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La. Farmers plant record-low cotton acreage
La. Farmers plant record-low cotton acreage Source: LSU AgCenter
WINNSBORO, La. – Louisiana has the lowest cotton acreage in recorded history, with the state’s farmers planting an estimated 125,000 acres this year, according to LSU AgCenter cotton specialist and entomologist David Kerns.
A decade ago the state’s farmers were planting as much as 800,000 acres of cotton.
“It boils down to economics and what the farmers... read more
U.S. Protein Exports Weaker Year-to-Date in 2013
Department of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness LSU AgCenter
After setting a record in 2011, U.S. beef exports have not fared as well in 2012 and so far in 2013. Declining domestic production results in higher prices both in the U.S. and overseas which allows the ability of U.S. competitors to provide less expensive alternatives. Through the first four months of 2013, beef exports are 3.8% lower than the same period last year. Even with the lower level of beef exports, approximately... read more
Horse Expert Lists Benefits of Horse Ownership
Horse Expert Lists Benefits of Horse Ownership Source: Dr. Clint Depew, LSU AgCenter
Horse ownership can be very exciting and rewarding. The primary reasons for horse ownership are companionship, recreation and relaxation, says LSU AgCenter animal science professor Dr. Clint Depew.
"Many young people have developed their confidence and self-esteem through horse ownership," the LSU AgCenter equine expert says, noting that horse projects tend to be a family activity, which... read more
Beef prices rise as summer grilling season starts
Beef prices rise as summer grilling season starts Writer: Tobie Blanchard at 225-578-5649 or tblanchard@agcenter.lsu.edu.
BATON ROUGE, La. – Wholesale beef prices are at historically high levels. This may affect summer cookouts as consumers can expect to see higher prices at the grocery store. LSU AgCenter livestock economist Ross Pruitt said drought in the Midwest in 2012 led to a shortage of hay and higher corn prices. This in turn is affecting... read more
LSU AgCenter Nutrition Expert Tells What Makes Figs So Special
LSU AgCenter Nutrition Expert Tells What Makes Figs So Special
Figs are nutrient-dense, versatile and easy to pack and transport, says LSU AgCenter nutrition expert Dr. Heli Roy.
Figs were brought to America in the early 1500s. Several types were cultivated and used for preserves or fig paste. California ranks number two in the world for fig production.
"Figs can serve as a delicious snack in the car or at the office, being a good source of fiber,"... read more
Forage Availability and Production in 2013
Forage Availability and Production in 2013 Source: Ross Pruitt, Department of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness LSU AgCenter
The release of on farm hay stocks as of May 1st provided a less than rosy picture on the state of forage availability in the U.S. On farm hay stocks were estimated at 14.2 million tons, a decline of 33.8% from a year ago. This level... read more
Rice farmers join reception for state legislators
Rice farmers join reception for state legislators Writer: Bruce Schultz at (337) 788-8821 or bschultz@agcenter.lsu.edu Rice farmers join reception for state legislators Writer: Bruce Schultz at (337) 788-8821 or bschultz@agcenter.lsu.edu Master Gardener program continues to grow As the Temperature Rises, So Do Water Requirements Source: University of Arkansas, Dr. Jeremy Powell, DVM Water is the most important nutrient for general animal wellbeing. If water intake drops below required levels, then decreased feed conversion, stressed cattle and dehydration will result. Keep in mind that, as the approaching summer temperatures continue to rise, your cattle’s daily water intake will also continue to rise.... read more Parasite resistance concerns cattle industry experts Writer: Rick Bogren@225-578-5839 /rbogren@agcenter.lsu.edu Herbicide-Resistant Weeds Another Limitation to Crop Production James L. Griffin, Lee F. Mason LSU Alumni Association Professor,School of Plant, Environmental & Soil Sciences, LSU AgCenter, Baton Rouge, La. Entomologists for many years have dealt with insect... read more Did You Know: Riot Act –There really was a Riot Act! And if you’ve ever had one read to you, you won’t soon forget it. As an expression, reading someone the riot act, means you’re probably this side of a hissy fit. But in its original context, a riot act was more than a loud scolding. It was literally law. The riot act (as we refer to it today) was instigated by