News

2025 soybean crop in all growth stages across state

Mississippi’s soybean crop is literally all over the place in terms of development, but nearly all of it looks good.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture -- National Agricultural Statistics Service estimates Mississippi will have 2.05 million acres of soybeans. As of July 27, USDA estimated 59% of the crop was in good or excellent condition. Another 27% was rated fair, with just 4% in poor condition.

Jacob Dykes named MSU Extension wildlife specialist

The Mississippi State University Extension Service named Jacob Dykes the new wildlife specialist and co-director of the MSU Deer Lab.

Hunters continue to battle CWD in state deer herds

Chronic wasting disease, or CWD, continues to spread in deer in Mississippi, but efforts by hunters, landowners and wildlife managers are keeping the numbers in check.

The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, or MDWFP, tested 128 deer positive for CWD from July 2024 to June 2025. That number is up from 110 deer that tested positive during the same period from 2023 to 2024.

Miscanthus High Frequency, a must-have ornamental grass

If your summer garden feels a little static, you maybe should consider adding plants that bring movement, texture and structure to the landscape.

MSU Extension offers next Master Gardener classes

Master Gardeners are known for their expert knowledge and community service, and those interested in joining this group have an opportunity to sign up for training starting Aug. 13.

Price swings have little effect on timber industry momentum

MSU Muscadine Field Day to be held Aug. 28

Anyone growing muscadine grapes or interested in learning more about this fruit crop is invited to attend the Muscadine Field Day, hosted on Aug. 28 by Mississippi State University in Carriere.

The event takes place in the vineyard at the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station’s McNeill Unit. The event begins at 9 a.m. with an hour of instruction and questions and answers.

Outdoor workers at increased risk for heat-related illness

RAYMOND, Miss. -- High summer temperatures can be unsafe for anyone, but these conditions are especially dangerous for outdoor workers. That is why this high-risk group, which includes agricultural workers, should pay special attention to heat-related weather advisories and take necessary precautions.

Vincas’ ability to thrive make them garden greats

Sometimes, the most powerful examples of plant resilience do not come from cultivated garden beds, but from the cracks in the pavement. Vinca, also known as Madagascar periwinkle, is one of those humble garden plants that quietly earn your admiration for its beauty and sheer will to thrive.

Master Gardeners maintain a beautiful MSU garden

During a recent visit to the Mississippi State University South Mississippi Branch Experiment Station in Poplarville, I had the pleasure of exploring the beautiful display garden created and maintained by the Pearl River County Master Gardeners.