(Distributed 11/20/09) Including a water feature in the landscape provides an oasis for a wide variety of wildlife. Providing habitat for wildlife is a principle of sustainable landscaping, and as a result aquatic gardens have become quite popular with Louisiana gardeners.

(Distributed 11/19/09) Louisiana’s dairy industry continues to struggle. The high costs for feed, fuel and fertilizer have cut into potential profits. And while these costs have gone down somewhat this year, so have the prices farmers get for their milk, said LSU AgCenter extension dairy specialist Charlie Hutchison at a field day on Nov. 12 at the Southeast Research Station in Franklinton.

(Distributed 11/17/09) November and December begin the bleak time of the year for warm-season turfgrasses in Louisiana. Most turfgrasses should be dormant or at least close to this stage.

(Distributed 11/16/09) Don't have room in your oven for the turkey, dressing, sweet potatoes, casseroles and pies? LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames suggests you can free-up oven space by frying the turkey outside.

(Distributed 11/13/09) OAK GROVE, La. – Three West Carroll Parish high school students were able to create digital fire district maps using Global Information System (GIS) technology, which they learned in a special training offered through the LSU AgCenter’s Delta Rural Development Center here. The result is a safer parish.

(Distributed 11/12/09) Turkey is the traditional choice for most Thanksgiving celebrations. There is no quality difference between a fresh or frozen turkey although fresh turkeys have shorter shelf lives, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

(Distributed 11/10/09) A Bossier Parish 4-H’er was recognized as a Louisiana Leader of Tomorrow by the Special Olympics of Louisiana. Amanda Pittmon, 19, of Benton, was named Entrepreneur of the Year.

(Distributed 11/10/09) Pies are traditionally served at most Thanksgiving feasts. To prevent food-borne illness, refrigerate pies such as pumpkin, custard and other cream pies containing eggs and milk, says LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

(Distributed 11/09/09) The LSU AgCenter is seeking photos for its 2011 Get It Growing Lawn and Garden Calendar. Louisiana photographers can submit their photos of flowers, plants and gardens for an opportunity to have their work selected for the calendar.

(News Distributed 11/06/2009) HAMMOND, La. – Landscape and nursery professionals heard about the latest plant varieties and LSU AgCenter plant evaluations at a plant materials conference here Oct. 29.