Producers and MSU experts discuss priorities, updates

BILOXI, Miss. -- Mississippi State University researchers and specialists heard suggestions from coastal area agricultural producers and industry leaders about the research and education they need from the university in 2020.

The MSU Coastal Research and Extension Center Producer Advisory Council meeting was held on Feb. 27 in Biloxi. The annual meeting helps the university allocate time and resources to the most important issues facing Mississippi's agricultural producers and related industries.

“Thank you for taking the time away from your businesses to be with us today,” said James Henderson, head of the Coastal Research and Extension Center. “We will make the most of this day for you. It's going to be a valuable day for you and for all of us.”

Ideas and input from advisory council participants guide how Experiment Station and MSU Extension Service personnel plan research and educational efforts.

“Your being here today is appreciated,” said Extension Director Gary Jackson. “The information we get during this meeting is one of the ways we know what you need.”

Producers from nine commodity groups met in breakout sessions to discuss their groups' priorities.

Beekeepers reported workshops on queen rearing, hive inspection policies and nutrition labels will be held soon.

Commercial ornamental and home horticulture representatives recognized the 25th Anniversary of the Mississippi Medallion program. Extension horticulturist and Experiment Station researcher Gary Bachman is developing a book to be released this year. They discussed current research trials, including crape myrtle propagation and native plant propagation. The group discussed the Extension Master Floral Designer program, pointing out the

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