By Tiffany Flournoy

United States Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force agents arrested Nathan Allen Jump of Athens on Thursday, April 23. The arrest followed a warrant issued by the Second Judicial District Court for molestation of a juvenile and two counts of indecent behavior with juveniles. Jump was booked into the Claiborne Parish Detention Center, where he is being held without bail.

Jump was already on leave from his position as principal of Mount Olive Christian School in Athens following a February 2026 arrest for sexual battery. This most recent arrest resulted from a months-long joint investigation into additional complaints conducted by the Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation.

Sheriff Sam Dowies commended the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation for its work on the case and the U.S. Marshals for apprehending Jump.

Authorities encourage anyone with information regarding Jump to contact the Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office at (318) 927-2011, via its website at http://www.claibornesheriff.org, or the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation at (225) 326-6079.

All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Claiborne Parish is expected to see an active stretch of weather through the end of the week, with multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms possible before drier and more pleasant conditions arrive this weekend, according to the latest National Weather Service forecast.

Wednesday brings a 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after midday. Skies will remain mostly cloudy, with a high near 78 degrees. Winds will start calm before shifting north around 5 mph in the afternoon. Wednesday night will keep the unsettled pattern going, with a continued chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m., then tapering to a slight chance of rain. Overnight lows will fall to around 57 degrees under mostly cloudy skies, with northeast winds near 5 mph.

On Thursday, Claiborne Parish will see a brief break in activity early, followed by another chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Skies remain mostly cloudy with a high near 71 degrees and a 30 percent chance of precipitation. Thursday night will bring another round of scattered showers and thunderstorms, with lows dipping to around 52 degrees and a 50 percent chance of rain.

Friday is expected to be the most active weather day of the week. Showers are likely, with thunderstorms also possible after 1 p.m. Skies will stay mostly cloudy, and temperatures will struggle to reach a high near 64 degrees. The chance of precipitation increases to 70 percent. By Friday night, rain chances continue before gradually tapering off after midnight, with lows around 48 degrees.

Conditions begin to improve heading into the weekend. Saturday will be partly sunny with a high near 68 degrees, followed by mostly clear skies Saturday night and a low around 44 degrees.

Sunday brings a return to sunshine with a pleasant high near 74 degrees and mostly clear conditions continuing into Sunday night with lows around 47 degrees.

The new week starts off on a warm and sunny note Monday, with highs expected to reach near 79 degrees.

Residents are encouraged to stay alert to changing conditions through Friday, as repeated rounds of showers and thunderstorms could impact travel and outdoor activities across Claiborne Parish.

Public safety and law enforcement officials are issuing a warning about a rapidly emerging synthetic opioid threat after new laboratory findings confirmed additional detections across multiple jurisdictions in North Louisiana.

According to the North Louisiana Crime Lab, a dangerous synthetic opioid known as cychlorphine is continuing to spread, reinforcing concerns first identified last month. Officials say the situation is not isolated but instead reflects a developing and expanding drug trend in the region.

Lab analysts report that cychlorphine belongs to a class of synthetic opioids referred to as “orphines” and may be more potent than fentanyl, one of the most dangerous opioids currently impacting communities nationwide. The substance has been found in counterfeit oxycodone tablets, often mislabeled as “M30” or “K56,” creating a significant risk for unsuspecting users who may not realize what they are ingesting.

Authorities emphasize that illicit pills circulating in the community are frequently not what they appear to be. According to the crime lab, most submitted counterfeit tablets tested do not contain the substances they are represented to contain, increasing the danger of accidental overdose.

For law enforcement, officials caution that exposure cases may present symptoms consistent with opioid toxidrome, which can resemble narcotic analgesic impairment. First responders are being advised to remain alert for potentially life-threatening overdose situations linked to these substances.

Public safety officials are also stressing the severe risk to the community, noting that even a single counterfeit pill may be enough to cause a fatal overdose.

The North Louisiana Crime Lab has released an updated law enforcement bulletin with additional details and response guidance as agencies across the region work to track and respond to the emerging threat.

Officials are urging continued vigilance and awareness as the situation develops, emphasizing prevention and public education as critical tools in reducing overdose deaths linked to synthetic opioids.

