(Radio News 10/29/07) LSU AgCenter researchers are monitoring potential infestations of the panicle rice mite. LSU AgCenter rice entomologist Dr. Natalie Hummel explains what growers should do if they suspect a problem. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 10/29/07) Orange pumpkins, a traditional symbol of Halloween, don’t grow well in Louisiana’s climate. Farmers like Timmy Perilloux grow Creole pumpkins that can grow in unusual shapes. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Radio News 10/29/07) Pumpkins are popular this time of the year. Louisiana growers started their crop back in the summer according to LSU AgCenter county agent Rene Schmit. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Distributed 10/26/07) Halloween is a favorite holiday for many children, but candy is not necessarily the kids’ favorite treat, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames. Research reveals that youngsters enjoy nonfood treats, too.

(Distributed 10/25/07) More than 350 people attended the recent (Oct. 10-12) Louisiana Master Gardener State Conference.

(Distributed 10/23/07) About 70 people attending a seminar at the LSU AgCenter’s Red River Research Station recently learned ways to stop feral hogs from impinging on other wildlife populations and crops.

(Distributed 10/23/07) Every October, around 10,000 children wander through Perilloux’s Pumpkin Patch in St. Charles Parish in search of the perfect pumpkin. The operation started by accident 24 years ago with one Girl Scout troop and a small wagon. Today, school children and groups from across Southeast Louisiana board large trailers and make their way through Timmy Perilloux’s farm to the pumpkin patch.

(Distributed 10/23/07) Cattle producers got a look at South Louisiana’s possible answer to alfalfa during a recent LSU AgCenter cattle field day in Vermilion Parish.

(Distributed 10/22/07) To recognize the outstanding contributions made to Louisiana agriculture, the Louisiana Agri-News Network, Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation, the LSU AgCenter and the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry are seeking nominations for the 2008 Louisiana Farmer of the Year.

(Distributed 10/22/07) Since 2000, nearly 450 pest control operators and technicians have completed two days of either basic or master training programs on treating for termites and other wood-destroying insects at the Lois Caffey Termite Training Center at the LSU AgCenter in Baton Rouge.