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

Richland Parish row crops have faced much adversity from weather conditions during the 2026 growing season. Events have included late frost, drought, and large amounts of scattered rainfall. Despite these conditions, crops in the parish have held their own.

The Richland Parish AgCenter has collaborated with producers in the parish for three “on farm trials.” These trials include On Farm Corn Demo Plot which consists of 8 varieties to be tested. On Farm Soybean Demo Plot with 9 total varieties, as well as On Farm Rice Verification Trial which is a double-edged sword testing to see if LSU AgCenter recommendations are effective and practical in growing rice, as well as giving area agents the opportunity to learn from LSU Rice Specialist.

Upcoming events from the LSU AgCenter will include a Livestock Meeting and Rice Delphacid Plots. Last year rice in Northeast Louisiana was impacted by the Rice Delphacid insect.

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4-H and Family Development – Terrence Robinson

New Agent

Terrence’s 4-H journey began 16 years ago as a member, where he developed leadership skills, built lasting relationships, and discovered a passion for serving others. The experiences and opportunities he gained through 4-H played a significant role in shaping who he is today.

Now, he is excited to come full circle and give back to the program that had such a profound impact on his life. As Richland Parish’s newest 4-H Agent, Terrence looks forward to empowering young people, supporting volunteers, and creating meaningful experiences that help youth grow into confident leaders.

4-H University

Richland Parish had eight youth attend 4-H University on the LSU campus in Baton Rouge, where they participated in Clover College, attended educational sessions, and competed in various contests. Youth represented Richland Parish in ATV Safety, Art, Robotics, and STEM Illustrated Talk competitions. Their hard work and dedication resulted in several outstanding achievements, including multiple Blue Ribbon awards. The Richland Parish Robotics Team earned 3rd Place, while participants also placed 7th Place in both STEM Illustrated Talk and ATV Safety. We are proud of all our youth for their accomplishments and for representing Richland Parish 4-H at the state level.

Nutrition and Community Health (NCH) – Brittney Newsome

Moms on a Mission Promotes Health and Wellness for Families

Delta Head Start's annual Moms on a Mission event was held in celebration of Mother's Day, recognizing mothers while providing valuable resources to support the health and well-being of both youth and adults. The event focused on empowering families with tools and information to make healthy lifestyle choices. At the Nutrition and Health Station, parents and youth received nutritious recipes, reusable water bottles to encourage hydration during the summer months, herbs and spices to enhance flavor while reducing sodium intake, and a variety of educational resources promoting healthy living. Participants also enjoyed a food demonstration featuring Ambrosia Fruit Salad, where they learned how to prepare a simple, nutritious recipe that incorporates fruit and supports healthy eating habits.

Connecting Food Access with Nutrition Education

Through a collaborative partnership with Cool Kids, LLC and the No Kid Hungry Summer Food Service Program, nutrition education, healthy recipes, food demonstrations, and educational resources were provided to youth and families throughout Richland Parish. To support food access and food safety, insulated grocery totes were purchased and distributed to program participants. These reusable totes help families safely transport and store perishable foods received during weekly food distributions while also serving as practical tools for grocery shopping. A unique feature of each tote is an attached erasable marker and a food group checklist printed on the back. This interactive design encourages youth and families to select food from all five food groups and make healthier choices when shopping and meal planning. By combining food access with nutrition education, this initiative promotes food safety, healthy eating habits, and positive lifestyle behaviors among participating youth and families. During nutrition education session, youth learned about Go, Slow, and Whoa Foods, helping them identify foods to eat more often, sometimes, or only occasionally. Through interactive activities, participants learned how to make healthier food choices and build balanced meals to support overall health and wellness.