Miss-Lou Regional Tourism Summit in Oak Grove, Aug. 9-11

Join us in Oak Grove to learn how to cluster agricultural, historical, culinary and nature-based events to increase tourism. Special guest Holly Beaumier from Florence, S.C. will be the first speaker on August 9th. She will introduce the idea that all destinations need to be connected to their region and a regional brand should tie destinations together. “Florence sits at the junction of I-95 and offers lots of overnight lodging, but depends on the rest of the region for reasons to stay more than one day,” said Beaumier. That prompted Beaumier and other tourism professionals in the region to seek assistance in mapping their assets. During her presentation she will share success stories on how they created a cluster and branded the region.

The summit is $150 or $75 for one day. Click here for registration.

Louisiana Young Ag Producers Program

This week young agriculture producers from across Louisiana are attending the Louisiana Young Ag Producers Program. Young ag producers stay on the LSU campus and are given a variety of learning experiences to prepare them for their future in agriculture.

This year the producers asked to learn more about agritourism. The producers are shown discussing how they will incorporate agritourism in their farming operations with their existing assets.

To learn more about this exciting program, contact Dr. Brad Leger with the LSU AgCenter.

These bright ag producers came up with some great ideas.

Watermelons-Great Choice for Summer Income

Growing and selling watermelons for extra summer income is popular in 15 parishes in Louisiana. Roadside stands and Farmers Markets had a great supply for the July 4th weekend.

Click here to read about 2011 harvest.

Log onto the LSU AgCenter website to learn more about planting and best varieties.

QR Codes and Agritourism

Jane Eckert's latest article, "Smart Farms are Thinking Smart Phones," is a great read. Jane explains the new "QR" or quick response coding. She also provides links to farmers who are already using the new phone technology to market their businesses.

To use this technology individuals must have a reader application installed on their smart phone. Point your phone at the QR code and receive immediate information. It's FREE and right at your fingertips.


Click here to read Jane's article.

Arkansas Agritourism Conference

Our neighbors in Arkansas will be hosting their first Agritourism Conference on August 18-19, 2011 at the Holiday Inn Airport Conference Center, 3201 Bankhead Drive, Little Rock, AR.

For more details visit, http://www.aragriculture.org/agritourism/agritourism_conference_flyer.pdf

Farm Security Checklist - eXtension

Farm Security Checklist - eXtension

FREE Facebook Marketing How-To-Class in Ruston

In today's world, business owners must use every tactic available to market themselves. If you live in North Louisiana, there is a FREE class entitled, "5 Steps to a Successful Facebook Business Page,"  being offered at the Louisiana Tech Enterprise Center on July 12th from 9-11 A.M.

The Louisiana Tech Enterprise Center is located at 509 W. Alabama, Ruston.

Pre-registration is suggested. Call 318-797-5144 or email lsbdc.lsus@lsbdc.org by July 10.

Hurry, seating is limited.