Community leaders are encouraging residents and supporters to take part in a local fundraising effort aimed at strengthening economic development and preserving the cultural identity of Homer.

Main Street Homer has launched its “Give for Good” campaign, running from April 21 through May 5, 2026, inviting donations to support ongoing revitalization projects across the city of Homer.

According to organizers, the campaign directly supports the organization’s mission to “revitalize Homer through economic development, historic and cultural preservation, and advancement of the arts.”

Main Street Homer officials say contributions will help fund initiatives designed to improve the downtown district, support local businesses, preserve historic structures, and expand cultural and arts programming throughout the community.

The organization emphasized that all donations made during the campaign are tax-deductible and will go toward continuing its community-focused work.

Supporters can contribute online through the Give for Good platform at https://www.giveforgoodnla.org/organization/MainStreetHomer.

Leaders with Main Street Homer expressed appreciation for continued community support, noting that local investment plays a key role in sustaining long-term growth and revitalization efforts.

Residents across Claiborne Parish are encouraged to participate in the campaign and help support efforts to strengthen Homer’s economic future while preserving its historic character.

On July 11 at 9:00 a.m., the LSU AgCenter will host a Mastering Home Food Preservation workshop at the Webster Parish Extension Office in Minden. This educational program serves as an introductory course focused on water-bath canning, a commonly used home food preservation method. The session is designed to emphasize the importance of following research-based food safety guidelines to help prevent foodborne illness and ensure successful preservation outcomes.

The workshop will feature both an in-person lecture and a hands-on demonstration, providing participants with a comprehensive learning experience. During the lecture portion, attendees will receive an overview of water-bath canning principles, including equipment needs, preparation steps, processing times, and safety considerations. The hands-on demonstration will reinforce these concepts through step-by-step instruction, allowing participants to observe proper techniques for creating a home-preserved product.

To encourage engagement, questions and individualized instruction, participation will be limited to 10 individuals. This small group setting allows for meaningful interaction and ample opportunity for participants to gain confidence in their skills. The registration cost for the class is $25, and
participants may sign up by contacting the Webster Extension Office located at 1202 Homer Road at 318-371-1371.

This program aligns with the LSU AgCenter’s mission to deliver practical, science-based education that empowers individuals and families to make informed decisions about food safety, nutrition, and self-sufficiency. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), reasonable accommodations will be provided to ensure accessibility for all participants when requested in advance.

Shakera Williams, DrHSc, MPH
Associate Extension Agent and Webster Parish Chair

A local medical professional is being celebrated after achieving a personal milestone on one of the world’s most prestigious running stages.

Claiborne Memorial Medical Center announced congratulations to Dr. Mark St. Cyr following his performance at the 130th Boston Marathon.

In his seventh appearance at the historic race, Dr. St. Cyr recorded a personal best time of 3:29:36, improving his previous mark by more than four minutes. The finish equates to an average pace of approximately eight minutes per mile across the 26.2-mile course.

Hospital officials praised the achievement as a reflection of discipline, endurance, and dedication, noting that balancing a demanding medical career with elite-level training requires exceptional commitment.

Dr. St. Cyr’s performance placed him among thousands of participants in the internationally recognized marathon, which draws runners from around the world each year.

Claiborne Memorial Medical Center extended public congratulations, calling the accomplishment a point of pride for both the hospital and the Claiborne Parish community.

The achievement adds another highlight to Dr. St. Cyr’s running career and serves as an inspiration for residents across the parish, demonstrating the value of perseverance and long-term dedication to personal goals.

A major milestone for local athletics has put Claiborne Parish in the spotlight, as Homer native Star Thomas has earned an invitation to rookie minicamp with the Tennessee Titans, according to NFL reporter Matt Zenitz.

Thomas’s opportunity marks a significant step toward making history, as he is in position to become the first NFL player from Homer since 1977.

The invitation to rookie minicamp gives Thomas a chance to compete for a roster spot and showcase his skills at the professional level as he begins the next stage of his football career in the NFL.

Local pride quickly followed the announcement, with Homer High School celebrating the achievement on social media, writing:

“And this is what we mean when we say WHY NOT HOMER?! Our students and alumni prove time and time again that it’s a rhetorical question! Congratulations Star!”

