Gaile Clary December 21, 1936 – April 22, 2026 Visitation: Thursday, April 30, 2026, 9:00AM – 10:30AM, St. Thomas Aquanis Catholic Church, 813 Carey Avenue, Ruston Rosary: Thursday, April 30, 2026, 10:30AM, St. Thomas Aquanis Catholic Church, 813 Carey Avenue, Ruston Mass of Christian Burial: Thursday, April 30, 2026, 11:00AM, St. Thomas Aquanis Catholic Church, 813 Carey Avenue, Ruston
Mary Carson Smith October 1, 1926 – April 23, 2026 Graveside service: Monday, April 27, 2026, 2:00 PM, Chatham Cemetery, LA-4, Chatham
Michael James Goodman October 21, 1971 – April 22, 2026 Private memorial
RUSTON, La. — The City of Ruston dedicated Huckleberry Trails Park to former alderman Marie Riggs Thursday and honored her longtime advocacy for the park’s creation and preservation.
Dozens of residents, city officials and supporters gathered for the ceremony at the park, where speakers credited Riggs with helping turn the greenspace into one of Ruston’s signature community destinations.
Matt Cotton, Sports Complex and Parks and Recreation Director for the city, said the park represents both community and nature.
“This park right here is special,” Cotton said. “It celebrates community and it celebrates nature, and we just are excited to dedicate it to you, Mrs. Riggs, for all the hard work that you have done, getting this park established originally, and continuing to fight for it and keeping it the great park that it is now.”
Mayor Ronny Walker said Riggs’ persistence was essential in bringing the project to life.
“This park would not have happened without Marie pushing and having it happen,” Walker said.
Walker also used the ceremony to highlight Ruston’s broader investment in quality-of-life improvements during his administration, including downtown development, curbside recycling and expanded walking trails.
“We had one mile of paths when I became mayor,” Walker said. “We now have over 25 miles that people can walk within our city.”
He added that the city plans to open two more parks this year, increasing Ruston’s total from eight to 10.
“It shows our investment in the people of our city, the young families, the older families, the students, the whole works,” Walker said.
Ward 5 Alderman Bruce Siegmund said Riggs’ impact on both the ward and the park made the recognition fitting.
“It’s great to honor someone like her that’s done so much,” Siegmund said. “This park, in particular, is one of the highlights.”
Riggs, who served as Ward 5 alderman from 2003 to 2014, thanked supporters and reflected on the years of work that went into preserving and developing the property.
“This park is a miracle,” Riggs said, recounting how community members rallied to support the project.
She also spoke about the park’s ties to her own family history, recalling childhood trips to pick huckleberries along Barnett Springs Road with her father, whose family had longstanding ties to Louisiana Tech University.
“That’s why the huckleberry is special to me,” Riggs said. “It had to be part of the name for this park.”
Riggs praised the many residents, city employees, university faculty and students who contributed labor and ideas to improve the park over the years, describing it as a cooperative community effort.
She closed by urging those in attendance to stand for truth and compassion.
“Always speak the truth, always act with truth, always stand for truth,” Riggs said. “Never be afraid to lift your voice for honesty, truth, and compassion, against lying, greed, and injustice.”
This park is located adjacent to Cypress Springs Elementary School on Magnolia Street and is 23 wooded acres with multiple walking trails.
(Marie Riggs, left, with Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker)
Courtesy of Louisiana Tech University Communications
Louisiana Tech University’s Speech Center is stepping into the future of clinical education, thanks to a grant from the Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund that has provided a state-of-the-art video monitoring system for student training.
The newly installed system features 12 cameras — one in each therapy room — allowing faculty supervisors to observe clinical sessions in real time while maintaining a natural environment for clients. Sessions can also be recorded, giving graduate students immediate, in-depth feedback to sharpen their skills.
“Weyerhaeuser has a longstanding commitment to investing in the communities where it operates,” said Gary Kennedy, dean of the College of Applied and Natural Sciences. “This new video monitoring system will significantly elevate student practicum experiences by providing advanced tools that support high-quality training and instruction.”
The project was championed by recently-retired Communication Sciences and Disorders faculty member Cheryl Leachman, whose vision helped bring the technology to life.
By enabling supervisors to evaluate sessions without being physically present, the system preserves authentic clinician-client interactions while enhancing instructional oversight, a win-win for both students and those they serve.
“This is a transformative addition to our clinical program,” said Dr. Brenda Heiman, director of the School of Communication Sciences and Disorders. “We’re grateful to Weyerhaeuser for helping us strengthen student outcomes and expand what’s possible in our training environment.”
