News Release Distributed 04/24/15
VIOLET, La. – Three thousand New Orleans area school children will learn how agriculture affects their lives when the exhibit AgMagic on the River returns to Docville Farms in Violet on May 13-16.
AgMagic is an interactive event the LSU AgCenter puts on in Baton Rouge, Shreveport and Violet. While it is a learning experience for youngsters, it is presented in a fun, hands-on way, according to Wayne Burgess, LSU AgCenter agent in St. Bernard Parish.
“We want them to enjoy the experience and leave with the understanding that agriculture is more than just what they put in their mouths. It’s insects and forestry and aquaculture,” Burgess said.
The property at Docville Farms allows visitors to AgMagic to walk through several barns and see insects, farm animals, plants, wildlife, fish, forests and food. Docville also has an observation deck where students can climb to the top and look out over the Mississippi River.
Docville Farms is located at 5124 E. St. Bernard Highway in Violet, 15 minutes from downtown New Orleans.
Bill Haines, a board member of the Meraux Foundation, which operates the farm, said AgMagic is the perfect event to fulfill the wishes of their aunt, Arlene Meraux, who created the foundation. Haines said his aunt wanted the farm to be a cultural and educational center for St. Bernard Parish.
Lauren Faust, also an AgCenter agent in St. Bernard Parish, said registered school groups will come from Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard and Plaquemines parishes on May 13-15. AgMagic will be open to the public on Saturday, May 16, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The LSU AgCenter started AgMagic in Baton Rouge in 2004, eventually expanding it to the Louisiana State Fair in Shreveport. This is the second year the AgCenter will host AgMagic on the River.
“I think a lot of them liked making the connection between their food and where it actually comes from,” Faust said of last year’s event.
Volunteers interested in helping with tours and stations within AgMagic can contact the LSU AgCenter St. Bernard office at 504-278-4234.
Tobie Blanchard