Agriculture: Helping Grow Louisiana's Economy This book summarizes Louisiana's most significant agricultural enterprises for 1997. Compiled by agents and specialists of the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service, it focuses on the animal, forestry, fisheries, plant and wildlife commodities that comprise our vital agricultural industry-an industry that has increased its contribution to the state's economy for each of the last five years. In 1997, Louisiana farmers, foresters, fishermen and ranchers produced
more than $4.3 billion in agricultural commodities that left the farm gate.
By the time those products were processed, another $5.7 billion was added
to their value for a total contribution of nearly $10 billion by Louisiana
agricultural enterprises in 1997.
But, agriculture is more than a business to those who work in it day-in and day-out. It is a way of life. As generations of families continue to devote their lives to the land and the state's rich agrarian tradition, no one would doubt that the production of that food is a way of life for Louisiana's farm families. As with every other endeavor in life, agriculture has its "ups" and
"downs." How "up" or how "down" in agriculture often depends on unpredictable,
uncontrollable forces such as weather, prices, pests and government policies
and regulations. Every year Louisiana farmers confront circumstances
that test their best skills and threaten their very financial existence.
Agricultural production is not easy, but neither is it optional.
Louisiana's agriculture is an increasingly sophisticated and productive segment of national and world agriculture, and one that continues to make major contributions to the state's economy. That is why faculty in the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service support our agricultural industries with information gained by agricultural researchers in the Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station and in other settings around the world. Those of us in the LSU Agricultural Center, the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service and the Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station are proud to serve Louisiana's agricultural industry, and we look forward to continuing that service for many years to come. Sincerely,
|
 1997 Summary, Agriculture and Natural Resources Animal Enterprises Beef Cattle Dairying Exotic Animals Horses Poultry Rabbits Sheep & Goats Swine Fisheries and Wildlife Enterprises
Plant Enterprises
|
The statistical information in this summary is compiled from estimates made by agents of the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service after consulting with agricultural agency representatives, agricultural and agribusiness leaders and others and after study of various reports and resource materials.
Although this material is reasonably accurate and can be used for planning and other general information purposes, this is not the official document of agricultural data for the state. Official statistical data are gathered, summarized and published by the Louisiana Agricultural Statistics Service, P.O. Box 65038, Baton Rouge, LA 70896. Reproduction or publication of information in this summary should acknowledge the unofficial nature of the statistics.
A gross value has been computed for each commodity, which in some cases includes a value from natural resources and, consequently, does not represent income to farmers. The gross value is an indicator of the commodity's contribution to economic activity, but is not an indicator of farm profits. Production costs cut heavily into profit for many commodities. Even where there might have been an increase in gross income over previous years, there might have been a corresponding increase in the cost of production.
In the state summaries, the value added in marketing, processing and transportation is estimated in order to indicate the total contribution of agriculture and natural resources to the state's economy.
The state summary is not an exact summation of all parish reports. Some adjustments have been made, considering changes in average prices received, reports from statewide agricultural agencies and organizations and information from other sources.
In each parish table, only the commodities that were of economic value in that parish in 1997 are listed. Where the number of producers or the number of acres is omitted, that information was not available. An asterisk indicates that the number was so small that its inclusion might have revealed confidential information on individual producers.
Within some commodity groups, such as grains, fruits and commercial vegetables, the total number of producers has been omitted because some producers grow several different crops within the group. Adding together the producers of individual crops would not give a true total for the group.
Animal Enterprises
Beef Cattle
1997 was the turning point from very low prices to prices producers could live with. The change occurred mostly in the last half of the year. Calves, mostly right off cows, are the primary unit of sales and improved significantly in value. Estimated gross value of the Louisiana beef industry in 1997 was $256,810,371, an increase over 1996 of about 27%.
Costs of feeder cattle and cost of feed have a tremendous effect on calf value. When feedlot costs are higher, calves and feeder cattle tend to take a price penalty.
The average herd size in Louisiana is 49 head. Coastal parishes have
the heaviest concentration of cattle. Several herds of 150 head or more
are in those parishes. About 13,700 producers owned beef cattle in 1997.
DAIRYING
Milk production was reported by 28 parishes in 1997. Three
parishes in the southeastern part of the state and one parish in the northwest
accounted for about 85% of all milk production in Louisiana in 1997.
Dairy farms decreased from 590 in 1996 to 557 in 1997. The
number of milk cows fell from 68,010 in 1996 to 65,759 in 1997. Total milk
production decreased from 821 million pounds in 1996 to 795 million pounds
in 1997. The on-farm value of milk decreased from $127.9 million in 1996
to $112.1 million in 1997. The value of cull cows and calves was an estimated
$8 million in 1997. Total income from milk and animal sales to Louisiana
dairy producers was $120 million in 1997 compared to $135.9 million in
1996. Processing and retail sales added $174 million to the on-farm value
of milk. The total economic contribution from dairying in Louisiana, including
animal sales and added value, was $294.1 million.
Fifteen parishes reported production of exotic animals (deer, llamas). Gross farm value of exotic animals was estimated at $381,500. Lafayette, Calcasieu, E. Feliciana, Vernon, St. Tammany, St. Martin, Madison and Acadia parishes reported the largest inventories of breeding animals.
The horse industry is an important economic asset. Approximately 225,000 horses are owned by an estimated 75,000 people. The average recreational horse owner spends about $2,200 per year on feed, equipment, tack and veterinary supplies and medicines. This results in an estimated $495 million of economic activity.
Some 4,196 producers owned 23,899 mares which produced 13,060
colts sold in 1997 for $21,967,200. These producers owned 1,089 stallions
which were bred to 12,392 mares, generating income from stallion fees of
$8,301,800. An estimated 7,131 pleasure horses were sold for approximately
$7,747,300. Total income generated directly from horse production in 1997
was $38,016,300.
The race horse industry generates a tremendous cash flow,
but the industry is down slightly because of other forms of gambling in
Louisiana. The race tracks employ about 4,000 people and generate an on-track
pari-mutuel handle of about $150 million. An equal amount is estimated
to be spent on concessions and other related items at the tracks. The combined
effects of breeding, racing, race track operation and related industries
generated more than $500 million in expenditures in 1997.
Horse shows, rodeos and youth programs also have an impact.
An estimated 500 horse shows, rodeos and youth activities are conducted
yearly and generate about $8.5 million in expenditures.