The School of Communication Sciences and Disorders is part of Louisiana Tech’s College of Applied and Natural Sciences, which prepares students for careers in science, health care and applied industries through hands-on learning, research and community engagement.
Through the Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund, Weyerhaeuser supports communities across the United States and Canada, focusing on areas such as education, workforce development, environmental stewardship and affordable housing.
Local law enforcement authorities are investigating two burglaries that occurred Wednesday afternoon in neighborhoods rarely touched by crime.
The Ruston Police Department is investigating a burglary at a residence in the Trenton Place subdivision off U.S. 167.
Police said cash, passports, and handbags were among the items taken from the home.
Lieutenant Matt Henderson of the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office said investigators are working on an attempted burglary that occurred in the Belle Pointe subdivision off Douglas Road Wednesday afternoon.
Henderson said at about 3:30 p.m., a woman heard a noise outside her residence and then saw two suspects wearing hoodies trying to force their way into the home. They fled when they realized someone was in the house.
Neither agency would speculate if the two afternoon burglaries in low-crime neighborhoods were related.
The Ross Lynn Charitable Foundation (RLCF) is hosting the 2026 Spirited Giving Mixer Thursday, April 30 from 6–8 p.m. at the Gilbert Center, 301 N. Trenton St., Suite 3.
The highlight of the evening is a curated silent auction featuring original works from some of the most celebrated artists in Ruston’s art history.
Many of the pieces come directly from the personal collection of Kit Gilbert, making this a genuinely special assemblage of work. Artists represented include Mary K. Morse, Ed Pinkston, Charlie Meeds, Dean Dablow, Annie Richardson, Adrianna Speer, Doug Walton, Kit Gilbert, Kenn Kotara, Jonathan May, Nick Bustamante, Kent Follette, Alexis Wreden, Catherine McVea, Kip Sudduth, Camille Jungman, and more. For anyone who appreciates the creative talent rooted in this part of Louisiana, it’s a remarkable collection to see in one room.
The event is free and open to the public. Guests will enjoy live music from The Diggin’ Dogs, complimentary wine for guests 21 and older, and heavy hors d’oeuvres.
The Spirited Giving Mixer is a Give for Good event, an opportunity for the community to see and hear about the work happening at the Gilbert Center and RLCF. Gifts made at giveforgoodnla.org/RLCF between April 21 and May 5th will be percentage-matched by Give for Good.
“This event is about sharing with the public,” said Dylan Sanders. “It’s a chance for us to gather, enjoy some great art and music, and make a significant investment in the local arts community.”
Admission is free. Wine service available to guests 21 and older — ID will be checked at the bar. No ticket required.
For more information, contact Dylan Sanders at dylan@rosslynnfoundation.org.
The Gilbert Center is located at 301 N. Trenton St., Suite 3, Ruston, Louisiana, and is a legacy project of the Ross Lynn Charitable Foundation.
About the Gilbert Center Located in the heart of Downtown Ruston, the Gilbert Center is a creative arts hub offering gallery exhibitions, studio space, workshops, an art supply store, a bookstore, and a visiting artist residency program. A legacy project of the Ross Lynn Charitable Foundation, The Gilbert Center carries forward the combined legacies of artists Kit Gilbert and Ross Lynn.
Local law enforcement continues to make headway against what has become the crime of choice for many offenders—stealing from vehicles.
The Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office arrested three individuals in connection with numerous car burglaries that occurred in the Choudrant area earlier this month.
Lieutenant Matt Henderson of LPSO said Zyheim McCallister, 19, of Ruston, Zaylan Moore, 17, of Ruston, and a 15-year-old juvenile were arrested this week following an investigation of car burglaries and vehicle theft.
Henderson said the arrests were made after the analysis of evidence identified the suspects.
McCallister was booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for four counts of attempted simple burglary, possession of a stolen vehicle, theft of a firearm, possession of a firearm by convicted felon, felony theft, theft of a motor vehicle, and simple burglary.
McCallister is well known to local law enforcement. He was given a suspended five-year prison sentence in 2025 for similar offenses and placed on probation for five years. He is facing probation violation charges from the Louisiana Department of Corrections– Probation and Parole Unit.
Moore is charged with possession of a handgun by a minor.
The juvenile was charged with felony theft, four counts of simple burglary, possession of stolen things, possession of a handgun by a juvenile, theft of a firearm, and theft of a motor vehicle.
Most of the crimes occurred in the Sheldon’s View neighborhood of Choudrant, Henderson said.
The investigation is continuing and more arrests are possible.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
A Ruston man was arrested last week after he resisted an officer who stopped him for no tail lights.
