PotashCorp donation will aid AgCenter youth livestock program

 PotashCorp, of Geismer, La., recently donated $25,000 to the LSU AgCenter’s youth livestock development program.

The donation will support the state livestock show, which is an educational program of Louisiana 4‑H and FFA.

More than 2,000 4-H and FFA exhibitors and 1,500 breeding animals, 1,600 market animals, 180 pens of broilers and 700 exhibition birds usually compete in the annual state show held in February.

PotashCorp looks for education programs to support in communities where their plants are located. Their Geismer plant is located in the Ascension/Iberville parish area near the Lamer Dixon Expo Center where the state livestock show is held.

Garry Hiebert, resources manager of the PotashCorp Geismer facility, said the company wants to support and partner with programs that make a difference in the parishes and communities they serve.

The AgCenter youth livestock programs align with the company’s goal to support agribusiness and the leaders for tomorrow.

Youth who participate in livestock projects gain knowledge of animal husbandry – including selection, genetics, nutrition, health, fitting, showing, economics and marketing, said Dwayne Nunez, Livestock Show manager.

As a result of what they learn, generations of young people who have participated in LSU AgCenter livestock projects go on to become leaders,  whether in the livestock industry or a variety of other fields ranging from medicine to government.

More information on supporting LSU AgCenter’s youth livestock program is available from Vickie Hutchinson at 225-578-2255.