News

Analysis: Ag, forestry vital to Miss. economy

Use cool season baskets for fall and winter color

Cool-season hanging baskets are one of my favorite ways to bring vibrant color and texture to my outdoor space when temperatures start to drop.

State’s pecan crop at harvest after drought

Mississippi appears to have a decent-sized pecan crop this year, but quality may have been reduced by the dry summer.
James Callahan, president of the Mississippi Pecan Growers Association, said the organization estimates Mississippi has about 18,000 acres of pecans in production with 400 growers.

Virtual workshop helps aspiring municipal candidates

STARKVILLE, Miss. -- Individuals who are interested in running for municipal office in 2025 have three opportunities to learn more about the roles of elected officials and the election process during a free, virtual workshop. The Mississippi State University Extension Center for Government and Community Development is offering Ready to Lead: A Workshop for Aspiring Municipal Leaders in Mississippi.

Three ways to help local food pantries thrive

STARKVILLE, Miss. -- As the holidays approach, consider three ways to share the joys of the season by supporting local food pantries. Gifts of money, time and food items are all welcome.

Use chrysanthemums for pretty fall displays

Hunters can still plant, replant deer food plots

RAYMOND, Miss. -- Frustration is mounting for deer hunters across Mississippi whose cool-season food plots died or never got planted because of drought conditions. Although it’s November, hunters still have time to replant.

Many growers see good yields as sweet potato harvest wraps

RAYMOND, Miss. -- Despite another year of dry, hot conditions during the growing season, Mississippi’s sweet potato crop looks excellent overall as producers head into the final weeks of harvest. Lorin Harvey, sweet potato specialist with the Mississippi State University Extension Service, said 85% of the crop has been harvested as of Oct. 30. He has been surprised by the yields that many producers are seeing.

Peanut harvest near close, acreage up

RAYMOND, Miss. -- Mississippi’s peanut producers are close to wrapping up harvest for 2024. Producers planted 25,500 acres of peanuts, a 30% increase from last year. This year, growers returned between 4,000 and 5,000 acres to peanut production.