BILOXI, Miss. -- Mississippi State University researchers and specialists heard suggestions from coastal area agricultural producers and industry leaders about the research and education they need from the university in 2020.
The MSU Coastal Research and Extension Center Producer Advisory Council meeting was held on Feb. 27 in Biloxi. The annual meeting helps the university allocate time and resources to the most important issues facing Mississippi’s agricultural producers and related industries.
“Thank you for taking the time away from your businesses to be with us today,” said James Henderson, head of the Coastal Research and Extension Center. “We will make the most of this day for you. It’s going to be a valuable day for you and for all of us.”
Ideas and input from advisory council participants guide how Experiment Station and MSU Extension Service personnel plan research and educational efforts.
“Your being here today is appreciated,” said Extension Director Gary Jackson. “The information we get during this meeting is one of the ways we know what you need.”
Producers from nine commodity groups met in breakout sessions to discuss their groups’ priorities.
Beekeepers reported workshops on queen rearing, hive inspection policies and nutrition labels will be held soon.
Commercial ornamental and home horticulture representatives recognized the 25th Anniversary of the Mississippi Medallion program. Extension horticulturist and Experiment Station researcher Gary Bachman is developing a book to be released this year. They discussed current research trials, including crape myrtle propagation and native plant propagation. The group discussed the Extension Master Floral Designer program, pointing out the program won two Gold Star Awards at a recent professional association conference.
Forestry group members said they want more hands-on prescribed fire training and a training program for local and state administrators, such as county supervisors, on invasive species to help them recognize and manage these plants.
Fruit and vegetable growers learned MSU is now a member of the small fruit consortium, which allows agents and specialists to participate in a variety of educational opportunities. Commodity group leaders informed attendees about programs and research, including work on fruit tree diseases. Group members also discussed fish for fertilizer, which is currently being studied.
Representatives of the horse and small ruminant group said they want research on COPD in horses. Researchers are seeking input from producers on potential research on conservation grazing. Henderson said the application process for the small ruminant specialist position is open.
Members of the livestock group said they want more education on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s changes to requirements related to Trichomoniasis tests. They are interested in information on producer practices that can help with small grass issues. The group was informed about the upcoming release from MSU of record-keeping applications and paperwork to help producers.
Marine resources representatives heard updates on research and other work being done on oysters, avian ecology, living shorelines and sea level rise.
Poultry group members heard updates from Extension poultry specialist Tom Tabler on research and information about antibiotic-free commercial poultry production. He also informed the group that he is available to do educational programs on pH testing of water used in poultry production.