King George I of England in 1716. At the time, in order to keep the peace, George made it illegal for 12 or more people to congregate at... read more New research facility to benefit ‘gator’ farmers Writer: Johnny Morgan at 225-578-8484 or jmorgan@agcenter.lsu.edu Rose of Sharon adds to summer landscapes; Aphrodite named Louisiana Super Plant Editor: Rick Bogren at 225-578-5839 or rbogren@agcenter.lsu.edu WRDA Passage Essential for Economic Growth Source: www.fb.org Statement by Bob Stallman, President, American Farm Bureau Federation Regarding Senate Approval of WRDA USDA Predicts Record Corn Crop Despite Early Challenges Source: www.fb.org Statement by Bob Stallman, President, American Farm Bureau Federation, Regarding USDA’s Intent to Prepare Environmental Impact Statements for Biotech Crops Under Review for Deregulation Source: www.fb.org Statement from Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on Forecast for U.S. Agricultural Exports Statement by Bob Stallman, President, American Farm Bureau Federation Regarding Senate Approval of WRDA AFBF Urges Congress to Keep Current Tax Tools Source: www.fb.org Poultry producers hear about litter management plans Chain Saw Safety Source: www.uaex.edu Crop production field day set for June 19 in St. Joseph Natural resources symposium set for Aug. 1-2 in Baton Rouge Banana Pudding Cake Yellow Cake Mix Instant Banana Pudding Prepare and bake cake as directed. While cake is still hot, stick holes in it. When cake has cooled, mix banana pudding and pour in liquid form onto cake. Be sure to push pudding into cake. Refrigerate until pudding is set. Cover with cool whip. Optional—crumble vanilla wafers on top. Spiritual Corner: AFBF Lays Out Tax Reform Wish List Source: www.fb.org WASHINGTON, D.C., April 9, 2013 – Individual tax code reform is essential for farmers and ranchers, the American Farm Bureau Federation said today in a statement submitted to the House Small Business Committee. According to AFBF, tax reform must be simple, transparent, revenue-neutral and fair to farmers and ranchers. Strain Urges Horse Owners to Prepare for Mosquito Borne Diseases Source: Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry New Legislation Needed to Maintain Movement of Grains New Electronic Heat Detection for Beef Cattle, Source: G.T. Gentry Jr., D. Hylan, J.A. Carter and R.A. Godke Idlewild Experiment Station and Department of Animal Science LSU AgCenter Rabies in Horses Source: Mark Russell, Assistant Professor, University of Arkansas Be careful when considering insecticide use Editor: Rick Bogren at 225-578-5839 or rbogren@agcenter.lsu.edu Ag economy grows to record high of $11.4 billion in 2012 Making Hay in the Springtime Ed Twidwell, LSU AgCenter Did you know? EPA officials learn about Louisiana agriculture Writer: Bruce Schultz at (337) 788-8821 or bschultz@agcenter.lsu.edu Statement by Bob Stallman, President, American Farm Bureau Federation, Regarding USDA/EPA Honey Bee Report Court Refuses to Dismiss Poultry Farmer’s Suit Against EPA Container, newly planted plants need special watering care Editor: Rick Bogren at 225-578-5839 or rbogren@agcenter.lsu.edu By Dan Gill, LSU AgCenter Horticulturist Did You Know? Avian Influenza Source: LSU AgCenter Expressions: Eating Crow An expression that connotes humility forced in the face of wrongdoing, eating crow is a tad bit different from eating umble pie. While both suggest humility, eating crow is slightly different in that it suggest an aire of humiliation as part of the punishment. USDA and EPA Release New Report on Honey Bee Health Spiritual Corner By: Tommy Bennett Thanks to Our Mothers! Simply Delicious Strawberry Cake Hay Quality Impacted by Five Factors The Founding Fathers As July 4, 2014 approaches, Americans from the Atlantic to the Pacific will celebrate the anniversary of our nation’s independence, our 238 years of unbroken self-rule. Some will celebrate with fireworks; others, with burgers and barbecue. As for myself, I picked up a copy of Founding Brothers (2000), Joseph Ellis’ Pulitzer Prize-winning history of the revolutionary generation. To say I was both moved and astonished by this book would be an understatement. While politicians and TV commentators mouth platitudes about the Revolution and our Constitution, Mr. Ellis has succeeded in transcending the clichés and recovering... read more Just Rambling:
BATON ROUGE, La. – Rice farmers joined an LSU AgCenter reception for legislators and their staffs on May 28. The event, held at the Pentagon Barracks near the Capitol, featured a new line of Louisiana-grown rice products by Louisiana Rice Mill.
