Dr. Mike Strain joins the show to share updates on Louisiana’s agriculture and fire prevention efforts. He began by celebrating the abundance of certified Louisiana seafood, especially shrimp and the upcoming crawfish season. With over 360,000 acres of farmed crawfish and favorable weather, the state anticipates a strong harvest with larger crawfish and lower prices, potentially around $2.34 per pound. Louisiana leads the nation in aquaculture, including oysters and crawfish, which are vital to its economy.
Strain reflected on the devastating 2023 drought, one of the worst in over a century, which dried up 100,000 acres of crawfish ponds and severely impacted water supplies. The drought also contributed to massive wildfires, including the Tiger Island fire, which burned over 35,000 acres. Firefighting efforts were intense, involving aircraft, helicopters, and ground crews, with operations costing tens of thousands of dollars per drop of fire retardant.
He emphasized the complexity and coordination required in wildfire management, noting the importance of water trucks and the challenge of underground fires that can reignite weeks later. Louisiana has seen over 500 fires this year, with recent ones caused by arson and careless trash burning. Strain urged residents to stay vigilant during Fire Prevention Week.
He also touched on environmental concerns following the Smitty’s industrial fire, which released chemicals into the air and water. Testing showed no excessive heavy metals in surrounding soil, and ongoing water and wildlife monitoring is underway, especially in the Tangipahoa River.
Finally, Strain discussed the logging industry’s recovery post-fire, noting that while 65,000 acres were lost, the overall impact was limited given Louisiana’s 15 million acres of forest. Some affected lands are being rehabilitated and sold for future use.