Louisiana Produce Farm Rebuilds After Severe Storms

The family operation says recent storms brought needed rain but also major damage across the farm.

ST. LANDRY PARISH, La. (This Week in Louisiana Agriculture) — Recent storms brought much-needed rainfall to parts of Louisiana, but for some farmers, the damage created new challenges heading into the growing season.

Robin Farms, a 42-acre, family-owned produce operation run by Brandt and Jamie Robin, grows a variety of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and flowers, which are sold directly to customers.

Brandt Robin says the rain helped crops, but strong winds reaching nearly 90 miles per hour also knocked down tomato stands across parts of the farm.

Even as the farm recovers, Robin says concerns remain over severe weather and rising fertilizer prices.

However, he says his main concern is that consumers are becoming increasingly disconnected from where their food comes from and the challenges involved in producing it locally.

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Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


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