Other commodity groups featuring their products at the reception included eggs, beef, sweet potatoes, dairy, poultry and sugar.Rice farmers join reception for state legislators
BATON ROUGE, La. – Rice farmers joined an LSU AgCenter reception for legislators and their staffs on May 28. The event, held at the Pentagon Barracks near the Capitol, featured a new line of Louisiana-grown rice products by Louisiana Rice Mill.
Other commodity groups featuring their products at the reception included eggs, beef, sweet potatoes, dairy, poultry and sugar.Master Gardener program continues to grow
Writer: Johnny Morgan at 225-578-8484 or jmorgan@agcenter.lsu.edu
BATON ROUGE, La. – For almost 20 years a group of volunteers has made life easier for those with gardening questions and others in need of an extra set of hands to help with a big seminar.
Beginning in East Baton Rouge Parish in 1994 as a pilot program, Louisiana Master Gardeners are now represented... read moreAs the Temperature Rises, So Do Water Requirements
Parasite resistance concerns cattle industry experts
BATON ROUGE, La. – Cattle industry experts are becoming increasingly concerned about cattle parasites’ resistance to dewormers – a condition known as anthelmintic resistance.
Anthelmintic resistance has been identified worldwide in all commercially available products to control cattle parasites, said LSU AgCenter veterinarian Christine Navarre.
“The extent... read moreHerbicide-Resistant Weeds Another Limitation to Crop Production
Did You Know?
New research facility to benefit ‘gator’ farmers
BATON ROUGE, La. – Small studies on alligator nutrition have been ongoing at the LSU AgCenter Aquaculture Research Station, but with the addition of new facilities, those projects can be expanded, according to LSU AgCenter assistant vice chancellor Phil Elzer.
A newly constructed building to house larger animals at the station will allow for increased... read moreRose of Sharon adds to summer landscapes; Aphrodite named Louisiana Super Plant
By Allen Owings, LSU AgCenter horticulturist
HAMMOND, La. – Althea goes by the scientific name of Hibiscus syriacus. When they look at althea, most gardeners are reminded of the hibiscus family, to which this popular, Southern heritage plant belongs. These plants are also known as rose of Sharon.
Altheas are native to Asia and were... read moreWRDA Passage Essential for Economic Growth
WASHINGTON, D.C., May 7, 2013 – Passage of the Water Resources Development Act of 2013 (S. 601), is essential to America’s economic growth, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation.
In a joint letter with 20 other agricultural groups, AFBF told members of the Senate that passage of WRDA would authorize new projects for flood protection, port improvements and upgrades to the nation’s aging locks and dams infrastructure. It would also... read more Statement by Bob Stallman, President, American Farm Bureau Federation Regar
WASHINGTON, D.C., May 16, 2013 – “Senate passage of S. 601, the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), takes us one step closer to water transport upgrades needed to boost the nation’s economic growth and is welcome news for America’s farmers, ranchers and agribusiness owners.
“More than 60 percent of grain grown by our farmers for export is transported via inland waterways and 95 percent of... read more USDA Predicts Record Corn Crop Despite Early Challenges Source: www.fb.or
WASHINGTON, D.C., May 10, 2013 – The May World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report released today by the Agriculture Department shows that a record corn crop is still reachable despite a slow start to planting season, according to American Farm Bureau Federation analysts.