The message reflects a long-standing culture of community pride in Homer, where students and alumni are frequently recognized for achievements across academics, athletics, and career paths.

Thomas’s journey to the NFL opportunity represents years of dedication and development, and his upcoming appearance at rookie minicamp will be closely watched by local supporters and football fans across Claiborne Parish.

If successful, Thomas could soon become the first NFL player from the area in nearly five decades — a milestone that would mark a historic moment for both Homer High School and the broader Claiborne Parish community.

For some reason, ever since someone came up with the concept of competition, man has always looked for a way to gain a competitive edge — even if it means cheating!  

In any contest, there are rules and just like records, some feel that rules are made to be broken. Today, we are going to look at some of the worst bass tournament cheaters to ever wet a hook, and how these incidents should be handled.

Years ago, an angler got caught cheating on Lake of the Pines in a bass tournament called the “KYKX Big Bass Splash.” In one tournament when the polygraph examiner questioned if the catch was legit, he was unsure on whether to pass or fail the guy. So, the tournament director decided to award him the victory despite questions surrounding his catch. 

The following year, the same angler was in position to win again but this time the polygraph examiner failed him. Then a man came forward and told the tournament director how and where this angler was getting his fish.   

He was pulling his bass out of a basket under a dock just before weigh-in. Convicted of fraud, this guy paid a price with a prison sentence and a heavy fine. 

Then there is the story of Elro McNeil who, in 1983, tried to weigh-in a bass that he purchased from Florida. It was rejected, but the bass was then frozen and thawed at his Louisiana home before being turned over to another angler for weigh-in at a Tyler, Texas tournament. 

The saddest part of this story was that one of the anglers involved in this elaborate scheme was found shot dead at his favorite fishing hole. At first it was considered a murder, but it was later ruled a suicide. 

What may be the best cheating scheme ever was orchestrated by Japanese angler, Yuming Gao, a few weeks ago during a Bassmaster Open. This dude took cheating to another level as he was placing air tags inside other angler’s bass boats so he could track them and learn where they were catching their fish. 

The one thing I’ve learned over my many years of seeing guys that cheat in bass tournaments is, most of the time, it wasn’t about the money they could win, but more about their ego and wanting to be recognized as one of the best bass fishermen in their region.

As an angler, the only thing you have is your name. Once you cheat and get caught, not only is your fishing career over, but you’ve now lost the reputation you had as a person. 

All anglers want to be recognized as one of the best, especially on whatever tournament trail they are fishing. But for some, the need to cheat can be so strong that no matter what the consequences are they just can’t stand winning the right way. I guess they think they won’t get caught… until they do. 

Here’s the deal; if you’re an angler looking to bend the rules in order to gain a competitive advantage, you’re already a loser! You have no place in tournament bass fishing, and I hope the next time you decide to cheat, the hands of justice come down on you with both prison time and a hefty fine, along with a lifetime ban from all fishing tournaments. 

By: Jason Pugh, Associate Athletic Director for External Relations

NATCHITOCHES – The Northwestern State athletic department and Rhodes Properties and Development have partnered to create a unique opportunity for fans and supporters of Demon athletics.

The two entities have combined to present the 2026 Rhodes Properties and Development Demon Dream Home giveaway – a raffle that will see the winner collect a brand-new Rhodes-built home in the Hidden Oak subdivision in Natchitoches, located along Louisiana Highway 3191.

Raffle tickets will be sold for $100 each beginning May 4 and can be purchased through Northwestern athletes or online through www.NSUDemons.com. The live drawing will take place Nov. 6 at Riverside Reserve in Natchitoches with additional prizes awarded at the event.

Proceeds from the raffle will go toward the Northwestern athletic department in support of its student-athletes.

“Working hand-in-hand with Rhodes Properties and Development to bring the Demon Dream Home to life was an easy decision,” Director of Athletics Kevin Bostian said. “Their support of Northwestern State athletics never has been in question, but it has reached another level with this partnership. We are far beyond grateful for Rhodes Properties and Development for their input and expertise in this process.”

