AgCenter welcomes new marine extension agent to Franklin

The LSU AgCenter and Louisiana Sea recently welcomed Guy “Micah” Patout as the new marine extension agent serving St. Mary Parish and the surrounding coastal region. Based at the LSU AgCenter Franklin Service Center, Patout will work closely with local communities, industry stakeholders and resource managers to support sustainable fisheries, coastal stewardship and environmental resilience.
A native of Loreauville, Patout earned a Bachelor of Science degree in environmental science from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Prior to joining the LSU AgCenter and Louisiana Sea Grant, he worked as a wetland ecologist and environmental scientist, supporting restoration, conservation and environmental monitoring efforts throughout Louisiana.
In his role as marine extension agent, Patout will provide educational programming, technical assistance and outreach to commercial and recreational fishermen, seafood producers, coastal landowners and community members. His work will focus on issues important to coastal Louisiana, including fisheries sustainability, seafood industry outreach, habitat restoration, water quality, coastal land loss and natural resource management.
“I’m excited to serve St. Mary Parish and the surrounding coastal communities,” said Patout. “I look forward to working with fishermen, seafood producers, landowners and residents throughout the region and helping connect them with research-based information and resources that can benefit our coast.”
Patout is committed to building strong partnerships throughout the region and supporting informed decision-making through science-based education and outreach. By collaborating with community members, agencies, industry representatives and local organizations, he hopes to help strengthen the resilience of Louisiana’s working coast while preserving its natural resources for future generations.
Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to connect with Patout through the LSU AgCenter Franklin Service Center to learn more about available programs, workshops and resources. He can be reached at (337) 828-0616, ext. 1710 or mpatout@agcenter.lsu.edu.