Mardi Gras season is here, and we are just days away from elaborate celebrations breaking out across the country.
You can expect king cakes, vibrant parades and music, and of course, beads!
However, that beloved tradition can also cause major harm, with plastic beads negatively impacting the environment once discarded.
Students at Louisiana State University are looking to change that by developing biodegradable Mardi Gras beads. They found that 3D printing the beads made with plant-based plastic was not enough, and ultimately decided to fill the celebratory necklaces with seeds. Once planted, the roots of the germinating seeds help attract bacteria, promoting a faster breakdown.
So far, LSU researchers have cut down the cost of production from $5 a strand to $0.50. They plan to mass produce their Plant Me Beads for Mardi Gras next year.
From barns to show rings, producers and students say that livestock events offer economic opportunity and life lessons. Let’s take a look at some shows across the southeast in Georgia, Virginia and Louisiana.
March 18, 2026 04:21 PM
·
March 18, 2026 01:35 PM
·
“We knew we were stepping into legendary territory with Chet and Dolly on this one,” said Keith. “It was important to honor the music and spirit, but in our own way.
Held each year in Mercedes, the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show remains a cornerstone event for the region — blending education, competition, and community, even during challenging times for agriculture.
March 17, 2026 12:13 PM
·
Renowned farm broadcaster and friend of RFD-TV, Orion Samuelson, will undoubtedly be remembered for many things, but most of all, his work as a champion of America’s farmers and ranchers will define his legacy.
March 17, 2026 08:12 AM
·