The home, valued at $265,000, is a three-bedroom, two-bathroom, 1,450-square foot heated building in one of Natchitoches’ newest subdivisions that Rhodes Properties and Development and Rhodes Realty began developing in early 2026. Hidden Oak subdivision is located near Sibley Lake, west of Louisiana Highway 1 in Natchitoches.

“We at Rhodes Properties and Development, alongside Rhodes Realty, understand the importance of the Northwestern State athletic program to the Natchitoches community,” Rhodes Properties and Development owners and operators James and Justin Rhodes said. “We believe in the vision of Northwestern State athletics and where it is going. We presented this opportunity to Kevin as our way to support nearly 400 student-athletes as well as the coaches and staff members with whom we have developed relationships. The vendors who will help us bring this home to life share that same vision. Being involved in all facets of this project allows us to continue to demonstrate our commitment to Northwestern State and Natchitoches.”

Purchase Raffle Tickets: https://nsudemons.com/

“When a mother realizes her child is watching history unfold in real time—and feeling afraid—she faces a question no parent is ever quite prepared to answer: how do you explain a frightening world without making it feel even more dangerous?”

 See what Ida says 

If you’ve ever had so much earwax that you started wondering whether your head was secretly manufacturing candles for a side hustle, then friend, you are in good company. Recently I found myself in that exact predicament—both ears so clogged that even Granny’s Home Remedy (which usually involves olive oil, prayer, and a level of confidence not supported by medical science) didn’t make a dent. My hearing was so bad I kept asking people to repeat themselves, and they kept repeating themselves louder, and eventually everyone was shouting like we were reenacting the Battle of Jericho.

Finally, I surrendered and went to an ENT. The procedure was swift, humbling, and—let’s be honest—deeply satisfying. Suddenly the world was crisp again. Birds chirped. Paper rustled. I could hear my own footsteps.

But as I walked out of the office, ears squeakyclean and ego slightly bruised, I wondered: if our physical ears can get that stopped up, what about our spiritual ones?

Jesus once said, “People have eyes but do not see, and ears but do not hear.” I used to think He was being poetic. Now I think He may have been talking about spiritual cerumen—holy earwax, if you will.

Earwax doesn’t show up all at once. It builds slowly, quietly, sneakily—like dust bunnies or church committee meetings. One day you’re hearing fine, and the next you’re saying “Huh?” so often people think it’s your new spiritual gift.

Spiritual wax works the same way.

• A little pride here.
• A little resentment there.
• A dash of busyness, a sprinkle of distraction, a generous scoop of “I’ll pray later.”

Before long, the still, small voice of God sounds like it’s coming from the bottom of a well. And just like physical wax, spiritual wax is rarely solved by home remedies. We try:

• The Cotton Swab Method: “I’ll fix this myself.”
• The Essential Oil Method: “I bought something expensive; surely that counts as spiritual growth.”
• The Denial Method: “I’m fine. Everyone else is mumbling.”

But none of these clear the blockage. They just push it deeper.

After my ENT adventure, I learned that the best ear hygiene is simple: keep things clear, avoid sticking junk in there, and let the ear do what it was designed to do.

Spiritually, the same principles apply.

1. Stop sticking things in your ears.
You know the things—noise, hurry, outrage, comparison, doomscrolling, and the occasional YouTube prophet who predicted the end of the world last Tuesday. None of these help you hear God.

2. Let the Spirit do the cleaning.
Just as the ear naturally moves wax outward, the Holy Spirit gently brings our blockages to the surface—if we give Him space. Prayer, silence, Scripture, worship: these are the warm drops that soften the buildup.

3. Get professional help when needed.
Sometimes the blockage is too deep for DIY spirituality. That’s when we need pastors, counselors, trusted friends, or a good old-fashioned cometoJesus moment.

When the ENT finished, I was amazed at how loud the world was. I had forgotten what clarity sounded like.

When God clears our spiritual ears, the same thing happens. Suddenly Scripture speaks. Prayer feels alive. Worship vibrates in the bones. Conviction is gentle but unmistakable. And the voice of God—steady, loving, persistent—sounds like it’s been waiting patiently the whole time.