The report forecasts a corn yield of 158 bushels per acre, implying a record crop of 14.14 billion bushels, up 3.36 billion bushels from 2012 when much of the nation... read moreStatement by Bob Stallman, President, American Farm Bureau Federation, Regarding
WASHINGTON, D.C., May 13, 2013 – “The Agriculture Department’s announcement that it will require full environmental impact statements for new corn, soybean and cotton crops developed through biotechnology to be herbicide-resistant is troubling.
“Most disturbing is that USDA has not provided scientific... read moreStatement from Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on Forecast for U.S. Agricultur
Source: www.usda.gov
WASHINGTON, May 30, 2013 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture released its fourth Outlook for U.S. Agriculture Trade in fiscal year 2013 today. USDA projects $139.5 billion in agricultural exports in FY 2013, which if realized would be a new record. Since 2009, U.S. agricultural exports have climbed from $96.3 billion in 2009 to the most-recent forecast of $139.5 billion.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack made the following... read moreStatement by Bob Stallman, President, American Farm Bureau Federation Regarding
WASHINGTON, D.C., May 16, 2013 – “Senate passage of S. 601, the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), takes us one step closer to water transport upgrades needed to boost the nation’s economic growth and is welcome news for America’s farmers, ranchers and agribusiness owners.
“More than 60 percent of grain grown by our farmers for export is transported via inland waterways and 95 percent of agricultural... read moreAFBF Urges Congress to Keep Current Tax Tools
WASHINGTON, D.C., May 15, 2013 – Farmers and ranchers need a tax code to manage the risks associated with agriculture while complying with tax liabilities, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation. In a statement filed today with the House Ways and Means Committee for a hearing on small business taxation, AFBF urged congressional members to maintain cash accounting tools and higher small business expensing limits in any tax code rewrite.
Cash accounting tools, like... read morePoultry producers hear about litter management plans
Writer: Bruce Schultz at 337-788-8821, 337-250-3876 (cell), or bschultz@agcenter.lsu.edu
Poultry producers are getting help to face the expected challenge of inspections by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
The LSU AgCenter, along with the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, provided information to producers at meetings in Many and... read moreChain saw safety
A skilled woodsman quickly reduces a large tree to manageable
pieces. Inexperienced chain saw operators can gain some of these skills with training and using safe, efficient cutting practices. Even seasoned woodcutters should revise techniques that are hazardous. One analysis of chain saw accidents revealed that 70 percent of those injured had more than one year’s experience. To avoid injuries, possibly even death, practice safe woodcutting while clearing, thinning, cutting firewood or cleaning up trees... read moreCrop production field day set for June 19 in St. Joseph
Writer: Bruce Schultz at 337-788-8821, 337-250-3876 (cell), or bschultz@agcenter.lsu.edu
ST. JOSEPH, La. – Research at the LSU AgCenter Northeast Research Station on corn, cotton and soybeans will be featured at the pest management and crop production field day on June 19.
The event starts with registration at 8:30 a.m. and a field tour at 9 a.m. A lunch will be provided.
Topics will include:
– Influence of corn hybrids on optimal plant population and yield.Natural resources symposium set for Aug. 1-2 in Baton Rouge
Writer: Rick Bogren at 225-578-5839 or rbogren@agcenter.lsu.edu
BATON ROUGE, La. – The LSU AgCenter School of Renewable Natural Resources will host the fourth Louisiana Natural Resources Symposium on Aug. 1-2, 2013, at the Lod Cook Conference Center on the LSU Campus.
The theme of 2013 symposium will be impacts of human and natural disasters on forested and wetland ecosystems and wildlife, according to Todd Shupe of the AgCenter’s Louisiana Forest products Development Center.... read more Banana Pudding cake
Cool Whip Vanilla WafersSpiritual Corner
No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
1 Corinthians 10:13AFBF Lays Out Tax Reform Wish List
“Any tax reform proposal considered by Congress must be comprehensive and include individual tax reform,” AFBF stated. “More than 96 percent of farms and 75 percent... read moreStrain Urges Horse Owners to Prepare for
As summertime approaches and mosquitoes become more prevalent, the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) is urging horse owners to vaccinate their animals for both Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and the West Nile Virus (WNV).
