This month, Leadership EXCEL took a journey through the vibrant agricultural landscape of our region. The agriculture focused day showcased the ingenuity, hard work, and rich traditions of our local agricultural community. Here’s a recap of their day!
A Morning at Lacassine Rail Facility
The day began with a tour of the Lacassine Rail Facility, a pivotal hub for grain export. Leaders witnessed firsthand local products ontribute significantly to both the local and global food supply chain. The facility’s advanced logistics and export operations were a testament to the sophisticated infrastructure supporting our agricultural sector.
Discovering Craftsmanship at Bayou Rum
Next, the group visited Bayou Rum, a state-of-the-art distillery renowned for its high-quality rum that reaches customers across the country and around the world. The tour offered a behind-the-scenes look at the distillation process, from locally sourced sugarcane to the final bottled product. This visit highlighted the intricate craftsmanship and dedication that go into producing each bottle, making it a standout in the global spirits market.
A Closer Look at Tall Grass Farm
Tall Grass Farms, a locally owned crawfish farm, was the next stop. Here, leaders learned about the lifecycle and harvesting techniques of crawfish, a staple in our local cuisine. The farm’s sustainable practices and commitment to quality provided an insightful look into the hard work that supports this beloved local delicacy.
Insights at Jennings City Hall
The group then gathered at Jennings City Hall for a lunch and learn session featuring Chip Perrin, co-owner of Coastal Plains Meat Company. Perrin shared valuable insights into the meat processing industry, emphasizing the importance of local meat production and its impact on the community. His talk underscored the challenges and triumphs of maintaining high standards in meat quality and safety. He also spoke of his personal experience in Leadership Vermilion and how a conversation born in that group led to the beginnings of Coastal Plains Meat Company.
Wild Encounters at The Gator Chateau
In the afternoon, leaders had the unique opportunity to visit The Gator Chateau in Jennings. Here, they not only learned about alligator conservation efforts but also had the chance to hold baby alligators.
Supporting Local Farmers: Equipment and Drought Relief
The final educational session featured presentations from Sunshine Quality Solutions, a local equipment dealer, and a representative from the Small Business Association. Discussions focused on drought relief programs available for farmers and agriculture industry partners, providing crucial information and support to those affected by challenging weather conditions.
A Festive Finale: Crawfish Boil and Social
The day concluded with crawfish boil and social gathering with Leadership EXCEL Alumni. This event offered a relaxed environment for leaders to reflect on their experiences, share insights, and foster connections with alumni who have previously benefited from the program. The camaraderie and delicious food were the perfect end to a day filled with learning and community spirit.
Agriculture Day for the Leadership EXCEL class was more than just a series of tours and talks; it was a deep dive into the heart of our region’s agricultural industry. The experiences and knowledge gained will undoubtedly empower these leaders to better support and advocate for our local agricultural community. From the fields to the facilities, from the farmers to the processors, this day highlighted the integral role agriculture plays in sustaining and enriching our parishes.