Maybe Jesus wasn’t scolding when He said people had ears but didn’t hear. Maybe He was diagnosing. Maybe He was inviting us to the Great Physician’s office for a little spiritual irrigation. And who knows—maybe when our ears are finally clear, we’ll hear Him say, “Welcome back. I’ve been talking to you this whole time.”

It’s 2026, and they’ve put AI inside everything from your toaster to your toothbrush. Now, a local genius claims to have optimized the highway driving experience. Our advice? If the app gives you the option to ‘Cancel,’ hit it before it hits your windshield.

April 29 has served as the backdrop for events ranging from historic weddings to moments of unrest, each leaving a lasting imprint on society.

One of the most widely recognized events tied to this date occurred in 2011, when Prince William married Catherine Middleton in a ceremony watched by millions around the world. The royal wedding was seen as a modernizing moment for the British monarchy, blending tradition with contemporary appeal and capturing global attention.

April 29 is also remembered for the 1992 Los Angeles riots, which erupted following the acquittal of police officers involved in the beating of Rodney King. The unrest lasted several days, resulting in widespread damage, injuries, and loss of life. The riots highlighted deep racial and economic tensions in the United States and prompted ongoing discussions about policing and justice.

In wartime history, April 29, 1945, marked the liberation of the Dachau concentration camp by Allied forces during World War II. The discovery of the camp’s conditions exposed the full extent of atrocities committed during the Holocaust and became a pivotal moment in documenting those crimes.

The date also carries significance in technological progress. In 2004, the final Oldsmobile rolled off the assembly line, marking the end of one of America’s oldest automobile brands and symbolizing shifts within the auto industry.

From celebration to conflict and remembrance, April 29 reflects the wide spectrum of human experience, illustrating how a single date can hold moments of joy, tragedy, and transformation.

Miriam Young Hollenshead
November 17, 1927 – April 23, 2026
Visitation: Tuesday, May 5 from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. at Lebanon Church
Services: Tuesday, May 5 at 10:00 a.m. at Lebanon Church

Claiborne Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or billvance.erg@gmail.com. (Notice of Deaths shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to billvance.erg@gmail.com

By Tiffany Flournoy 

The Claiborne Parish School Board received a favorable audit for fiscal year 2025, with auditors noting strong financial practices and one minor compliance issue tied to federal program documentation.

During the April 9 regular board meeting at Summerfield High School, students, staff, and officials participated in opening ceremonies led by Summerfield sixth grader Lindsey Walton, who delivered the prayer and Pledge of Allegiance.

Board members approved the minutes from prior meetings and accepted the district’s annual audit report for the year ending June 30, 2025. Tim Green, partner and CPA with Allen, Green & Williamson LLP, said the firm issued an unmodified opinion, meaning the financial statements were fairly presented in accordance with applicable standards.

He also reported no significant deficiencies under Government Auditing Standards issued by the U.S. Comptroller General.

One compliance issue was identified in the district’s Child Nutrition Program involving time certifications that were not completed within required deadlines. Officials said corrective actions have already been implemented, including updated procedures and monitoring measures to ensure compliance going forward.

In other business, the board approved financial support for students and sponsors attending the National FBLA Convention in San Antonio this summer, authorized advertising for bids on food service supplies, and approved a request to extend the superintendent’s contract through December 31, 2028.

Members also approved the district’s differentiated compensation allocation plan for teachers, funded through the Louisiana Department of Education, which will provide stipends for eligible educators in high-need areas, with payments scheduled later this month.

Superintendent Chris Brooks also presented updates on a proposed retention, recruitment, and performance pay plan for the 2026–27 school year for board consideration at a future meeting.

The Town of Homer will hold a special election on May 16, 2026, to consider three propositions involving the rededication of existing sales taxes.

IMPORTANT:

These propositions DO NOT create any new taxes and DO NOT increase current tax rates.

Instead, they allow the Town to repurpose existing voter-approved sales taxes to better support current operational and infrastructure needs, as determined annually by the Board of Aldermen.

BACKGROUND – EXISTING TAXES WERE ORIGINALLY APPROVED BY VOTERS

The three taxes being considered for rededication were originally approved by voters on:

November 16, 1985

November 4, 2014

November 21, 2015

Each of these is a 1% sales and use tax currently in place and generating revenue for the Town of Homer.