The total direct impact of the horse industry in Louisiana
approaches $1 billion. This economic stimulus is provided to a great extent
by horsemen who list satisfaction and enjoyment as primary reasons for
horse ownership.
Poultry production continues to be the largest animal agricultural
industry in Louisiana, second only to forestry in total income production.
More than 827 million pounds of broilers were produced in 1997 compared
to the 788 million pounds produced in 1996. This 40 million pound increase
was associated with the reopening of the Arcadia poultry processing facility
by Randall Farms and modification in production demands at the Farmerville
and Natchitoches plants. Broiler producer numbers fell in 1997 to 738,
down from 927 in1996. This reduction was primarily associated with a decline
in home and small scale producers; about 530 of the 738 producers are involved
in commercial broiler production.
Commercial broilers are produced in 12 parishes including Bienville,
Claiborne, Jackson, Lincoln, Livingston, Natchitoches, Ouachita, Sabine,
Union, Vernon, Webster and Winn. Union, Sabine and Lincoln parishes have
the largest broiler production with 312 million, 120 million and 102 million
pounds of broilers produced annually, respectively. The gross farm value
of these live unprocessed broilers exceeded $331 million. All processing
is reflected in the value added figure estimated at $376 million.
The total number of table egg producers in Louisiana was down slightly
from 1,636 in 1996 to 1,593 in 1997. Total eggs produced also decreased
by 12 million from 337 million in 1996 to 325 million in 1997. Lower production
also resulted in a $2.5 million decrease in farm value for commercial egg
production, from $21 million in 1996 to $18.5 million in 1997.
The total value for all poultry production in Louisiana exceeded $764 million in 1997, making it the largest animal agricultural industry in the state.
Ratite and Other Exotic Fowl
The sale of ratites and exotic fowl generated more than $2 million in Louisiana during 1997. The trend for declines in bird values continued. Total number of producers decreased again, falling to 407. The total number of birds produced was 6,498, down from 6,639 in 1996. There were just under 10,000 birds in Louisiana in 1997 compared to more than 11,000 in 1996. The following parishes have the largest concentration of exotic fowl producers:
| PARISH | PRODUCERS | BIRDS SOLD |
| Calcasieu | 45 | 245 |
| Claiborne | 31 | 452 |
| Lafayette | 20 | 240 |
| LaFourche | 29 | 318 |
| Sabine | 30 | 220 |
| St. Tammany | 33 | 745 |
| St. Martin | 25 | 150 |
| Vermilion | 20 | 298 |
Quail and Pheasants
The number of quail and pheasant producers rose from 43 in 1996 to 62 in 1997. St. Martin, Acadia and Red River parishes had the largest number of producers with 15, 10 and 10, respectively. Total production almost doubled in 1997 to 50,711 birds produced. A gross farm income of $102,550 was generated by these activities.
The production of rabbits for meat and exhibition involved 401 producers in 1997, up from 359 in 1996. There were 280 fryer producers. This facet of the industry produced 468,309 pounds of rabbit meat. Louisiana rabbit producers generated more than $1.1 million in gross farm income. Value added for rabbits was an estimated $113,650. Total value for rabbit production was an estimated $1,250,192 for 1997.
Forty-eight parishes reported production of sheep and goats.
Sheep were produced by 757 producers and goats, by 370 producers. Breeding
ewes were estimated at 12,000 head, and breeding does were estimated at
5,303 head.
Vermilion (1,789), Acadia (1,600), St. Landry (1,520), Evangeline
(1,500), Calcasieu (800), Allen (700), Tangipahoa (650), Lafayette (600),
Iberia (500) and Beauregard (350) reported the largest number of breeding
ewes.
Livingston (600), Beauregard (500), Calcasieu (450), East Baton Rouge (400), St. Landry (355), Avoyelles (250), West Carroll (200) and Rapides (200) reported the largest number of breeding does.
Total number of lambs marketed (slaughter, feeder and club lambs)
was estimated at 12,992 head. Cull sheep numbered 3,290 head. Stocker sheep
numbered 952 head. Wool production was estimated at 75,029 pounds. A total
of 32,525 pounds of wool was marketed in the 1997 LWGA wool pool for a
value of $.5380 per pound.
Total number of slaughter goats was estimated at 3,343 head. Stocker
goats numbered 2,303 head. Cull goats numbered 1,282 head.
Gross farm value from sheep, wool and goats was estimated at $2,312,145.
Value added amounted to $208,093. Total value of sheep, wool and goats
was estimated at $2,520,238.
Louisiana had 609 swine producers in 1997 compared to 597 in
1996. Forty-five parishes reported production of pigs. The size of the
breeding herd and the number of hogs produced decreased slightly, with
the breeding herd at 7,347 head in 1997.
Some 4,572 show pigs were sold in 1997, down slightly from 5,619
in 1996. There were 24, 421 feeder pigs and 65,268 market hogs produced
and sold in 1997. Total pig production was 97,743 head. Gross farm value
to swine producers was more than $11 million.
As in 1996, more producers retained gilts and used artificial insemination
to produce and sell show pigs. The average selling price per show pig is
about $200. This premium income helps some producers to stay in business.
Market hog and feeder pig prices increased during the second half of the
year. Feed costs were down slightly, with the cost of corn returning to
more normal levels.
The added value of processing hogs in Louisiana was $2,647,172 in
1997. The total value of hogs produced and processed in Louisiana was $13,677,053.
FISHERIES AND WILDLIFE
ENTERPRISES
AQUACULTURE
Pond-bank prices for farm-raised catfish remained low throughout 1997, continuing to approach the cost of production for smaller or less efficient operations. Reductions in acreage (-9%), total production (-12%) and number of producers (-10%) all reflected reduced marketing opportunities for Louisiana producers during 1997. Uncertainty about markets decreased stocking and feeding rates in late 1996 and early 1997, and reductions in total production combined with low prices to reduce gross farm value by roughly 19%.
Louisiana crawfish acreage totaled 112,777 in 1997, a slight increase from the previous year and the second successive year of increase. Farm-raised crawfish production (46.9 million pounds) was up by 5% compared to last year. This increase in production, when coupled with lower prices because of a moderate increase in wild harvest, caused gross farm income to fall to $27.9 million. Commercial fishermen, processors, crawfish farmers and the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry were successful in petitioning the U.S. Dept. of Commerce for protection from increased imports of Chinese crawfish tailmeat. A 123% tariff was imposed on all crawfish tailmeat coming from China. Because of the tariff, imports dropped from 10 million pounds in 1996 to slightly more than 2 million pounds in 1997.
