Trust Protocol Achieves Sixth Year of Record Growth in Enrolled Acres and Growers, Despite Challenging Growing Conditions

The U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol today announced its sixth consecutive year of growth, marking an expansion in both planted acres and enrolled growers. The program now represents 2.58 million planted acres, an 18% increase from the previous year, planted by 1,512 participating growers – a 14% rise compared to 2024. This growth underscores the program’s increasing value to U.S. cotton farmers, particularly in today’s challenging environment with fluctuating input costs, changing weather, and evolving market conditions.   

Read More
CottonAllie Shipley
Growing More Than Cane: The Sotile Family’s Fight to Keep Farming Alive

In the sugarcane fields where the fertile soil meets the steel skyline of industry, Frankie and Mallory Sotile are holding on to a crop and a way of life.

The Sotiles are among the three finalists for the 2025 Louisiana Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Achievement Award, a recognition that honors not just production, but leadership, innovation and dedication to community. As fourth-generation farmers, they represent both deep roots and fresh vision.

Read More
LSU AgCenter Explains Feral Pig Problem, How They're Working to Control Population

Across Louisiana, the feral pig population continues to grow. They can be found in all 64 parishes, and the total number of feral pigs is around 900,000 in the state.

"When I first started this, I thought Texas had a pig problem, not Louisiana. However, when you look at the population estimates for the states and compare it by the land area, we have about the same density of feral pigs as Texas," LSU AgCenter's Interim Southeast Regional Director Glen Gentry said.

Read More
Keeping It Sweet During National Candy Month

June is National Candy Month, a celebration of all things sweet. This month—and every month—we take great pride in the hard work and dedication of America’s sugarbeet and sugarcane farmers and workers. Thanks to them, both candy manufacturers and consumers benefit from high-quality, made-in-America sugar. Sugar is an essential ingredient in not only your favorite treats, but also countless everyday foods vital to a balanced and healthy diet.

Read More
Farm Bureau President in UK to Urge Trade Progress

In meetings with the British government American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall emphasized the importance of finalizing a new trade deal to expand access to markets in the United Kingdom. Duvall is in Great Britain this week to meet with policymakers and to observe British farming practices, among other items of business.

In May, the U.S. and U.K. announced a new trade deal. Farm Bureau urges leaders in both countries to finalize the deal, which expands American ethanol exports and other agricultural products.

Read More
Cotton and Soybean: Spoon Feed Nutrients to Maximize Yield

Crop nutrients are typically applied at planting. However, in-season foliar applications have demonstrated yield increases in both cotton and soybeans throughout the southern U.S. in research conducted by AgroLiquid.

On-farm trial work is ongoing in parts of the Midsouth, Southeast, and in Texas. This work is through a partnership between AgroLiquid and Southern Ag Services, headquartered in Starkville, Miss., along with cooperating farmers across the region.

Read More
Mike Strain Breaks Down The AG View of The Session

AG Commissioner Dr. Mike Strain joins the show for a wide-ranging conversation covering agriculture, veterinary medicine, legislation, and Louisiana’s seafood and livestock industries. He shared personal stories from his time at LSU’s vet school and emphasized the importance of public health and food safety in veterinary practice. The discussion highlighted the complexity of animal care, from cataract surgery on alligators to cancer treatment for exotic animals.

Read More
USDA Reminds Louisiana Producers to File Crop Acreage Reports

After spring planting is complete, agricultural producers in Louisiana should make an appointment with their local Farm Service Agency (FSA) county office to complete crop acreage reports before the applicable deadline.

“In order to receive many USDA program benefits, producers should file an accurate crop acreage report by the applicable deadline,” said SED Craig McCain, Executive Director in Louisiana. “Call your local FSA office to make an appointment after planting is complete to report your acreage and take care of any other FSA-related business.”

Read More
New U-Pick Blackberry Farm Opens in Frierson

Nestled in the heart of berry country, ODK Farms is bursting with flavor — and it's not just the fruit.

Owned by Chip Killian, the farm is home to 575 flourishing blackberry plants, each one hand-planted with care just three years ago.

Visitors to ODK Farms don’t just pick berries — they enjoy a full sensory experience.

Read More