WHAT THE PROPOSITIONS DO

If approved, the measures will allow the Town to redirect how these existing funds are
used, including:

Street and infrastructure improvements (construction, paving, maintenance)

Public works and essential services, such as water, sewer, drainage, police, fire, public buildings, recreation, and equipment

Residential garbage collection

General municipal operations, where funds may be used for any lawful purpose when
needed

This provides the Town with greater flexibility to address changing priorities and operational needs each year.

WHY THIS MATTERS

Currently, portions of these tax revenues are restricted to specific uses. This election would:

Allow funds to be used more efficiently and where they are most needed

Support day-to-day operations, not just capital projects

Help the Town respond to infrastructure demands, service costs, and emergencies

Ensure the Board of Aldermen can allocate resources responsibly on an annual basis

ELECTION DETAILS

Date: May 16, 2026

Poll Hours: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Eligible Voters: All registered voters within the Town of Homer

KEY TAKEAWAY

This election is about flexibility—not new taxes.

It allows the Town of Homer to make better use of existing revenue to maintain services, improve infrastructure, and meet the community’s needs now and into the future.

Submission by:

Jimmy Hand
Town of Homer
Alderman District 3
318-548-5621

A mix of warm temperatures and generally pleasant conditions will carry Claiborne Parish through the workweek, but residents should prepare for a return of rain and thunderstorms as the weekend approaches.

According to the National Weather Service, Wednesday will feature partly sunny skies with a high near 85 degrees. South winds at 5 to 10 mph could gust as high as 20 mph. Wednesday night will remain partly cloudy, with a low around 64 and light south winds.

On Thursday, there is a slight 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 p.m., followed by mostly sunny skies and a high near 87. Conditions will clear Thursday night, with temperatures dipping to around 63.

Friday continues the warming trend, bringing mostly sunny skies and a high near 89. Friday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 65.

Rain chances increase heading into the weekend. Saturday will start with a slight chance of showers, with a better chance for showers and thunderstorms developing after 1 p.m. Skies will remain mostly cloudy, with a high near 85 and a 40 percent chance of precipitation.

Saturday night brings the highest likelihood for rainfall, with showers likely and a possible thunderstorm. Overnight lows will drop to around 50, with a 60 percent chance of rain.

By Sunday, conditions begin to improve, though a slight 20 percent chance of showers lingers. Expect mostly sunny skies and a cooler high near 74. Sunday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 48.

Looking ahead to Monday, partly sunny skies return with a high near 76, offering a mild start to the new week.

Residents are encouraged to enjoy the warm and dry conditions through Friday while staying alert for changing weather conditions and potential storms over the weekend.

By Richard Searles, Journal Contributor

State faces record 6,465 orphaned wells, a cleanup bill that could top $1 billion, and a broken oversight system

Louisiana’s oil patch is leaving behind a growing legacy of abandoned wells that leak, contaminate groundwater and cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars — and on a per capita basis, the state’s problem is more than four times worse than Texas, which has drawn national attention for the same issue.

As of March 2025, Louisiana has 6,465 orphaned oil and gas wells — unplugged, abandoned sites with no responsible operator — according to the state Department of Conservation and Energy. Texas has approximately 10,029 orphaned wells, according to its Railroad Commission. But Texas has nearly seven times Louisiana’s population. Louisiana has roughly one orphaned well for every 711 residents. Texas has one for every 3,130. Louisiana’s per capita burden is more than four times heavier.

The Numbers Are Accelerating

Between 2014 and 2023, the Louisiana Legislative Auditor found that an average of about 445 wells were added to the orphaned list each year. In 2025, more than 1,600 wells were added — more than three times the historical annual average. In just the first months of 2026, another 517 wells have already been added.

Behind those orphaned wells sits an even larger problem: inactive wells not yet orphaned but at risk. The Legislative Auditor found the inactive well count climbed 21.7 percent from 2019 to 2024, reaching 21,629 statewide.

What It Will Cost — and Why the Numbers Differ

The cleanup bill has been reported in different ways, and understanding why requires a distinction between two categories of problem wells.

