Bossier City: A Celebration of Homesteading
BOSSIER CITY, La. — The city buzzed with excitement as the LSU AgCenter Red River Research Station welcomed over 1,500 visitors for its second annual Louisiana Homesteader’s Conference, held on October 11 and 12. This vibrant gathering invited anyone interested in homesteading to explore local vendors and participate in enlightening talks about self-sufficiency and farming.
Exploring Homesteading
People from all walks of life attended the conference, each bringing their unique experiences and aspirations. Some participants were seasoned farmers looking to expand their operations, while others were novice homesteaders eager to learn how to make the most out of their backyards. There was a flavor of enthusiasm in the air, as attendees wandered through various stalls showcasing a rich mixture of homemade goods and educational resources.
Vendors Galore
The vendors at the conference added to its lively atmosphere. You could find everything from artisanal cutlery and handcrafted art to fresh mushrooms and wellness products. Among the local vendors was Fiona Benjamin, who has been passionately selling her wellness products since 2020. She often participates in farmers markets and similar events.
“I just want to contribute to the community,” Benjamin explained with a smile, “and provide wellness products that people love while also meeting other vendors.” Fiona’s friendly spirit encapsulated the essence of the event, where connections were fostered and ideas exchanged.
Local Treasures and Unique Offerings
Another vendor, Patty Ebarb, showcased her handmade garden crafts along with an inimitable offering—worms for composting! Yes, you read that right! Ebarb took the time to name each composting worm “Mary,” and attendees could purchase them by cup or by the bin. It was a quirky yet educational experience, and many found her stall irresistible!
Mind-Opening Talks
The conference wasn’t just about shopping; it was also a hub of knowledge with numerous speakers who shared their expertise on various aspects of homesteading. The topics ranged widely—from best irrigation practices for backyard gardens, to maintaining healthy flocks of goats and sheep, all the way to the fascinating world of beekeeping.
Regional director Ronald Strahan had a clear vision for the conference: “There are a lot of YouTube channels with all kinds of crazy information, but nobody gives out a lot of research-based information on how you can homestead.” His commitment to providing science-backed information was evident throughout the event. Attendees could find AgCenter experts at booths and presentations, ensuring they had access to reliable information.
Engaging with the Community
The AgCenter made a visible effort to connect with the community by setting up several booths that featured 4-H programs, LaHouse (an educational program related to housing), and the Sweet Potato Research Station in Chase. They answered questions and educated everyone about the valuable services and research available to them.
Tyler Barlow, an extension agent from Rapides Parish and an enthusiast for sheep and goat husbandry, spoke passionately about the importance of educating the public on agricultural practices. “I hope some visitors that maybe aren’t exposed to more animal agriculture can come out, learn some different things,” Barlow remarked. “It’s all about sharing knowledge.”
A Bright Future for Homesteading
With the evident excitement and interest in homesteading, Strahan expressed hope for future events. He noted, “There’s so much interest in this kind of stuff. We’re trying to bring all the stuff that they’re interested in and have our experts focus on those areas.” Clearly, the dedication to fostering an informed community is just beginning!
The LSU AgCenter Red River Research Station might have wrapped up this year’s Louisiana Homesteader’s Conference, but it has laid a solid foundation for many more gatherings to come. With a community eager to learn, connect, and grow, the future looks bright for homesteading in Bossier City!
