Paul Price, standing in a cotton field in northeast Louisiana, has responsibilities for studying plant diseases Louisiana crops, particularly cotton. (Photo by Myra Purvis)

News Release Distributed 11/07/13

WINNSBORO, La. – When Paul “Trey” Price began his career with the LSU AgCenter, he didn’t expect to be in the position he holds now.

But after more than 10 years with the organization, he’s found himself as a field crops plant pathologist with the title of assistant professor working out of the Macon Ridge Research Station.

A graduate of Louisiana Tech with a bachelor’s degree in agronomy and a master’s degree in biology, Price went to work for the AgCenter in 2003 as an extension associate and then as a research associate, working in entomology, weed science, agronomy and soil science.

In 2008 he returned to his studies and worked as a graduate assistant and research associate while studying for his doctorate in plant pathology with Boyd Padgett. When he graduated this year, he was appointed to his present position.

“I took the road less traveled, but I’ve learned a lot over the years as an associate,” Price said. “The experience with the AgCenter has been invaluable.”

“Trey is excited about the opportunity to work directly with our producers and industry groups to address the various disease issues affecting crop production in the region and throughout Louisiana,” said Rogers Leonard, AgCenter associate vice chancellor for plant and soil programs.

“He will also be the statewide contact to provide information concerning all aspects of disease management in cotton,” Leonard said. Additional responsibilities will include providing resource materials through publications and web-based channels to AgCenter extension agents and others.

“I hope I can use my experience to help producers in the northeast region and throughout Louisiana,” Price said.