The number of farm-raised alligators hit a record high in 1997
with 155,166 animals recorded. Despite the increase in production, total
value of farm-raised alligator skins remained unchanged from 1996 at $9.4
million. Skin prices fell to $15.50 per foot, the lowest value since 1992.
The number of licensed farms (89) continued to drop from the 134 farms
licensed in 1991. The trend of selling farm-raised live alligators to processors
continued in 1997. This trend should stabilize the quality of meat reaching
the consumer. Farm-raised and wild alligator harvest data were provided
by Rockefeller Refuge biologists with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife
and Fisheries.
Production of other aquaculture species (baby turtles, tilapia,
hybrid striped bass, koi carp, redfish, ornamental fish, soft-shell crawfish,
etc.) rose significantly (+53%) by weight in 1997, largely as a result
of increasing contributions by tilapia and hybrid striped bass, but gross
value was virtually unchanged (+2%) because of price and production decreases
for other species. Production, acreage and gross farm value of pond-raised
minnows were down about 12%, reflecting shrinking markets for live baitfish
caused by competition from artificial lures. Similar reductions in fishbait
were apparent in 1997.
FISHERIES
The harvest of freshwater and marine fish and shellfish in
Louisiana continued to be a significant economic activity. Landings of
the numerous species are recorded by two agencies. The Louisiana Department
of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) receives monthly reports from the initial
buyers (processors, dealers, etc.). Species, weight and dockside value
of the landings are reported for all commercially harvested species. The
National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is responsible for estimating
the landings of shrimp. This is done by local NMFS data collectors.
NMFS is solely responsible for estimates of recreationally caught marine
fish and shellfish. Because of extensive delays in the availability of
recreational catch data from state and federal marine waters, only the
previous year's catch can be reported here.
LDWF and NMFS commercial landings data are incomplete each year
when the deadline arrives for publishing this agricultural summary. Preliminary
data for January to August 1997 were used as a basis to forecast 1997 totals.
Extension agents in parishes with significant fisheries localize the estimates
to the parish level.
FRESHWATER FISHERIES
Landings of crawfish increased 54% in 1997 from 1996. Prices received
by fishermen for the wild harvest were lower than 1996. The approximately
20% lower prices, when combined with the higher production, resulted in
an 18% increase in value. Wild crawfish production at $15.7 million was
the state's largest freshwater fishery by a factor of three. Wild catfish
production reached 11 million pounds. This recent record may be the result
of better reporting. Landed value of $5.8 million for catfish, when combined
with the other finfish, resulted in a total of $8.6 million of freshwater
finfish. Part of the increase was credited to a 30% increase in landings
of buffalo fish. Some freshwater species are traditionally caught south
of theregulatory line dividing marine and freshwater areas. The full effect
of the ban on use of gill nets in marine areas resulted in a landings decrease
of some freshwater species. Gar fish, the highest value freshwater species,
was the species most affected.
Approximately 2,500 more wild alligators were caught than in 1996.
The length of the skins sold was 211,432 feet. This was 20,000 feet longer
than in 1996. Skin quality and the market for the meat were good. Skin
prices were exceptionally low because of world market conditions. Altogether,
the value of wild alligator production fell to $3.8 million from the previous
year's $4.8 million. The 28% decrease in skin price per foot was the cause.
The value of marine commercial landings for 1997 was $330 million, a 34% increase over 1996. The increase was fueled mainly by price increases, not landings increases. The shrimp industry experienced a $62 million increase with only a small change in landings compared to 1996. Season opening prices in May were particularly attractive. Overall, shrimp prices were up by 30%. The western part of the state did not have good shrimp production. Menhaden, the state's largest fishery in volume, increased about 10%. Blue crab production was also up slightly. A bill to replace the current moratorium on blue crab licenses with a license limitation program failed to pass the Louisiana Legislature.
Oyster production was excellent, and prices were good. All oyster production is reported in the aquaculture classification because of Louisiana's extensive program of leased oyster-growing areas. In 1997 production in the public reef areas in Louisiana was outstanding.
Marine recreational anglers are a large group of harvesters. Unlicensed anglers must be estimated because residents younger than 16 years or older than 60 need not purchase a license. The unlicensed and licensed saltwater anglers combined represent 400,000 to 450,000 people. The latest data available from NMFS indicate they caught 12 million fish of various species in 1996. This inshore and offshore harvest of marine finfish is not customarily measured in pounds because of the high prospect of estimation error. The 12 million marine fish caught and retained in 1996 by anglers was 12% below the previous 5-year average.
Some changes did occur in 1997. Highlights include the first
Louisiana bag limit established for summer flounder (10) and a late November
closure of federal waters for the capture of red snapper. Speckled trout
and red drum still comprise 75% of angler catches. The Louisiana charter
guide industry continued to expand. In 1996 there were 191 resident charter
guides, but by 1997 there were 258. This expanded fishing service to many
anglers, particularly tourists. The National Survey of Fishing, Hunting
and Wildlife Associated Recreation for 1996 lists average annual expenditures
per saltwater angler of $856.
FUR PRODUCTION
The 1996-1997 harvest of fur animal pelts was valued at $3,527,389, with a total production of 487,208 pelts. Production and value were considerably above last year's totals, indicating an increasingly stronger market. These numbers coincide with continued recovery of the fur trade on the world market. Renewed acceptance of fur in the fashion industry has been credited with these positive market trends.
Meat production from fur animals, mainly from raccoons and nutria, increased in pounds of production and gross farm value. These figures were 840,182 pounds and $369,675, respectively. A continued increase in both production and value is expected as economic markets strive to make nutria meat available for human consumption. The results of these efforts would raise the value of nutria carcasses from a few cents to several dollars. Success for this campaign will depend on public acceptance of nutria as food.
Louisiana honey production in 1997 was up slightly from 1996, even though losses to Varroa and Tracheal mites and extreme cold caused colony losses. Colony losses continued at 10%, but total hives in Louisiana increased to 36,613. This is up about 3,000 hives from a year ago.