The first is the orphaned well count itself — the 6,500 wells with no responsible operator. The Louisiana Legislative Auditor places the average plugging cost at $113,000 per well. Multiplied across the current orphaned well list, that produces the widely cited $730 million figure.

But that number covers only orphaned wells. A July 2025 white paper from the LSU Center for Energy Studies, commissioned by the state, calculated that plugging and abandoning both orphaned and idle wells in just the Monroe and Shreveport regulatory districts — two of Louisiana’s three oil and gas districts — would cost approximately $860 million. The Lafayette district, which holds roughly 41 percent of the state’s total orphaned and idle well inventory, was not included in that estimate. When all three districts and all idle wells are accounted for, the total cost to Louisiana taxpayers could well exceed $1 billion.

Since 2023, the state has plugged just 490 orphaned wells at a combined cost of nearly $90 million in state and federal funds — far behind the pace needed to make meaningful progress.

The Oversight System Failed

Louisiana’s attempt to manage the problem through a private industry-led entity collapsed. The Louisiana Oilfield Restoration Association, created in 2019 to collect operator fees and fund plugging activity, was dissolved after a state audit found it falling far behind — and after allegations of self-dealing that included a $780,000 loan to a state official. An audit also found the association’s administrative partner was charging a 36 percent fee on revenues, nearly double the agreed cap. During fiscal years 2020 through 2023, the state plugged 976 orphaned wells through the program. During that same period, nearly 1,700 new orphaned wells were reported — meaning the system was losing ground even while operating.

The Louisiana Legislature responded in 2024 by creating the Natural Resources Trust Authority under the Department of Conservation and Energy, tasked with rebuilding oversight and funding. Financial security requirements — the bonds operators must post to cover future plugging costs — remain a structural weakness. Though coverage rose from 25 percent of wells in 2014 to 74 percent by 2024, the Legislative Auditor found the amounts collected still fall well short of actual plugging costs.

The Bottom Line

Louisiana is producing new orphaned wells faster than it can plug old ones, carrying a per capita orphaned well burden more than four times that of Texas, and facing a total cleanup bill that state and university researchers suggest could exceed $1 billion when all idle and orphaned wells statewide are fully accounted for. The consequences — contaminated groundwater, leaking methane, degraded land — fall most heavily on the rural communities where these wells are concentrated.

Sources: Louisiana Department of Conservation and Energy; Louisiana Legislative Auditor’s Office; LSU Center for Energy Studies, “Orphan and Idle Wells in Louisiana,” July 2025; Texas Railroad Commission; Louisiana Illuminator.

Have you ever opened your refrigerator with plans to cook a healthy meal, only to discover wilted greens, moldy berries, or fruit that has gone bad far too soon? You are not alone.

Many households struggle with keeping fresh produce fresh, which often leads to wasted food, wasted money, and extra trips to the grocery store. The good news is that learning how to properly select and store fruits and vegetables can make a big difference. With a little knowledge and planning, you can stretch your food budget, reduce waste, and keep nutritious foods available for you and your family.

The process of keeping fruits and vegetables fresh begins at the grocery store. Selecting quality produce is the first and most important step in making fruits and vegetables last longer once you bring them home. When shopping, take a moment to carefully look over the produce you place in your cart. Choose items that are free from cuts, bruises, insect holes, mold, decay, or soft spots. These imperfections may seem small, but they can allow bacteria to spread and cause nearby produce to spoil more quickly.

It is also helpful to think ahead about when and how you plan to use the fruits and vegetables you are buying. Purchasing produce at varying stages of ripeness can help prevent everything from needing to be used at once. For example, buying bananas that are slightly green allows them to ripen over several days, giving you more time to enjoy them. The same idea applies to avocados, tomatoes, and other fruits that continue to ripen after harvest. A little planning while shopping can go a long way in preventing wasted food at home.

When fresh fruits and vegetables are not in season or when prices are higher than usual, frozen and canned options can be excellent alternatives. Frozen fruits and vegetables are typically harvested at peak ripeness and frozen quickly, helping preserve both flavor and nutrients. They are convenient, affordable, and have a longer shelf life, making them a great option to keep on hand. Canned fruits and vegetables can also be part of a healthy diet. When choosing canned items, look for vegetables labeled “low sodium” and fruits packed in 100 percent juice or water instead of heavy syrup. These small choices can help you manage sodium and added sugar intake while still enjoying the convenience of canned foods.

