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 (ANR) - Nate Jennings

The EPA requires that every three years for individuals with Private Applicator Cards be renewed. LSU AgCenter works cooperating with LDAF in hosting in person or virtual recertification meetings to renew these cards. Richland Parish had a total of 40 Applicator Cards renewed. During the meeting there was also information regarding new invasive pests in our local row crops as well as details on EPAs new mitigations on newly labeled pesticides. If any additional information is needed on the topics reach out to the LSU AgCenter.

The Northeast Louisiana Rice Growers Association revamped the organization. The first Rice Forum in years was held in February at the Rayville Civic Center. The Forum had speakers from the LSU AgCenter, USA Rice, as well as Meryl Kennedy.

The 2026 growing season is officially underway as well. We have already experienced setbacks with a late frost that forced many farmers into a replant situation with corn planting. With input prices increasing, and now with a lack of available seed due to the frost, many farmers have transitioned over to planting soybeans instead.

With cooperation of local producers, corn demonstration plots have already been planted in the parish. These plots are requested each year to gain information on which varieties work best in our area. Each plot in the state is used in the Corn Hybrid Guide published by the LSU AgCenter.

4-H and Family Development

Richland Parish Shooting Sports - Richland Parish Shooting Sports

Approximately 18 youth participants competed in the Regional Shooting Sports competition held in Ouachita Parish, representing their parish across shotgun, rifle, pistol and archery disciplines. These students demonstrated a strong commitment to skill development, safety, and sportsmanship, dedicating significant time and effort to practice and preparation in order to compete at both the regional and state levels. Their hard work paid off, as at least half of the participants placed in their respective events and earned the opportunity to advance to the State Shooting Sports competition. This program not only promotes marksmanship skills, but also reinforces responsibility, discipline, and goal setting among youth participants.

Northeast Region Louisiana Food Challenge Competition - Two Richland Parish 4‑H teams competed in the 2026 Northeast/Northwest Louisiana Food Challenge Competition in Ruston, demonstrating teamwork, dedication, and strong culinary skills. Youth worked collaboratively under time constraints while applying food safety and problem‑solving skills. Their efforts were recognized when the Division II team earned the Golden Spatula Award for outstanding teamwork during food preparation.

Nutrition and Community Health (NCH) – Brittney Newsome

Eat Smart, Get Active, Live Well - A nutrition workshop was held at Greater New Beginning Missionary Baptist Church, engaging 37 participants on healthy eating and physical activity. Participants learned practical ways to manage calorie intake by planning ahead, tracking food choices, limiting added sugars and solid fats, reducing portion sizes preparing more meals at home, and making healthier choices when eating out. The workshop also emphasized increasing physical activity through moderate and vigorous movement, avoiding inactivity, and gradually building activity levels. Overall, the session reinforced simple, achievable steps participants can take to improve daily health habits and support long‑term well‑being and concluded with a food demonstration tasting to help with in home meal preparation.

Germ Science Experiment, Richland Parish Library, Rayville STEM FEST - A germ science experiment was conducted for 268 fourth‑grade students in Richland Parish to help build understanding of what germs are and how they spread. During the lesson, students learned that germs, including bacteria and viruses—are microscopic organisms that can cause illness and are easily transferred through touch. To demonstrate this concept, a “germ buddy” activity using Glitter Bug lotion was used. The lotion, visible under UV light, allowed students to see how germs remain on hands and surfaces if proper handwashing techniques are not followed, reinforcing the importance of thorough handwashing with soap and water. Students also participated in a hands‑on pepper and soap experiment, where ground pepper represented germs floating on water. When soap was added, the pepper quickly moved away, visually showing how soap breaks up oils and repels germs, making it easier for water to wash them away. These interactive experiments helped students connect science concepts to everyday hygiene practices and better understand how handwashing helps prevent the spread of illness.