Commercial production averaged 136 pounds per hive, with some hives producing more than 310 pounds. Total production averaged 99 pounds per hive. Increases are credited to the lack of competition from feral colonies. Queen and package producers continue to decline, but these sales, plus equipment sales, account for $150,000. Pollination services are the greatest value of the honeybee to the Louisiana homeowner and farmer, about $390,000,000. There is great concern about reduced pollination. Many growers and homeowners have inquired about and use commercial beekeepers for pollination services or are considering getting their own colonies. There was an increase to 5,118 hives used in Louisiana for pollination, adding $127,950 to beekeepers' income. These figures continue to increase with the loss of all feral hives because of mite infestations. There is continued interest in going into beekeeping by hobbyists and by commercial producers.
Honey value has increased because of limitations on imported honey, fewer wild hives because of mites and more demand for honey. Income was up because of the increase in the number of hives and improved management, even though the price of honey fell 10 cents to 74 cents. In 1997, farmers earned $2,936,251 including income from sales of honey, pollination services and sales of queen bees and equipment.
Hunting Leases
One of the impacts of recreational hunting toward the state's
economy is expressed through hunting lease enterprises. An estimated 5,298
producers have 5.7 million acres under some sort of lease agreement. Total
gross farm value for these leases was estimated at more than $29.1 million.
Almost every parish reported some sort of hunting lease activity.
Most leases involved white-tailed deer, with per acre lease rates varying according to the quantity and quality of the deer herd present. Leases for waterfowl hunting, although involving fewer acres, in many instances accounted for a larger per acre dollar figure than leases for white-tailed deer and other upland game animals. Most hunting lease agreements involve the privilege to hunt all game species within a given area and a given season, although some acreage is leased separately for different species. The continued growth of urban areas into the surrounding rural countryside will probably increase the demand for, and therefore the price of, future areas suitable to sustain any type of hunting lease enterprise.
In 1997, 3,732 producers harvested 629,669 acres of cotton. Yield (lint per acre) was estimated at 735 pounds lint per acre. Total production was 0.96 million bales, with an estimated gross crop value of $357,395,345. The year began with a cold, wet planting period. This continued into mid-May and was followed by a dry period. Timely rains throughout some areas provided needed moisture to produce a good crop, but low prices offset the benefit of a favorable harvest. Overall growing conditions varied throughout the state, but overall harvest conditions were favorable. Initial grades were excellent, but declined as producers proceeded with the harvest.
Producers planted about 35% of their acreage to Bt cotton varieties. Overall, these varieties performed favorably, but it is uncertain what percentage of Bt varieties will be planted in 1998. Performance of Roundup ready and Buctril tolerant cottons varied. Concern was expressed about the possibility of 'boll shedding' in Roundup ready cottons, but this was not a significant problem. These varieties are promising, but producers should not plant 100% of their acreage to these varieties.
Producers should use multiple varieties when planning for the 1998 season regardless of whether or not the varieties are conventional or transgenic.
The feed grain crops (primarily corn and grain sorghum) did well in 1997, although not equal to the record crop of 1996. The average corn yield was 117 bushels per acre, and that of grain sorghum, 39 cwt. per acre. Oat yields were down from a year ago to 77 bushels per acre. The spring weather was wetter than normal, interfering with timely planting of corn and grain sorghum and causing disease problems in oats. Much of the corn crop was planted in mid to late April, which affected yields. In spite of the bad start, drought stress was confined to a few acres. Most of the corn and grain sorghum received ample rains, which made up for the late planting.
Feed grain producers totaled 3,389, down slightly from a year ago. Corn acreage dropped 100,000 acres to 424,000 because of adverse early spring weather. Grain sorghum acreage also decreased to 80,000 acres. Much of this was because of more favorable soybean prices. The gross farm income of $142 million for the feed grains was one-half that of 1996 and was caused by lower prices and lower production.
Feed grains have expanded in the last several years in the upper Mississippi Delta parishes, mainly at the expense of cotton. It is likely that corn and cotton will compete for the same land and will fluctuate as prices and yields vary. A further increase in feed grains is predicted for 1998.
The projected Louisiana forestry income and value went up in 1997.
The 1997 total sawlog harvest decreased by 72 million board feet to a cut
of 1,359,007,504 board feet, caused by the decline in hardwood sawtimber
harvest. The estimated pine sawtimber harvest increased by 8.2% to
a total statewide harvest of 1,282,320,546 board feet. The hardwood
sawtimber harvest was 176,686,958 board feet. Production of pine
chip-n-saw timber decreased by 2.8% to a harvest of 393,562 cords.
The estimated 1997 Louisiana pulpwood harvest was 5,435,872 cords,
down from 5,835,600 cords in 1996. However, the pine pulpwood harvest
was down only by 2.4% to a total of 3,835,198 cords. Hardwood pulpwood
production was down 16% to a harvest of 1,600,674 cords.
All timber prices remained high throughout the year, led by a strong economy and raw material scarcity caused by demand and wet weather.
With wood-using industries in all parishes, and only one parish not having a commercial timber harvest, forestry provides benefits to both urban and rural areas in many ways.
In 1997, the 113,000 Louisiana private landowners received an estimated $766,500,687 from the sale of forest timber. Timber harvesting contractors and their employees earned $390,260,945 from harvesting the trees and moving wood to mills. This income is re-spent many times throughout the economy. In addition the 133 Christmas tree growers received $2,337,008 from the sale of trees. Louisiana-produced pinestraw sales made $269,000, and firewood producers sold an estimated $3,404,750 of firewood from forests. Louisiana forest tree seedling nurseries produced a crop worth $3,129,271 in 1997. The total non-timber forestry income was an estimated $9,140,229.
An estimated 25,000 individuals received income directly from the manufacturing of Louisiana forest products. This payroll and income derived from money generated by the forestry and wood products industry totaled an estimated $5.3 billion. The gross farm income produced by all forestry-related products, such as timber, pine straw, firewood and Christmas trees, totaled $1,165,901,862 in 1997. The value-added through further processing and delivery was $4,103,974,552.
The Louisiana forest products industry is the second largest employer in Louisiana, ahead of oil and slightly behind chemicals. Forestry is still Louisiana's number one crop and expanding. New manufacturing facilities and upgrades are adding manufacturing capacity and diversity to this important Louisiana industry.