Commissioner Mike Strain, D.V.M.,... read more New Legislation Needed to Maintain Movement of Grains
WASHINGTON, D.C., April 26, 2013 – New legislation introduced in the House, H.R. 1152, The Mississippi River Navigation Sustainment Act, would maintain the critical movement of goods during periods of extreme weather, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation.
“The Mississippi River is a critical national transportation artery on which hundreds of millions of tons of essential commodities are shipped, such as corn, grain, oilseeds and agricultural inputs,” AFBF President Bob... read moreNew Electronic Heat Detection for Beef Cattle
Findings # The new HeatWatch system has been under evaluation and has been found to offer a high degree of accuracy in determining estrus in beef cattle. # Less expensive heat detection aids are available, including heat patches and chin-ball markers, but require extra effort to be effective. # This new electronic technology for cattle should not be overlooked by the beef producer.
Introduction... read moreRabies in Horses
So far this year in Arkansas (as of March 1), there have been 23 reported cases of rabies in animals. Twenty-one of these cases have been in skunks, while one has been in a cow and one reported case in a dog. Though it is unlikely your horse will become stricken with rabies during its lifetime, as owners we should always be cognizant of the signs of not only our horses having rabies but also other animals that could come in contact with the horses. Further, rabies is especially dangerous, given the fact... read moreBe careful when considering insecticide use
By Dan Gill, LSU AgCenter Horticulturist
As the weather warms up, insect problems increase. Many gardeners still feel they should immediately get an insecticide and begin spraying when they see insects or some apparent insect damage in their gardens or landscapes. But just because you see an insect is not reason enough to spray.
The insect you see may not be harmful or may not cause enough damage to warrant control. It may even be a beneficial insect that eats other... read moreAg economy grows to record high of $11.4 billion in 2012
Writer: Linda Foster Benedict at (225) 578-2937 or lbenedict@agcenter.lsu.edu
BATON ROUGE, La. – The agricultural economy in Louisiana grew to a record high value of $11.4 billion in 2012, an increase of 6.5 percent over the 2011 amount of $10.7 billion, according to the latest figures released by the LSU AgCenter.
The main reason for the unprecedented growth were high prices for corn and soybeans combined with record yields, according to John Westra, AgCenter economist. He compiles Louisiana agriculture statistics... read moreMaking Hay in the Springtime
From late March to early May is a frustrating time to try and make hay in Louisiana. Frequent rains and poor hay drying weather are common at that time. In spite of the difficulties associated with springtime haymaking, there is a strong reason to attempt it. The best quality forage for making hay is available at that time on most Louisiana farms and ranches. Ryegrass, which most cattlemen and dairymen grow, and small grain crops are most suitable for harvesting during this time. Also, many clovers and alfalfa reach the proper cutting stage... read moreDid You Know?
Poison ivy is a member of the tropical Cashew family, from which we get cashew and pistachio nuts.EPA officials learn about Louisiana agriculture
CROWLEY, La. – Officials from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency met for a two-day (April 30-May 1) whirlwind tour of Louisiana agriculture with the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry and the LSU AgCenter to give the EPA an understanding of the state’s unique challenges.
The visitors were Sarah Bittleman, the new EPA agricultural counselor; Ron Curry, EPA regional administrator for Region 6 that includes Louisiana; and David Gray, EPA external... read moreStatement by Bob Stallman, President, American Farm Bureau Federation, Regarding
WASHINGTON, D.C., May 2, 2013 – “The Agriculture Department/Environmental Protection Agency report issued today concludes what farmers and scientists have known for some time – that there isn’t just one cause to the decline in honey bee numbers. It’s a multitude of factors, which makes it even more important that we continue work on a solution through collaborative efforts among farmers, beekeepers, researchers, the federal government and the public.
