Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry

06/18/2026

Visit Screwworm.gov to report sightings and stay informed.

06/15/2026

Last week, the Program Manager for our Produce Safety team, Kelly Hughes Thompson, traveled to Columbus, Ohio, to attend the Association of Food and Drug Officials Annual Educational Conference (AFDO), where she moderated multiple sessions on produce safety.

The AFDO Annual Educational Conference partners with regional AFDO affiliates to present this learning experience in a different large metropolitan area each year. For five days each June, the AEC is the center of the food safety world for professionals from government, states, academia, consumer groups, and manufacturing. Subject matter experts come ready to share their knowledge. Dozens – yes, dozens – of national and international experts are available on more than 40 topics in the food safety, cannabis, and body art arenas.

This conference provides an excellent opportunity to learn from industry experts, participate in engaging educational sessions, and explore important discussions surrounding produce safety and the future of our programs. Hearing from our colleagues within other state programs and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), who share their diverse perspectives and experiences, sparked new conversations and ideas to bring back to Louisiana.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this conference was the chance to network, collaborate, and reconnect with friends and colleagues from the southern states, as well as partners from the FDA and the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA). Continuing our partnerships, developing new ones, and strengthening our current relationships is an integral part of addressing our challenges, opportunities, and advancing our shared mission of produce safety.

06/14/2026

What does it take to get a Louisiana product on store shelves across the country? A great product. A great story. And the passion to share it with the world. In this behind-the-scenes episode of LDAF's Crawfish Tales, we’re taking you inside a pitch event where Certified Louisiana companies presented their products to buyers from Kroger. Hosted at Second Harvest Food Bank of Southwest Louisiana in Lake Charles, the event gave Certified Louisiana companies the opportunity to connect with retail buyers and showcase the quality, creativity, and innovation found right here in our state. Watch as Louisiana entrepreneurs take the next step toward bringing their products from local businesses to national markets — while continuing to share the stories and traditions that make Louisiana special.

06/12/2026

The and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) have collaborated to launch the Louisiana Forestry Initiative (LFI), a new statewide cost-share program designed to help private landowners improve forest health and wildlife habitat.

Learn more at https://www.ldaf.la.gov/about/news/article/ldaf-and-ldwf-launch-louisiana-forestry-initiative-to-support-private-landowners

06/05/2026

The has issued temporary requirements for the interstate movement of animals following the recent detection of New World screwworm in Texas. This is a proactive order, effective immediately, aimed at early detection and prevention to help protect animal health. Suspected cases must be reported as soon as possible at 225-925-3980 or [email protected].

To read the order, visit: https://www.ldaf.la.gov/about/news/article/order-of-the-state-veterinarian-new-world-screwworm-restrictions-on-interstate-movement-of-animals

06/04/2026

New World Screwworm has been confirmed in Texas. Now is the time to begin extra monitoring of livestock, pets, and captive wildlife for this invasive pest. It is important to note that it does not impact food, and the food supply is safe. If you suspect your animal is infected with screwworm, contact your state animal health official or USDA area veterinarian in charge immediately.

You can read the full press release at https://www.ldaf.la.gov/about/news/article/usda-confirms-presence-of-new-world-screwworm-in-the-united-states

🚨 With the recent detection of New World screwworm in a 3-week-old bovine in Zavala County, TX, USDA urges residents to contact your veterinarian right away if you see any suspicious wounds, maggots, or infestations in your animals or herd.

If you see signs of maggot infestations in live or very recently dead wild animals, especially in areas near the U.S./Mexico border, please call 866-4USDA-WS (866-487-3297) to report it to your local USDA Wildlife Services office.

For more information, visit WWW.SCREWWORM.GOV.

06/03/2026

Every Certified Louisiana business has a story. This one starts in a backyard garden. On this episode of Crawfish Tales, join us in Eunice as we visit Certified Cajun - Cajun Prairie Signature Foods and learn how one family's dream grew into a celebration of Louisiana flavor and culture.

05/29/2026

From a backyard herb garden to a beloved Certified Louisiana brand, Cajun Prairie Signature Foods has built a legacy rooted in family, faith, hospitality, and great food. Their journey is one of perseverance, passion, and a commitment to sharing the flavors and traditions that make Louisiana so special.

Join us for an upcoming episode of Crawfish Tales as we visit Certified Cajun - Cajun Prairie Signature Foods in Eunice and learn how one family’s vision grew into a celebration of Louisiana culture, signature recipes, and “Cooking with Spirit.” Stay tuned for an inspiring story filled with heart, heritage, and plenty of Louisiana flavor! https://www.cajunpsfoods.com

05/26/2026

Today is a day for us to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. This Memorial Day celebrate, honor, remember.

05/22/2026

's Kelly Hughes Thompson, Rachel Steward, and Alaina Pierret were happy to serve as judges at the State of Louisiana 4-H Food Challenge on Wednesday. The kids really rose to the challenge and prepared some great dishes with farm-fresh produce! LDAF's Produce Safety program is proud to partner with LSU AgCenter and Louisiana 4-H to make events like this possible.