Citrus
Citrus is grown on about 1,200 acres, with no significant change
from the previous year. Gross farm value of citrus increased for the second
successive year and is $4.1 million. This trend should continue as trees
reach a more productive age and size.
Peaches
Peach acreage was about 560. Gross farm value, $1.7 million,
increased primarily because of better growing conditions in 1997.
Strawberries
Strawberry acreage fell by 200 acres in 1997. The current
acreage is about 450. Gross farm value fell as a result of reduced acreage
and less than ideal growing conditions.
Blueberries
Blueberry acreage remained steady for 1997 at 500. Gross farm
value increased in 1997 to $1.5 million compared to $0.5 million in 1996.
Miscellaneous
Many miscellaneous fruits are planted in Louisiana as
small commercial plantings or backyard plantings. Their estimated gross
farm value is about $400,000.
Hay production for commercial sales is a limited part of the
total production in Louisiana each year. Hay produced from 430 acres of
alfalfa and 175,089 acres of grasslands was sold by 3,573 producers in
1997. Yields averaged 2.91 tons per acre from the grasslands harvested
for sale and 4.76 tons per acre from the alfalfa harvested for sale. Production
included 510,310 tons of grass hay and 2,045 tons of alfalfa hay. These
values are about the same as those reported in 1996. Gross farm value of
this hay was more than $25 million. This was a decrease compared to the
1996 crop, which was valued at $32 million.
Hay for all uses was harvested from an estimated 330,000 acres which
yielded 2.70 tons per acre, resulting in a total production of 891,000
tons. Total hay production in Louisiana in 1997 had a gross farm value
of more than $44 million. Hay yield in 1997 was similar to the yield reported
in 1996. Acres of hay reported were up 20,000 acres compared to 1996. Value
of hay fed to animals on the farm where it was grown is reflected in gross
farm value of livestock.
The 1997 gross farm value of home vegetable gardens in Louisiana
was an estimated $119,757,918. Parish reports indicated 371,919 gardens
statewide, reflecting that garden interest was up 2.6% from 1996. Every
parish has home gardens, but about 37% of Louisiana gardens are in the
urban areas of New Orleans, Baton Rouge and Shreveport (48% if the Lake
Charles area is included). Families can trim food budgets and improve nutrition
by gardening. Freshness, vegetable quality, exercise and pleasure are important
motivations for Louisiana gardeners. Because of the moderate economic situation
in Louisiana and various personal benefits, home garden interest should
remain strong.
NURSERY STOCK AND ORNAMENTALS
Commercial nursery crop production in 1997 had a gross farm gate value of $106,964,750, a slight increase from 1996. Floriculture and bedding plants declined slightly because of inclement weather patterns during the spring retail sales period. Woody ornamental sales increased significantly in 1997. In 1997, bedding plants and floricultural crops were valued at $26,859,100, fruit and nut trees at $1,542,250, woody ornamentals at $69,292,000 and foliage plants at $9,271,400. With a value added of $54,552,023, the total value of commercial nursery crops in Louisiana in 1997 was $161,516,773.
The 1997 pecan crop was an estimated 12.6 million pounds, down more than 10 million from 1996. Gross farm value was $7.5 million, down more than $5 million from the previous year.
Rice acreage in Louisiana increased from 529,413 acres in 1996
to 546,786 acres in 1997, the first acreage increase since 1994. The primary
cause of the increase was farm legislation and the combination of a firm
rice price outlook coupled with somewhat lower commodity prices in other
crops. Most acreage fluctuation over the past few years has occurred in
northeast Louisiana where more cropping options are possible.
Average yield per acre was 5,238 pounds per acre, which is slightly
below the record 5,485 pounds per acre reported in 1996.
Even though acreage was higher than in 1996, total production at
28,643,181 pounds was slightly lower as a result of lower yields per acre.
The Louisiana crop harvested by 2,114 producers had a gross farm
value of $286,431,814. Value added in marketing, processing and transportation
increased the value by $85,709,823 for a total value of $372,141,637.
Rice acreage in Louisiana is expected to increase by 5,000 to 10,000
acres in 1998. As in 1997 tight world supplies of rice are expected to
keep rice prices firm. Most of this acreage increase is expected to occur
in northeast Louisiana where acreage shifts follow commodity prices.
In 1997, 22 sod farms cultivated 3,188 acres of fine turfgrasses. Sod acreage was up 9%. Gross farm sales were estimated at $10,631,980. About 60% of the sod acreage in Louisiana is centipedegrass. The remaining acreage is divided among St. Augustine, Bermudas and zoysias, in that order. With new construction improving, our sod markets continue to hold a better price. Markets are expected to improve as construction increases. Marketing is a limiting factor in the industry. Several new farms should have strong sales in 1998.
SOYBEANS
The 1997 crop was a very good one, but well below the record
crop of last year. A somewhat wetter, cooler than normal season interfered
with planting. For best yields April and May planting is ideal. Too many
acres were planted in June and July. Those Group IV and Group V varieties
which were planted on time yielded well. Varieties planted late caught
a late season drought and only produced half a crop. Aerial blight and
stem canker problems were fewer than usual, but charcoal rot, cercospora
leaf blight and root knot nematodes were more troublesome than normal.
Southern green stinkbugs again gave the later maturing varieties some problems
and contributed to green bean syndrome.
The 6,310 soybean producers in the state increased the acreage to 1.36 million, up by 250,000 acres from last year. Harvested acreage was up because of favorable prices and because wet weather in March and April prevented the planting of corn. Average yields were 28.8 bushels per acre, and total production was 39 million bushels. The gross farm value increased to $268.5 million, the best since the crop of 1990.
In 1997 sugarcane was grown on 412,225 acres by 784 producers
in 23 Louisiana parishes. An estimated 379,247 acres were harvested for
sugar, with a total production of 1,202,939 tons of sugar. Sugar production
per harvested acre was 6,344 pounds, and production per acre grown was
5,836 pounds. Individual parish reports indicate total acres grown and
production per acre grown. Farm value in parish reports is 61% of the total
sugar value, with the remainder going to milling and marketing.
Total sugar production in Louisiana for 1997 set a new record, reflecting
both the record acreage grown and outstanding production per acre. A mild
winter followed by a cool spring resulted in excellent stands in most fields.
