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:

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

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:

  • Small animal production systems
  • Small farm preparation and set-up
  • Greenhouse/Hoop House operations
  • Crop Selections
  • Pest and disease prevention

For more information, please contact:
Kayla M. Fontenot
Assistant Area Agent, St. Landry Parish
Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development Institute (SARDI) | 1209 Diesi Street, Opelousas, LA 70570