Knowing what to look for with specific fruits can also improve quality and freshness. Apples should feel firm and have smooth skin without bruises or blemishes. Bananas are best when they are mostly yellow with a little green at the ends, allowing them to ripen gradually at home. Grapes should be firm and tightly attached to the stem loose or shriveled grapes are often past their prime. Melons should have a sweet smell and feel slightly soft where the stem was attached. When selecting a watermelon, tapping it and listening for a hollow sound is a simple trick that often indicates ripeness.

Vegetables also benefit from careful selection. Potatoes should be firm and free of eyes or sprouts. Leafy greens, such as spinach and lettuce, should be bright in color and free from wilting or browning. Cucumbers, zucchini, and peppers should feel heavy for their size and have smooth, unwrinkled skin. Root vegetables such as carrots, turnips, beets, and sweet potatoes should be smooth, firm, and brightly colored. In many cases, smaller root vegetables are more tender and flavorful.

Once produce makes it home, proper storage is just as important as proper selection. Different fruits and vegetables have different storage needs. Some items do best when stored on the kitchen counter, while others should be placed in the refrigerator crisper drawer. Certain fruits, including apples, bananas, and tomatoes release ethylene gas, a natural ripening agent that can cause nearby produce to spoil faster. Keeping ethylene‑producing fruits separate from other fruits and vegetables can help extend freshness.

Many fruits can be ripened on the counter and then moved to the refrigerator once ripe to slow further ripening. Greens and most vegetables generally last longer when kept in the refrigerator. Using the crisper drawer helps maintain the right humidity level for produce, keeping it fresher for a longer period of time.

Even with the best planning, there may be times when fruits or vegetables become overripe before you are able to use them. When this happens, freezing can be a great solution. Overripe fruit can be frozen for smoothies, baking, or cooking. Some vegetables may need to be blanched briefly boiled and then cooled before freezing to help maintain quality. Cut fruits and vegetables should always be stored in airtight containers and refrigerated promptly to keep them safe and fresh.

Learning how to properly select and store fruits and vegetables does not have to be complicated. Small changes in how you shop, store, and plan meals can make a noticeable difference. These simple habits can help reduce food waste, save money on groceries, and ensure that healthy options are always within reach.

With a little attention and planning, keeping fruits and vegetables fresh becomes much easier and your grocery budget, your meals, and your family’s health will all benefit.

For more information, contact your local LSU AgCenter office.
Shakera Williams, DrHSc, MPH
Associate Extension Agent
Nutrition & Community Health
Webster, Claiborne, and Lincoln Parishes
Webster Parish Chair
sswilliams@agcenter.lsu.edu

Gardeners, farmers, and outdoor enthusiasts in Claiborne Parish will have an opportunity to dig deeper into soil health and crop success during an upcoming educational event hosted by the LSU AgCenter.

The “Soil to Harvest” program is set for Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the Hill Farm Research Station, located at 11959 LA-9 in Homer. The event will begin with registration at 8:30 a.m., followed by sessions running from 9:00 a.m. until noon.

The workshop will feature a series of expert-led discussions focused on practical, seasonal topics relevant to local growers and landowners:

9:00 a.m. — Warm Season Vegetable Garden

Presented by John Monzingo, Assistant County Agent

10:00 a.m. — Insects and Diseases

Presented by Kyleigh Bass, Assistant County Agent (Lincoln & Bienville Parishes)

11:00 a.m. — Weed Identification and Turf Management

Presented by Dr. Ron Strahan

An optional field tour will also be available, giving attendees a hands-on look at research and demonstration areas.

Organizers say the event is designed to provide timely information to help residents improve garden productivity, manage pests, and better understand soil and plant health in the region.

The LSU AgCenter emphasizes that the program is open to the public and follows its policy of nondiscrimination. Individuals needing accommodations are encouraged to contact the Claiborne Parish Extension Office in advance.

This educational outreach effort reflects the AgCenter’s continued commitment to supporting agriculture and community development across Claiborne Parish and surrounding areas.