The continuing resolution passed by Congress September 20, 2021 to fund the federal government included $10 billion to fund the Wildfire and Hurricane Indemnity Program Plus, better known as WHIP+. This funding is important for Louisiana’s farmers and ranchers affected by the 2020 hurricanes Laura, Delta and Zeta, as well as the 2021 ice storm.
Read MoreThe Northeast Louisiana Beef and Forage Field Day was held September 16 at the Goldmine Plantation in Mangham, La. Field Day visitors heard from LSU AgCenter livestock specialists and a local veterinarian on best practices for cattle operations as we move into fall and winter. Here are three key takeaways from the event.
Read MoreAgriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has directed the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to aid recovery efforts for farmers, ranchers and residents affected by Hurricane Ida. USDA staff in offices across the country are ready to respond with a variety of program flexibilities and other assistance to producers and communities in need.
Read MoreLSU AgCenter veterinarian Dr. Christine Navarre is concerned for livestock following mosquito outbreaks in the wake of Hurricane Ida. Hurricane Laura caused a similar issue last year, which resulted in death for some cattle in southwest Louisiana. Navarre said livestock owners should take precautions to protect their animals.
She suggested spraying the premises or animals with an insecticide approved by the Environmental Protection Agency. Animals should only be sprayed with products labeled for use with that particular animal species. She warned owners not to use a premise spray directly on animals unless the label specifies that use.
Read MoreMark your calendar! October 2, 2021 is when Louisiana Farm Bureau, Louisiana Cattlemen’s Association, LSU AgCenter Extension Agents, along with St. Helena, Tangipahoa and Lafourche Parish Farm Bureaus and Lafourche Cattlemen’s Association will distribute donated fencing supplies to ranchers in need.
Read MoreThis week, the House Agriculture Committee passed its portion of the $3.5 trillion reconciliation package, including more than $94 billion in new spending related to agriculture.
For Louisiana, there is a glaring hole in that spending plan as it is lacking supplemental disaster assistance for farmers and ranchers after Hurricane Ida ravaged the state last month.
Read More"We recently acquired an existing processing facility in Eunice Louisiana, and it's currently the largest one in the state," says Chip Perrin, co-owner of Coastal Plains Meat Processing Company.
On September 13, the company announced their acquisition of a 19,000 square foot facility at 1044 Louisiana Highway 91 from Eunice Superette and Slaughterhouse.
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