S.A.R.D.I.

Youth, Agriculture & Community

Ag, Health, Nutrition, and Technology:

The SARDI agriculture programs are designed to support and improve agricultural practices, health, rural livelihoods, and food security through education, training, and research. These programs provide farmers and other community members with the knowledge and resources they need to adapt to challenges and improve their practices. Key aspects of agriculture programs are:

Focus on Informal Education

Agriculture programs use various methods, including workshops, field demonstrations, one-on-one consultations, and online platforms, to disseminate information, and promote learning.

Research-based Knowledge

Agriculture programs connect research findings to practical applications, helping farmers adopt new technologies, and improve their practices.

Community Engagement

Agriculture agents work with farmers, local communities, and other stakeholders to address specific needs and, promote community development.

Diverse Audiences

Agriculture programs cater to a range of audiences, including farmers, youth, and families, often with a focus on underserved populations.

Importance of Partnerships

Extension programs often collaborate with other organizations,including government agencies, research institutions, and private partners, tomaximize their impact.

Agriculture Programs:

Drone Certification Program

• Drone Rules and FAA Regulations

• National Airspace System (NAS)

• Reading Sectional Charts

• Airport Operations

• Weather and Micrometeorology

Youth Community Gardening Program

The goal of the SARDI Youth Gardening Program is to promote healthy eating habits and to provide educational support to the youth that we serve regarding basic agriculture and gardening practices. SARDI sponsors and provides agricultural support to numerous community partners that range from schools to non-profit organizations. Students are given the opportunity to learn basic agriculture and gardening practices that promote healthy eating habits and gain knowledge of the agriculture industry. SARDI sponsors and provides agricultural support to numerous community partners that range from schools to non-profit organizations.

_{Photo: Grolee Elementary School}

Port Barre Middle School

Lawtell Elementary School

Opelousas Middle School

Community Gardening Program

SARDI provides assistance to community garden leaders and home gardeners to create spaces where vegetables, fruit and herbs can be grown for human consumption especially in areas where grocery stores are limited. These gardens are established between SARDI and community agencies, non-profit organizations, churches, municipalities, neighborhood associations, and private landowners. By providing educational opportunities, the program makes fresh produce more accessible, promotes healthy lifestyles, beautifies deplorable neighborhood spaces, and aids in cleaning up the environment. Community members are provided with support on healthy eating initiatives and producing alternative food sources. SARDI sponsors and provides support to several community gardens within the service areas.

Peaks of Opelousas

Town of Melville

HOPE for Opelousas

Boys & Girls Club of Opelousas and Ville Platte

Economic Development Program

Provide an educational program that will equip participants with general knowledge and understanding of what's needed to own a small business as well as sustain it. Start to finish program.

Farm Operation Assistance Program

Small or mid-size farmers and disadvantaged farmers are provided with assistance through connections to government agencies such as the USDA NRCS which provides farmers with support that ranges from farm income, disaster assistance, and conserving natural resources. SARDI also provides assistance and resources to farmers in the following areas: