The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry announced Friday that the state will receive a federal grant of just over $461,000 from the United States Department of Agriculture. The money will support nine specialty‑crop projects aimed at strengthening Louisiana’s agricultural diversity, expanding market reach and providing hands‑on learning opportunities for students.
How the funds are allocated
Approximately $424,557 is earmarked for the nine project initiatives, while $36,918 (about 8% of the total) will cover grant administration costs for the department. All projects must be completed by September 29, 2029, and lead investigators are required to submit annual progress reports that the department will compile for USDA’s final review.
Key projects
State branding campaign – $72,879
The largest single award will fund the creation of a Certified Louisiana Specialty Crop designation and a statewide consumer‑education effort. The department plans to develop branding, secure trademark protection, produce ten “Myth Busters” videos and distribute promotional materials through retailers, events and digital channels.
High‑school beekeeping apprenticeship – $40,000
The Office of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences will launch a beekeeping apprenticeship program for high‑school agriculture classes. The grant will provide equipment and supplies so students can raise bees, produce honey and help revive Louisiana’s declining beekeeping industry.
LSU AgCenter research – $206,188
Five projects at the LSU AgCenter will investigate crop damage, production efficiency and food‑safety concerns. Highlights include a $23,471 study at the Hammond Research Station testing fencing, electric deterrents and repellents to reduce deer damage to vegetables, small fruits, nursery plants and orchard crops.
Citrus protection – $17,911
Researchers will evaluate insect‑excluding protective covers designed to shield citrus trees from the pest that spreads citrus greening, measuring infection rates over one‑ and two‑year periods and assessing performance during hurricanes and freezes.
Pecan variety trials – $56,200
A trial will identify pecan varieties that thrive with fewer inputs, offering growers more resilient options.
Food‑safety innovations – $108,606
Two awards will fund development of an edible antimicrobial spray and a moisture‑absorbent antimicrobial packaging pad intended to reduce contamination and extend shelf life of produce.
Mayhaw orchard monitoring – $57,900
The Louisiana Mayhaw Association in Columbia will install weather‑monitoring systems at orchards, combining environmental data with growers’ observations to help producers assess weather risks.
Regional marketing – $47,590
The Big River Economic and Agricultural Development Alliance will use funds for regional marketing, farmers‑market programs and the creation of a new specialty‑crop retail outlet in the Greater Baton Rouge area.
State leadership response
“Louisiana’s specialty‑crop producers contribute to the diversity and strength of our state’s agricultural industry,” said Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain. “This funding will help support research, promote Louisiana‑grown products and provide educational opportunities that benefit our producers and consumers.”
The department noted that a technical review committee of university faculty and industry professionals evaluated applications and recommended funding based on program priorities and project merit.
National context
The Louisiana award is part of a broader $86.6 million USDA allocation for roughly 609 projects across the United States and its territories, underscoring the federal government’s commitment to advancing specialty‑crop innovation nationwide.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
