AgMagic Welcomes Kids of All Ages to Learn about the Farm and Environment

AgMagic on the River captured the imagination of thousands last week who came to Docville Farm to learn about agriculture and the environment in a fun and interactive way.

"We are proud to host and sponsor AgMagic on the River once again,” said Rita Gue, the president of the Meraux Foundation. “The interactive event not only teaches children about the importance of agriculture but also promotes a sustainable future. We believe that by educating the next generation, we are investing in a brighter future for our community and the world."

Throughout the week, nearly 2,000 students from 29 schools from across the region explored exhibits that linked food and fiber products people use everyday to the forests, field crops, and livestock produced by Louisiana farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners. Featured crops were displayed in various stages of development, allowing students to understand the importance of the relationship between agriculture, the environment, and society.

One such exhibit was a demonstration crawfish pond that showed how crawfish are raised in shallow water where rice is grown and harvested.

On Saturday’s “Family Day,” hundreds more children and their families toured the farm and its exhibits. The day’s activities gave families the opportunity for a shared learning experience, where children and parents alike learned about agricultural techniques, food processing relationships, and environmental protection efforts.  

“Free and open to the public, the event is always a good time for kids of all ages,” said Beth Gambel, the Jefferson Parish Parishchair of the LSU Ag Center. “We are grateful for our sponsors and the more than 160 volunteers who helped make this year so special!”

A highlight of the event was a reptile petting zoo organized by the Wetland Watchers, a nationally recognized school-based service-learning project founded by Harry Hurst Middle School science teacher Barry Guillot. Drawing in students by the hundreds, the exhibit gave students an intimate learning experience with dozens of snake, lizard, and turtle species.  

Wall’s Alligator Farm provided another hit exhibit where attendees got to hold a baby alligator while learning about it.

Some 500 attendees also got to take home a free tree, courtesy of Plant the Parish sponsored by Valero.

Presented annually by the LSU AgCenter, this year’s event was sponsored by the Meraux Foundation, the St. Bernard Parish Office of Tourism and Tourism Commission, Edward Jones Financial Advisor Joey Nieto, Bienville Capital Group:  Emmett Dupas, St Bernard School Board, St Bernard Parish Sheriff, Valero Meraux Refinery, Entergy, Chalmette Refining, Metro Area Horticulture Committee, Hancock Whitney. LSU Ag Center, Jefferson Volunteers for Family and Community, and St Bernard Volunteers for Family and Community.