

May: In collaboration with Concordia Parish 4-H, ten youth were brought to Syrah Technologies, LLC., to learn about chemical engineering, speak with staff/personnel, and opportunities that are available besides a secondary education.

June: 9 Youth were brought to Baton Rouge, LA to attend 4-H University! Dances, contests, educational sessions, and so much more! We say congratulations and farewell (for now) to Eli Rogers and hope he will come back as a volunteer next year!

In addition to 4-H University, Franklin Parish hosted the Northeast District Horse Show at the Rawhide Robinson Activity Center. Franklin Parish had 7 participants that each brought back several awards, ribbons, and placings. Kelsi won first place in barrel racing and went to state to win first place there as well.

Nutrition and Community Health - Quincy Vidrine

Small Changes, Healthy Habits conducted in Crowville at Eat Fit approved restaurant, Magnolia Cafe had eleven adults complete the series.

TeenChefs in Franklin parish completed a series of three training sessions to be named "Chef Instructor(s)" for upcoming KidChef Culinary & Nutrition Day Camps.

Two KidChef camps were offered in June for youth ages 9-12 years old. The camps were held at the Franklin Parish Library Learning Center in Winnsboro, (sponsored by Friends of Crowville), and the Baskin Community Center in Baskin, (sponsored by the Baskin Community Group). We would like to thank our sponsors for investing in youth activities in the parish!