Natural Resources
Streams, ponds, and rivers. Forestlands, farmlands, and wetlands. Wildlife and fisheries. Mississippi has abundant and diverse natural resources, and many people in the state leverage these resources for business and pleasure. The MSU Extension Service works with stakeholders, state agency partners, and citizens of all ages to explore, study, manage, and conserve these natural resources while finding ways to put them to use in positive ways.
Publications
News
RAYMOND, Miss. -- Mississippi’s agriculture industry remains vibrant with an overall production value estimated at $9 billion, despite a drop in row crop prices.
Although prices for timber were lower in 2024, harvest on the state’s forest land was up about 8%, giving forestry an expected value of $1.5 billion, similar to what it had in 2023.
Coastal wetland conservation and restoration projects along the Mississippi Gulf Coast and beyond are running into a distinct challenge: there often aren’t enough locally sourced native plants readily available to complete these efforts.
The Mississippi State University Extension Service is meeting this problem head-on by enlisting plant enthusiasts to grow and sell these marsh plants. The effort is organized as the Native Plant Producer Network, or NPPN, and it was started in 2023.
Success Stories
Whether it’s related to his work or his sons, Iuka logger Jonathan Cutshall’s path often intersects with the Mississippi State University Extension Service.
Billy Mitchell spent his childhood summers in the water and has lived at Pelahatchie Bay for more than three decades, so his dedication to protecting water resources now almost makes too much sense.
In late February, Mississippi State University hosted the 2024 National Floriculture Forum, an annual conference held at different locations around the country.