Abundant rainfall through mid summer helped growth. In late summer, growth
was checked by dry weather in some areas. Low rainfall in September and
October resulted in good sugar buildup in the first part of the harvest
season and provided excellent conditions for the early harvest. The absence
of severe freezes permitted growers to deliver cane with a high sugar content
to the mills in the latter part of the harvest season.
Gross farm income from sugar and molasses was $295,930,308 for 1997.
About 22,355 acres of sweet potatoes were harvested in Louisiana in 1997, approximately 1,000 less than in1996. The per acre yield was an estimated 321 bushels, down 8% from 1996. Total production was down 11% to 7.2 million bushels. The number of producers dropped from 319 to 296. The average acreage planted was about 76.
West Carroll Parish reported the largest acreage, 6,000, with an average yield of 340 bushels an acre. About 53% of the state's acreage is in West Carroll, Morehouse and Franklin parishes.
The gross farm value was an estimated $54,314,319 using $11.00 per bushel farm gate price for No. 1's, and $2.00 per bushel for canners. Value added is determined by the increase in value of harvested potatoes that are washed, graded, packed and shipped. It reflects the F.O.B. price for No. 1's using $11.00 per box ($13.20 per bushel) for the F.O.B. price. Value added also includes economic factors included in processing and marketing canned sweet potatoes. The estimated total value of the crop was about $104,000,000.
Sweet potato acreage has leveled off at about 23,000 and should remain at that level for 1998.
Tobacco was harvested from only 3 acres by 10 producers in 1997. Average yield was 1,000 pounds an acre, up slightly from the 950 pounds an acre in 1996. At an average price of $3.45 per pound, the gross farm income was $10,350 in 1997. Total production was only 3,000 pounds, down sharply from the 12,350 pounds produced in 1996. The drop in acreage accounted for the production drop.
The Louisiana commercial vegetable industry involves 2,600 growers in 52 parishes who produced more than 50 different vegetable crops on 10,280 acres for a total gross farm value of $31.8 million. The leading parish in commercial vegetable production is Plaquemines, with a gross farm value of $3.6 million, followed by Tangipahoa with $3.15 million. Plaquemines growers produce Creole tomatoes and a number of other vegetables for the wholesale and direct sales markets. Tangipahoa growers produce bell peppers, cucumbers and cabbages for the wholesale market.
Tomatoes were the leading vegetable crop in Louisiana in 1997
with a gross farm value of $6.1 million involving 390 producers on 540
acres. More than 2,000 acres of southern peas are produced for the local
market with a farm value of $3.3 million and involving 790 growers. Watermelons
are produced on 2,900 acres with a gross farm value of $2.8 million.
Melons are marketed through wholesale markets and peddlers. Commercial
production of mustard greens for direct sales and local retail sales has
a gross farm value of $2.3 million and involves 476 growers on 820 acres.
Some 1,000 acres of cucumbers are produced for the wholesale market as
well as for direct sales for a gross farm value of $2.9 million. Sweet
corn for local sales is produced by more than 400 growers on 1,100 acres
for a gross farm value of $1.5 million.
The commercial vegetable acreage in Louisiana has decreased from
16,000 acres to 10,000 acres in the last year. The weather and low prices
have dealt Louisiana commercial producers some severe blows the last few
years.
Several farmers' markets operate successfully and provide
a good outlet for farmers. Several growers operate their own roadside
markets, providing an outlet for their produce at premium prices. Some
rely on local retail businesses, such as supermarkets, roadside stands
and peddlers, for their market outlets.
Past ventures into commercial vegetables have met with more
failures than successes. A large scale sweet potato producer in northeastern
Louisiana had success with fall cabbage in 1997. Interest in tomato production
in northwestern Louisiana has declined because of disease problems and
low prices.
COMMERCIAL GREENHOUSE
VEGETABLES
In 1997, 46 producers grew greenhouse tomatoes in 5.6 acres of greenhouses, up slightly from the 1996 production estimates. Two farms grew cucumbers. Distribution of the industry was statewide, and sales were to in-state markets. All greenhouse produce is for fresh market sales, and much is sold retail by growers. Estimated gross farm value of Louisiana greenhouse vegetables was $1,102,382. Essentially all production is tomatoes. A significant expansion (18%) of this industry occurred during the 1996-97 season because of its promotion by the LSU Agricultural Center. Continued expansion is expected.
Wheat was harvested from 105,328 acres by 461 producers, a decrease from 130,215 acres harvested in 1996. Yields for 1997 averaged 41.74 bushels per acre, a decrease from 43.27 bushels per acre harvested in 1996. A wet spring and high disease pressure in some areas of the state reduced wheat yields in 1997 compared to those reported in 1996. Total production in 1997 was 4,396,562 bushels. This was down substantially from the 5,634,676 bushels harvested in 1996. The gross farm value of the 1997 crop was estimated at $15,387,970, down dramatically from the 1996 crop valued at $25,356,048. The lower gross farm value was caused by less acreage, lower yields and less favorable wheat prices in 1997 than in 1996.
