Washington Parish LSU AgCenter

06/01/2026

The LSU system has surpassed $600 million in research expenditures for the 2024–25 year, marking continued growth in innovation and impact across the state and beyond.

The LSU AgCenter is proud to be part of that progress. Through initiatives like the Mississippi River Invasive Species Consortium, we’re working with partners across the region to detect, manage and prevent invasive species that threaten agriculture, natural resources and communities.

By connecting research with real-world solutions, the AgCenter continues to support Louisiana producers, protect our environment and strengthen the state’s economy.

05/27/2026

The sunflower field is starting to bloom at the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens!

This bloom will last for a few weeks, making it a perfect time to plan a visit and enjoy the view. You can read more about the garden's photo policies here: https://tinyurl.com/yfn3vz5x

05/26/2026

New Tangi-Washington Grower Update!

Updates for horticultural crop growers.

05/20/2026

Today is National Bee Day! If you're interested in backyard beekeeping, this publication from the LSU AgCenter has the information you need to get started: https://tinyurl.com/mr28tt3j

05/19/2026

Hydrangeas are starting to bloom and bringing bright colors to shady areas of gardens. These plants like morning sun, afternoon shade and moist, well-draining soil.

Get tips on choosing, planting and caring for hydrangeas in Louisiana here:https://tinyurl.com/mr2rby3r

05/18/2026

The Sensory Services Lab in Baton Rouge will be holding a consumer study of turkey bacon on Wednesday, May 27. We are looking for a diverse demographic of consumers. Just answer a few questions below to see if you qualify.

Panelists will be asked to evaluate two samples of turkey bacon. It should take about 10 - 15 minutes to complete. Upon completion of the study, participants will receive a $25 Amazon gift card provided by the study sponsor.
https://lsu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2nUCSbjuJDhvf3E

05/18/2026

Because they’re native to Louisiana, mayhaw trees thrive in our climate. They're a great choice for homeowners looking to add both beauty and homegrown fruit to their landscape.
For best results, plant mayhaws in moist, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0–6.5, spacing trees about 20–30 feet apart to allow room for growth. Established trees benefit from annual fertilization using 5-10-10 at about one pound per inch of trunk diameter.
Many popular mayhaw cultivars were developed right here in Louisiana. A few to consider:
• Maxine – Late blooming with a classic tree shape and heavy yields of large red fruit (note: more thorns than some varieties)
• Royal Star – Early blooming with deep red to purple fruit, minimal thorns and an upright growth habit that makes mowing easier
• Spectacular – Early blooming with very large fruit; requires another early bloomer like Royal Star for pollination
• Hope 13 – Produces very large, dark red fruit and offers good resistance to fire blight

05/18/2026

Things we do in the landscape can affect the risk that termites pose.

We can take steps in the landscape to reduce the chances of termite infestations.

05/15/2026

Tangipahoa and Washington Parish Are Among Top-Ranking Parishes for Horticultural Crops

Both parishes rank near the top, within Louisiana, for vegetable and nursery crop production.

05/15/2026

Meet Aubrey L. Posey, a lifelong servant leader whose impact on Washington Parish spans generations.
Born on June 25, 1941, in Sicily Island, Louisiana, Aubrey was raised on a farm alongside his two sisters and brother by his parents, Ernestine Wactor Posey and William Posey. He accepted Christ at an early age at Pine Hill Baptist Church, where faith and community became the foundation of his life.
Aubrey attended Sicily Island High School, where he played football and baseball while studying vocational agriculture. Encouraged by his agriculture teacher, Mr. Sam E. Dale, Aubrey pursued higher education at LSU, working his way through college before joining the Air Force advanced ROTC program. His military service included active duty assignments in Okinawa, Guam, and the Philippines, along with several years in the active reserves.
After completing his military service in 1968, Aubrey and his high school sweetheart, Minnie Quay Shelton, made Franklinton their home. Aubrey joined the LSU Agricultural Center, where he spent the next 40 years educating youth through 4-H programs and supporting local dairy and beef producers. He also served for many years as Parish Chairman, leaving a lasting mark on agriculture in Washington Parish.
Throughout the years, Aubrey and Minnie have remained deeply involved in the community. Together they have served with the Washington Parish Free Fair, where Aubrey held leadership roles including Fair President during the challenging Katrina years. He also served as president of the girls’ softball association board and continues to serve on the Franklinton Dixie Baseball Board. Today, he is in his second year as District VI Director of Dixie Youth Baseball.
Aubrey’s dedication to service also includes leadership roles with the Washington Parish Farm Bureau Board, Council on Aging, and two terms as District 7 Council Member for Washington Parish Government. He currently serves as Agriculture Chairman for the Washington Parish Chamber.
Faith and family remain at the center of Aubrey’s life. He and Minnie are proud parents of five children, grandparents to nine grandchildren, and great-grandparents to one great-grandchild. As founding members of Hillcrest Baptist Church, Aubrey faithfully serves as a Deacon and Sunday School teacher, continuing his lifelong commitment to serving both God and his community.