Robert Adger, 52, was arrested April 17 after he was stopped for no tail lights and refused to identify himself or exit his vehicle at an officer’s direction.
At about 1:30 a.m., an officer traveling on North Trenton Street saw Adger’s car with inoperable tail lights. Adger was stopped so the officer could alert him to the malfunction.
On at least five occasions, Adger was directed to provide his driver’s license and then five more occasions to provide his name.
After refusing to give the officer his full name or his driver’s license, Adger was directed to step out of the vehicle. According to an officer’s report, Adger told the officer he was not getting out of the car and refused to comply.
Adger continued to ignore directives to quit resisting until a Taser was used to remove him from the vehicle and place him under arrest.
Adger was booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for resisting an officer and no tail lights. Bail was set at $2,000.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:45 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
Below is important information about upcoming voting:
Early voting is May 2-9 (excluding Sunday, May 3) from 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. in the Lincoln Parish Registrar of Voters Office, 100 W Texas Ave, RM 10, Ruston LA 71270.
The deadline to request an absentee ballot is May 12 by 4:30 p.m (other than military and overseas voters). You can request an absentee ballot online through the Louisiana Secretary of State’s Voter Portal or in writing through the Registrar of Voters Office.
The deadline for a registrar of voters to receive a voted absentee ballot is May 15 by 4:30 p.m. (other than military and overseas voters).
On election day, the polls are open from 7 a.m.-8 p.m.
Troyal wanted to be a professional athlete. “The only thing that stopped me,” Troyal said, “was my professional athletic ability.” At Yukon High School, Troyal played football, baseball, and ran track and field. He was especially talented at the javelin throw. When he graduated in 1980, he attended Oklahoma State University in Stillwater on a track and field scholarship. Troyal knew he wanted to play sports in college, but he was unsure what to study. Troyal finally decided to study advertising. As a child, his parents and siblings held casual weekly talent nights. Everyone had to participate. Because of this, Troyal learned to play banjo and guitar. Troyal used his talent to write jingles and commercials for his advertising classes.
In 1984, Troyal walked across the stage at Oklahoma State University and received his diploma. Shortly after he graduated with his degree in advertising, he learned that he had not completed the requirements for his degree. He was one college hour short. The clerical error was discovered after he walked. Troyal had no choice but to take another class, but his student loan and scholarship money ended the moment he walked across that stage. Troyal was from a large family who could not afford to pay his tuition for the single class, so he had to work to pay for the class.
All through college, Troyal worked odd jobs including roofing houses and working as a bouncer at a nightclub. One night while working to pay for the remaining class, Troyal asked Dolly, an employee at Willie’s Saloon in Stillwater, Oklahoma, to allow him to play his guitar and sing for the audience. Dolly agreed. The first night went so well that she asked him to play the following night. The crowds grew and drink sales increased, so Dolly kept Troyal on stage. What could have been just a one-off thing turned into a five-night a week job. One day, Troyal said to himself, “Hey, maybe this is what you’re supposed to be doing.”
Troyal had hoped to become a professional athlete, but he sang instead. One of the songs he sang had the line “Sometimes I thank God for unanswered prayers.” If his prayers to become an athlete had been answered, you might know Troyal in a whole different way. You know Troyal. His full name is Troyal Garth Brooks.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:45 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
Cam Bagwell went 3-for-3 at the plate to lead No. 16 Choudrant to a 6-1 win over No. 17 Negreet on Thursday in the first round of the Class B playoffs.
Bagwell recorded a triple and two singles, sparking an Aggies offense that took control early and never trailed.
The Aggies (13-14) opened the scoring in the first inning when Josh Sellers drew a bases-loaded walk to bring in a run. They added to the lead in the second, plating three runs to go ahead 4-0. Bagwell delivered an RBI single in the inning, and Gavin Hall followed with a two-run home run to left field.
Cash Camp earned the win on the mound, allowing no hits and one unearned run over four innings while striking out seven and walking six. Braden Bagwell provided strong relief, tossing three scoreless innings while allowing one hit with four strikeouts and one walk.
Ace Bowling took the loss for Negreet, surrendering five runs on five hits over 3 1/3 innings. He struck out three and walked seven.
The Aggies showed patience at the plate, drawing 12 walks. Cy Spatafora and Hall led the way with three walks each.
Bowling paced Negreet offensively, going 1-for-4 at the plate. Mark Williams added two walks as Negreet drew seven free passes as a team. Defensively, Negreet was error-free and turned one double play, with Sam Danos recording a team-high seven chances.
With the win, Choudrant advances to face No. 1 seed Pitkin, which had a first round bye.