| Animal | Gross Farm Income | Value Added | Total Value |
| Cattle & Calves | 256,810,371 | 28,249,141 | 285,059,512 |
| Horses | 38,016,300 | 83,255,697 | 121,271,997 |
| Milk | 112,120,572 | 173,786,886 | 285,907,458 |
| Poultry | 388,248,826 | 376,187,348 | 764,436,174 |
| Rabbits | 1,136,542 | 113,650 | 1,250,192 |
| Ostrich/Ratite | 2,071,500 | --------- | 2,071,500 |
| Quail/Pheasant | 102,550 | --------- | 102,550 |
| Sheep | 2,312,145 | 208,093 | 2,520,238 |
| Swine | 11,029,881 | 2,647,172 | 13,677,053 |
| Exotic Animals | 381,500 | --------- | 381,500 |
| Total | 812,230,187 | 664,447,987 | 1,476,678,174 |
| Commodity | Gross Farm Income | Value Added | Total Value |
| Aquaculture | 159,498,612 | 103,674,098 | 263,172,710 |
| Freshwater Fisheries | 24,286,865 | 20,643,835 | 44,930,700 |
| Marine Fisheries | 330,611,869 | 314,081,276 | 644,693,145 |
| Fur Animals | 3,897,064 | --------- | 3,897,064 |
| Alligators (wild) | 3,805,785 | 1,902,892 | 5,708,677 |
| Hunting Lease Ent. | 29,140,495 | 1,457,024 | 30,597,519 |
| Total | 553,898,991 | 441,759,125 | 995,658,116 |
| Commodity | Gross Farm Income | Value Added | Total Value |
| Cotton | 357,395,345 | 35,739,534 | 393,134,879 |
| Feed Grain Crops | 142,573,871 | 22,227,000 | 164,800,871 |
| Forestry
|
1,165,901,862 | 4,103,974,552 | 5,269,876,414 |
| Fruit Crops | 11,590,502 | 1,159,024 | 12,749,526 |
| Greenhouse Vegetables | 1,102,382 | 121,257 | 1,223,639 |
| Hay, sold | 25,720,000 | 2,829,200 | 28,549,200 |
| Home Gardens | 119,757,918 | --------- | 119,757,918 |
| Nursery Stocks &
Ornamentals |
106,964,750 | 54,552,023 | 161,516,773 |
| Peanuts | 371,504 | 37,150 | 408,654 |
| Pecans | 7,575,511 | 757,551 | 8,333,062 |
| Rice | 286,431,814 | 85,709,823 | 372,141,637 |
| Sod Production | 10,631,980 | 7,973,985 | 18,605,965 |
| Soybeans | 268,448,328 | 26,845,000 | 295,293,328 |
| Sugarcane | 295,930,308 | 189,395,390 | 485,325,698 |
| Sweet Potatoes | 54,314,319 | 50,633,635 | 104,947,954 |
| Tobacco | 10,350 | 1,139 | 11,489 |
| Vegetables,
Commercial |
31,788,300 | 15,900,000 | 47,688,300 |
| Wheat | 15,387,970 | 1,692,677 | 17,080,647 |
| Total | 2,901,897,014 | 4,599,548,940 | 7,501,445,954 |
|
|
Gross Farm Income | Value Added | Total Value |
| 1993 | $728,321,029 | $663,071,369 | $1,391,392,398 |
| 1994 | $798,092,425 | $660,605,441 | $1,458,697,866 |
| 1995 | $742,028,684 | $670,092,845 | $1,412,121,529 |
| 1996 | $715,025,048 | $657,684,357 | $1,372,709,405 |
| 1997 | $812,230,187 | $664,447,987 | $1,476,678,174 |
|
|
Gross Farm Income | Value Added | Total Value |
| 1993 | $2,187,364,547 | $3,631,713,860 | $5,819,078,407 |
| 1994 | $2,610,898,985 | $3,943,808,091 | $6,554,707,076 |
| 1995 | $2,696,589,989 | $4,506,892,746 | $7,203,482,735 |
| 1996 | $3,047,596,347 | $3,355,400,773 | $6,402,997,120 |
| 1997 | $2,901,897,014 | $4,599,548,940 | $7,501,445,954 |
|
|
Gross Farm Income | Value Added | Total Value |
| 1993 | $379,316,860 | $327,560,291 | $706,877,151 |
| 1994 | $480,021,255 | $434,595,808 | $914,617,063 |
| 1995 | $498,145,141 | $404,469,723 | $902,614,864 |
| 1996 | $481,135,910 | $364,414,921 | $845,550,831 |
| 1997 | $553,898,991 | $441,759,125 | $795,658,116 |
|
|
Gross Farm Income | Value Added | Total Value |
| 1993 | $3,295,002,436 | $4,622,345,520 | $7,917,347,956 |
| 1994 | $3,889,012,665 | $5,039,009,340 | $8,928,022,005 |
| 1995 | $3,936,763,814 | $5,581,455,314 | $9,518,219,128 |
| 1996 | $4,243,757,305 | $4,377,500,051 | $8,621,257,356 |
| 1997 | $4,268,026,192 | $5,705,756,052 | $9,973,782,244 |
- The gross value of commodities reported in the parish tables was computed
on the basis of the average per unit prices listed below. Gross values
shown in the summary tables and the narrative discussion of animal and
plant products are not necessarily a summation of all parish values.
Where official numbers are available for the entire state (such as livestock
population, fish catch, acres of a crop harvested and gross value), these
are used in the place of estimates in the summary tables and discussion.
Animal Commodities
Commodity
Unit
1997 Price
Steer Calves
300-400 lbs.
cwt.
90.500
400-500 lbs.
cwt.
84.000
500-600 lbs.
cwt.
80.000
Heifer Calves
300-400 lbs.
cwt.
77.750
400-500 lbs.
cwt.
74.500
500-600 lbs.
cwt.
69.300
Yearling Cattle
600-700 lbs.
cwt.
69.200
700-800 lbs
cwt.
70.500
Cow-Calf Pairs
pair
650.000
Cull Cows cwt. 34.500
Cull Bulls cwt. 43.600
Dairy
Milk Cows
head
880.00
Milk (After Deductions)
cwt.
14.100
Milk (Goat)
cwt.
22.00
Horses
Horses (2 yr. Quarter and other
stock horse breeds)
head
2000.00
Horses (Thoroughbreds - 2 yr.) head
5000.00
Brood Mares
(Quarter-Paints, etc.)
head
2500.00
Thoroughbreds (Mares)
head
4000.00
Stallions (Quarters, etc.)
head
10000.00
Thoroughbreds (Stallions)
head
50000.00
Pleasure Horses
head
1500.00
Poultry
Breeder Flocks
doz.
1.500
Chickens, Cull Hens
lb.
0.250
Eggs
doz.
0.680
Commercial Broilers
lb.
0.400
Sheep
Wool
cwt.
53.800
Slaughter Lambs
head
108.000
Feeder Lambs
head
74.940
Show Lambs
head
250.00
Stocker Sheep
head
46.00
Cull Sheep
head
35.00
Slaughter Goats
head
100.000
Stocker Goats
head
35.000
Cull goats
head
10.000
Swine
Show Pigs
head
200.000
Feeder Pigs
head
60.000
Slaughter Hogs
head
54.000
Culls (sows, boars)
head
38.400
Rabbits
Fryers
lb.
0.800
Does
each
15.000
Ratite and other Exotic Fowl
Ostrich (12 mo.)
each
500.000
Emu (12 mo.)
each
100.000
Rhea (12 mo.)
each
50.000
Quail (Breeding stock)
each
2.00
FISHERIES AND WILDLIFE COMMODITIES
AQUACULTURE
Commodity
Unit
1997 Price
Crawfish (Farm)
lb.
