News

Strokes are one of the top five causes of death in Mississippi, and the state has the second highest mortality rate (52.1 per 100,000) in the United States, accounting for 1,925 deaths in 2024. During May, National Stroke Awareness Month, the Mississippi State Department of Health is stressing the importance of taking meaningful steps to…

The Mississippi Department of Mental Health joins the nation in observing Mental Health Awareness Month this May, reaffirming its commitment to expanding access to quality behavioral health services for all Mississippians. First observed in 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to raise public understanding of mental health conditions, reduce stigma, and connect individuals…

By Eddie Smith, MSU Extension Service There are some plants that make you smile the moment you see them, and Polka Dot Plants are at the top of that list for me. The name sounds like simply a description, but that is the actual name of these plants that have a playful, almost whimsical quality.…

Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson announced that the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce has begun accepting a new round of applications for its Wild Hog Control Program. The application period will remain open until May 15, 2026. All Mississippi counties are eligible for the application period. “I encourage landowners and managers impacted…

The Mississippi Egg Marketing Board is hosting its annual Easter at the Ag Museum event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 4. at the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum. “We’re proud to continue this annual Easter tradition at the Ag Museum and welcome visitors from all across the state,” said Commissioner of…

Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson recently announced that the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce would begin accepting a new round of applications for its Wild Hog Control Program starting on Feb. 1. The application period will remain open until Sunday, Feb. 15. All Mississippi counties are eligible for the application period. “Wild…

The Wall That Heals–a 375-foot replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., that is sanctioned by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund–is opening in Crystal Springs Nov. 13 and will be open 24 hours a day until 2 p.m. Nov. 16. The traveling wall is located at the corner of Highways 27 and 51…

The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality is expanding a water contact advisory for a portion of the Pearl River following a significant sewer line break reported by Jackson Water near Hanging Moss Creek in Jackson. Initial sampling results show elevated bacteria levels in the river downstream of the break, with elevated levels detected as far…

 The Mississippi Legislature has recently passed House Bill 602, marking a significant move to enhance transparency in the seafood industry and build greater consumer confidence. Beginning July 1, 2025, all seafood and crawfish sold in Mississippi—whether in grocery stores, seafood markets, restaurants, or food trucks—must be clearly labeled as either imported or domestic. Oversight and…

The Mississippi Board of Animal Health urges animal owners to be aware of New World screwworm (NWS), an invasive pest that poses a serious threat to livestock and other warm-blooded animals, including pets, and in rare cases, humans. Adult screwworm flies have orange eyes, a metallic blue or green body, and three dark stripes along…