AgMagic, the LSU AgCenter’s interactive exhibit about Louisiana agriculture, returns to Parker Coliseum on LSU’s campus May 2-7, 2011.

Those who visit will learn where food and fiber come from and about agriculture.

“It’s designed to help visitors see the connection between crops in the field and the products in the grocery store and the clothes we wear and between the trees in the forests and the wood products in our everyday lives,” said Frankie Gould, LSU AgCenter communications director.

AgMagic is free and open to pre-registered school groups during the week from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. The public is invited on May 7, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.

The Journey

AgMagic is divided into seven sections that focus on different aspects of agriculture in Louisiana. Each section has educational and interactive components that will attract children’s attention and teach them something valuable.

– "Animals Produce for You" will be an educational area that includes chickens, pigs, goats, sheep, horses, dairy cattle and beef cattle. It will give participants a chance to see what animals eat and the products the livestock industry provides. Children also will have an opportunity to see eggs hatch in an incubator.

– "Plant Products" will include a look at crops such as cotton, rice and sugarcane from seeds to mature plants. It also will provide a look at how vegetables are grown and how insects contribute to the process. Specialized educational signs will allow visitors to learn about the origin of products they consume, such as that ketchup is made from tomatoes.

– "Farming the Waters" will feature catfish, crawfish, alligators, turtles and ornamental fish, such as koi. Viewing stations will allow visitors to see both habitats and products, and visitors will learn about aquaculture and how you "farm" aquatic life.

– The "World of Wonder" will focus on forests, forest products and wildlife. The exhibit will illustrate in a natural-type setting the abundance of natural resources found in our state and offer an opportunity for a “walk through the forest.” Visitors will learn what it takes to protect our environment and that the forest products industry is the largest agricultural segment in Louisiana. This exhibit also will include a chance for visitors to view the root system of a tree and to visit with Smokey Bear.

– The Louisiana 4-H section will highlight the youth development program and its learn-by-doing philosophy. Young people can learn about ATV safety and Louisiana’s wetlands. Louisiana 4-H is an educational program of the LSU AgCenter designed to help young people develop leadership, citizenship and life skills.

– The popular “Bugs Rule” area will demonstrate the role insects play in agriculture and the environment. It includes magnifying lenses to allow participants to view bugs up close and a greenhouse filled with plants and butterflies. Young people can see a giant mosquito, hissing cockroaches and other interesting specimens. It’s also the place where kids will be invited to do insect or bug rubbings.

– A new section in AgMagic is “Farm Gate to Dinner Plate.” Children will be introduced to food science and can learn about bad bacteria. They also will have an opportunity to help build a “pizza” using Louisiana agricultural products.

In addition to those exhibits, the "Body Walk," an interactive educational exhibit designed to combat childhood obesity, will be available in the 4-H Mini Farm adjacent to Parker Coliseum. Sponsored by the LSU AgCenter and the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Foundation, it is part of the overall program know as Smart Bodies.

With all the interaction with animals and the hands-on items throughout AgMagic, visitors will also learn about the importance of washing your hands and prohibiting the spread of germs at the hand washing station at the end of the tour.

The Education

AgMagic is in its seventh year. Teachers have been returning with students year after year. A 2008 survey of teachers that toured AgMagic showed the positive effects that the exhibit had on their students. A majority of the teachers agreed that their students had a better understanding of the importance and the diversification of Louisiana agriculture after visiting.

Teachers also said the event offered relevant information, and they used the supporting materials they received at AgMagic in their classrooms. Many teachers praised the tour for being so interactive.

Magic Around the State

LSU AgCenter offers similar events around the state. AgMagic made a stop at the State Fair of Louisiana in Shreveport last fall.

Ag Alley is held in conjunction with the Ag Expo in Monroe. That event is designed to teach children about where their food comes from and introduces them to Louisiana’s agribusiness industry. The exhibit and tour combine several “alleys” filled with information such as horticulture, crops, livestock and horses. The message at Ag Alley helps to reinforce science lessons the children learn in their classrooms.

Students in other parts of the state can go on an adventure with the program Ag Adventures. This event also offers an opportunity for students to see and pet animals, learn about wildlife and develop an appreciation for agriculture.

Many parishes offer an Ag Day where children can gain a better understanding of Louisiana agriculture.

The LSU AgCenter reaches around 20,000 students each year with these types of educational programs.

Tobie Blanchard