0.570
Catfish (Farm)
lb.
0.690
Minnows
lb.
3.000
Fishbait
lb.
6.000
Alligators (Farm)
ft.
14.000
Oysters
sack
16.000
Soft-shell Crabs
doz.
18.000
FRESHWATER FISHERIES
Crawfish (Wild)
lb.
0.520
Catfish (Wild)
lb.
0.500
Buffalo
lb.
0.250
Gar
lb.
1.000
Other Finfish
MARINE FISHERIES
Shrimp (heads on)
lb.
2.020
Shrimp (heads off)
lb.
2.970
Menhaden
lb.
0.060
Crabs
lb.
0.600
Commercial Finfish
lb.
0.850
Inshore Marine Finfish
lb.
0.550
Offshore Marine Finfish
lb.
2.300
Blue Fin Tuna
lb.
4.750
Yellow Fin Tuna
lb.
2.600
Swordfish
lb.
2.750
Snapper, red
lb.
1.750
Snapper, Vermilion
lb.
1.800
Shark, unclassified
lb.
1.400
Spotted Sea Trout
lb.
1.000
Mullet, black
lb.
1.100
Drum, black
lb.
0.600
Grouper, all
lb.
2.300
FUR ANIMALS
ALLIGATORS (Wild)
ft.
18.00
HUNTING LEASE ENTERPRISES
acre
3.00
HONEY lb. 0.74
PLANT COMMODITIES
Commodity
Unit
1997 Price
Cotton
Lint
lb.
0.680
Seed
lb.
0.057
Forestry
Christmas Trees
Christmas Trees Wholesale Trees Sold
12.00
Christmas Trees Retail
Trees Sold
27.50
Pine Straw
Bale (40 lb.)
4.00
Fire Wood
Cord (face)
125.00
Forest Seedlings
Pine
1,000
35.00
Hardwood
1,000
175.00
Fruits
Blackberries
pints
1.000
Blueberries
lb.
1.000
Citrus
Navels
bu.
12.00
Satsumas
bu.
6.00
Other Citrus
bu.
8.00
Figs lb. 1.00
Mayhaws lb. 0.90
Muscadines tons 250.00
Peaches bu. 15.00
Pears bu. 7.00
Strawberries flat 10.00
Feed Grains
Corn (Field)
bu.
2.550
Grain Sorghum
cwt.
4.600
Oats
bu.
1.700
Greenhouse Vegetables
Tomatoes
lb.
1.000
Cucumbers
lb.
1.000
Hay, Sold
Alfalfa
ton
100.00
Grass
ton
50.00
Home Gardens 322.00
Nursery Crops (Commercial)
Fruit & Nut Trees
acre
8000.00
Floraculture & Bedding Plants acre
20000.00
Woody Ornamentals
acre
8000.00
Foliage Plants
acre
8000.00
Other Oilseed
Canola
bu
11.500
Sunflowers (for oil)
cwt
8.500
Sunflowers (confectionery)
cwt
10.500
Peanuts lb. 0.310
Pecans
Improved
lb.
0.750
Native
lb.
0.450
Rice cwt 10.000
Sod Production acre 3335.00
Soybeans bu. 6.90
Sugarcane
Sugar (Raw)
lbs
0.120
Molasses
gal
0.110
Sweet Potatoes
Canning
bu. (50 lb.)
2.000
Fresh
bu.(50 lb.)
11.000
Tobacco lb. 3.450
Vegetables - Commercial
Beets
doz. bunches
4.500
Broccoli (Fresh)
carton (20 lb.)
5.500
Cabbage (Fresh)
Sack (50 lb.)
4.000
Cabbage (Processing slaw)
ton
160.000
Cantaloupe
carton (40 lb.)
12.000
Carrots
doz. bunches
4.500
Cauliflower (Fresh)
carton (20 lb.)
8.500
Collards (Fresh)
doz. bunches
5.000
Collards (Processing)
ton
100.000
Cucumber
bu. (50 lb.)
10.000
Cucumber (Pickling)
bu. (50 lb.)
3.000
Eggplant
bu. (33 lb.)
8.000
Garlic
lb.
2.000
Irish Potatoes
cwt.
20.000
Irish Potatoes (Proc. Chips)
cwt.
6.000
Lima Beans (Fresh)
bu. (32 lb.)
25.000
Lima Beans (Processing Dry)
cwt.
5.000
Mirliton
lb.
1.500
Mustard (Fresh)
doz. bunches
5.000
Okra (Fresh)
bu.
20.000
Onions bag
(50 lb.)
15.000
Onions, Green
lb.
1.250
Parsley
doz. bunches
6.500
Peppers
Banana
bu. (25 lb.)
8.000
Bell
bu. (28 lb.)
7.000
Cayenne (Processing)
cwt.
25.000
Chili - Anaheim (Fresh)
bu. (25 lb.)
10.000
Hungarian Wax (Fresh)
bu. (25 lb.)
8.000
Italian (Processing)
cwt.
30.000
Jalapeno (Fresh)
bu. (25 lb.)
12.000
Jalapeno (Processing)
cwt.
20.000
Sport (Processing)
cwt.
30.000
Tabasco Green (Processing)
cwt.
59.000
Tabasco Red (Processing)
cwt.
70.000
Yellow Hots
bu. (25 lb.)
12.000
Pumpkin (Fresh)
cwt.
20.000
Pumpkin, Cushaw
cwt.
15.000
Radish
doz. bunches
3.500
Shallots
doz. bunches
2.500
Snap Beans (Fresh)
bu. (30 lb.)
15.000
Southern Peas (Fresh)
bu. (24 lb.)
20.000
Spinach (Fresh)
bu. (25 lb.)
4.000
Squash (Fresh)
Yellow Squash
cwt.
16.000
Zucchini Squash
bu. (45 lb.)
12.000
Winter Squash
bu. (45 lb.)
15.000
Squash (Processing)
Yellow Squash
cwt.
11.00
Sweet Corn (Fresh)
doz. ears
2.000
Tomatoes (Field)
lug (20 lb.)
12.000
Tomatoes (Green Mature)
box (25 lb.)
7.000
Turnips (Fresh)
doz. bunches
5.000
Watermelon
cwt.
6.000
Wheat
bu.
3.500
Back to the Ag Summary