“The... read moreCourt Refuses to Dismiss Poultry Farmer’s Suit Against EPA
WASHINGTON, D.C., April 23, 2013 – Poultry and livestock farmers scored a win Monday when a federal court rejected efforts by the Environmental Protection Agency to dismiss a case brought by West Virginia poultry farmer Lois Alt, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation. Alt had challenged an EPA order demanding that she obtain a Clean Water Act discharge permit for ordinary stormwater runoff from her farmyard. Despite EPA’s recent withdrawal of the Alt order, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia... read moreContainer, newly planted plants need special watering care
Lots of new planting gets done every spring. Proper watering can make the difference between life and death to newly planted lawns, trees, shrubs and ground covers as well as bedding and vegetable transplants.
Because their roots have not had time to grow out into the surrounding soil, these plants do not yet have well-established root systems. With their roots... read moreDid You Know?
A ten-gallon hat only holds about three-quarters of a gallon of liquid. It got its name from the Spanish word galo'n, which means “braid”. Some Mexican cowboys, or vaqueros, wore as many as ten braised bands on their sombreros. Avian Influenza
What is avian influenza (bird flu)? Avian influenza is a contagious disease caused by the type A influenza virus. In poultry, there are two forms of the disease. There is a “low pathogenic” (low virulence) form that causes mild symptoms and may even be undetected, and there is a “high pathogenic” (high virulence) form that spreads rapidly and kills many birds. What are the hosts for avian influenza? All avian species may be susceptible to avian influenza, but waterfowl are the reservoir for the influenza A virus. Waterfowl can carry the virus without... read moreEating Crow
With the ending of the War of 1812, story has it an American soldier crossed British lines while hunting for game. Finding nothing better, the American shot a crow, and (when discovered by the British officer) was forced to eat it as punishment for trespassing.
Halfway through this disgusting act, story has it the British... read moreUSDA and EPA Release New Report on Honey Bee Health
WASHINGTON, May 2, 2013-The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today released a comprehensive scientific report on honey bee health. The report states that there are multiple factors playing a role in honey bee colony declines, including parasites and disease, genetics, poor nutrition and pesticide exposure.
"There is an important link between the health of American agriculture and the health of our honeybees for our country's long term agricultural productivity," said Agriculture... read moreThanks to Our Mothers
Being a mother is such a unique position in that it is one highly favored by God and yet so lowly. At first thought you might say society has changed the role of our mom’s as many today must work outside the home in order for families to “make ends meet.” The truth is, her role hasn’t changed in the least, and it is simply much more stressful. No matter how long she is at work, awaiting her will always be the sleepless nights, tears of joy, even tears of sadness, and all the much needed comfort that she alone can give. Much of the world looks at... read moreSimply Delicious Strawberry Cake
1 (18.25-ounce) box white cake mix
1 (3-ounce) box strawberry jello 1 (15-ounce) package frozen strawberries in syrup, thawed and pureed
4 large eggs 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1/4 cup water
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease 2 (9-inch) round cake pans. In a large bowl, combine cake mix and gelatin. Add pureed strawberries, eggs, oil, and water; beat at medium speed with an electric mixer until smooth. Pour into prepared pans, and bake for 20 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool... read moreHay Quality Impacted by Five Factors
Of all the feed stuffs livestock consume, hay is one of the most variable in terms of quality. Hay can look good and still be low quality, or look bad and be good quality. The best way to know for sure is to have it tested.
Factors affecting the quality of hay are as follows:
Stage of maturity - This refers to the growth stage of the plant at the time of harvest. Stage of maturity is by far the most important factor influencing quality. The younger the plant, the higher the quality.
2) Leafiness - This refers to the proportion of leaves versus stems present and is also related... read moreFounding Fathers
Just Rambling, July 2014
In last month’s Ag Trader USA, I wrote about poultry integrators, and their lack of appreciation for growers. I stated that I was not aware of any recent appreciation events held by any of the poultry integrators in Louisiana, but that if I was wrong, to please let me know, and I would acknowledge my mistake. Shortly after receiving the June issue of Ag Trader USA, Mr. James Wagley called to tell me that Pilgrim’s Pride in Natchitoches had held recently an appreciation dinner for all of their growers in Natchitoches. I commend Pilgrim’s Pride for this action, and I hope that Foster Farms and House of Raeford will follow... read more
