LSU AgCenter extension reports expanded outreach in Tangipahoa Parish; leadership transition announced

Representatives of the LSU AgCenter gave an annual report to the Tangipahoa Parish Council on July 28 outlining education, outreach and program activity in the parish over the last year.

Whitney, the parish extension representative, summarized achievements across agriculture, natural resources, youth development (4-H), horticulture and community partnerships. Highlights the extension listed included: - 4-H: 902 members across 48 clubs, 72 livestock and 83 shooting-sports participants; several members advanced to state-level roles and competitions. - Forestry/Natural Resources: 92 participants engaged at regional forestry events; 75 landowners trained in prescribed-burn workshops; 34 adults attended forestry field days covering sustainable logging practices. - Horticulture: Extension horticulture support by Dr. Mary Helen Ferguson included roughly 600 calls and 420 emails for commercial/homeowner assistance and grower updates. - Master Gardeners: 1,600 volunteer hours logged with an estimated value of $45,000 in Tangipahoa Parish; 12 new volunteers added.

Whitney said she is concluding her tenure as parish chair at the extension office following five years in the role and that Dr. Gary Hay, a regional extension specialist with experience in beef and forage management, will assume leadership responsibilities for the parish. Dr. Hay introduced himself and said he would continue extension outreach and provided his contact information to council members.

Council members thanked extension staff for programming and noted the value of the education and landowner training. The presentation included printed materials distributed to council members with program details and an infographic on the economic contribution of forestry and forest products in the region.

The council received the report; no formal action was required.