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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 and Community Health agents and educators are improving the overall health of residents by helping to reduce chronic diseases which are related to poor nutrition and sedentary lifestyles and improving the health outcomes in which Louisiana has traditionally ranked so low. This community-based work helps individuals and families adopt the nutrition and physical activity principles we have long been teaching.
Washington Parish 4-H programming has continued to grow over the last five years. 4-H in Washington Parish continues to offer traditional programming for members, as well as workshops and numerous opportunities for members to collaborate with each other to shape parish programming. Washington Parish members continue to make their mark on Louisiana 4-H with the participation on state leadership boards, participation in state leadership activities and their willingness to step outside of their comfort zone when at state and regional 4-H events.
Washington Parish is first in Louisiana for watermelon acreage and in the top five for commercial vegetable, blueberry, and nursery crop acreage. These industries contribute to the economy and culture of the parish. Gardening and lawn care bring pleasure to many people and, in many cases, provide a source of nutritious fruits and vegetables. Gardeners and homeowners need reliable information upon which to base decisions about plant selection and maintenance (pest management, fertilization, etc.), to avoid unnecessary expenses and wasteful fertilizer and pesticide applications. Weekly newspaper articles are an efficient way to reach many people with science-based gardening and lawn care information. News articles are posted online and sent weekly to two local papers with distributions totaling approximately 5500 people.
4-H Clubs, school enrichment, field days, publications, newsletters, class series, website, social media and workshops.
120 volunteers from 4-H Club Leaders, 4-H Livestock, 4-H Junior Leadership, Master Gardeners and Nutrition and Community Health.
LSU AgCenter agents provide research-based information on plant, aquaculture, wildlife and animal enterprises to Washington Parish residents. The total dollar amount from these commodities were: Animal enterprises, $29,870,725; aquaculture and wildlife, $3,933,785; plant enterprises, $36,690,815.
Land area — 676 square miles; Population —45,133; Population under 18 years old — 26.7%; Population 65 years old and over — 14.3%; Median household income — $24,264; Persons below poverty — 24.7%
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.
Washington Parish Profile January 2026pdf / 0.32MB