Each Monday through Friday, the Lincoln Parish Journal will post a list of non-for-profit upcoming events happening in the parish. If you would like to add your event to this list or advertise your for-profit events, please email us at lpjnewsla@gmail.com.
Friday, April 24 6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
Saturday, April 25 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Master Gardeners spring plant sale (The Bridge Community Center, 2301 N. Trenton St.) 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market 2 p.m.: LA Tech baseball 3 p.m.: Fake African Wedding celebrating GSU’s Inaugural International Week (Frederick C. Hobdy Assembly Center; call 318-274-6556 for more information)
Sunday, April 26 1 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
Monday, April 27 11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome 5:30 p.m.: Ruston City Council meeting (Ruston City Hall) 6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street) 6-9 p.m.: Creative Meetups (Creatives at Work, 301 N. Trenton)
Tuesday, April 28 6:30 a.m.: Veterans free breakfast (VFW Post 3615, 206 Memorial Dr.) 10 a.m.: Storytime (Lincoln Parish Library) 4 p.m.: Crafternoon (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: Video-led exercise class (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: Adult Craft Night (Registration required by calling 318-513-5510) 6-9 p.m.: LA Tech Tri Delta pancake dinner fundraiser for St. Jude (Ruston Farmers Market)
Wednesday, April 29 7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee) 11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome 11:30 p.m.: Ribbon cutting celebrating Russ Town Crossing (1211 Gaines Ave.) 12-1 p.m.: Rotary Club meeting (Historic Fire Station)
Thursday, April 30 6:30 a.m.: Community Prayer Breakfast (Ruston Sports Complex, 2001 Champions Way) 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall) 2 p.m.: Ribbon cutting celebrating Shelter Insurance with Jessie Smith (829 E. Georgia Ave., Ste. 1) 6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers) 6 p.m.: LA Tech softball 6 p.m.: Tween Time (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: Teen Time (Lincoln Parish Library)
Friday, May 1 2 p.m.: LA Tech softball 6 p.m.: GSU baseball
Saturday, May 2 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market 2 p.m.: LA Tech softball 3 p.m.: GSU baseball
Sunday, May 3 1 p.m.: GSU baseball
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:45 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
Louisiana Tech returns home this weekend to resume Conference USA play, hosting Missouri State in a three-game series beginning Friday at J.C. Love Field at Pat Patterson Park.
The Bulldogs (24-18, 11-7 CUSA) will face the Bears (26-12, 14-4) in a series scheduled for 6 p.m. today, 2 p.m. Saturday and 1 p.m. Sunday. It marks the first meeting between the programs.
Louisiana Tech has won nine of its last 11 games, though it enters the weekend having dropped two of its past three, including a conference loss at Kennesaw State and a midweek setback at McNeese. The Bulldogs have won three straight CUSA games, highlighted by a home sweep of Middle Tennessee.
Trey Hawsey brings an 11-game hitting streak into the weekend, the longest by a Louisiana Tech player this season. The sophomore first baseman is batting .417 during that stretch with 20 hits, including two doubles and a home run, while driving in nine runs.
Colby Lunsford is also swinging a hot bat, entering the series with a nine-game hitting streak while batting .400 during that span. The graduate third baseman has totaled 18 hits, 10 runs and 10 RBIs over his last nine games.
As a team, Louisiana Tech has recorded double-digit hits in five consecutive games, its longest such streak since late May to early June 2021. The Bulldogs are batting .311 during that stretch while averaging 5.4 runs per game.
Missouri State enters the weekend second in the CUSA standings, two games behind first-place Jacksonville State. The Bears recently dropped a midweek game at No. 24 Arkansas after earning a 15-14 extra-inning win over the Razorbacks on March 31.
The Bears have won five of six conference series this season, including sweeps of Middle Tennessee and Sam Houston at home and a road sweep at Delaware. Their only series loss came against Dallas Baptist.
Missouri State ranks among the top teams in the nation in RPI, sitting 18th overall and among three CUSA programs in the top 30.
Offensively, Curry Sutherland leads the conference with 13 home runs and ranks among the league leaders in slugging percentage and OPS. Bryce Cermenelli is batting .379, the second-best average in CUSA, and has added nine doubles and 17 RBIs.
On the mound, Missouri State features a deep pitching staff with seven players recording at least 30 strikeouts. Max Knight leads the team with 41 strikeouts in 29 2/3 innings and has five wins, tied for fourth-most in the conference.
Ross Fielder owns a 3.79 ERA with 39 strikeouts in 40 1/3 innings, while Owen Slater and Jason Schaaf have combined for 18 starts this season.
The series is one of Louisiana Tech’s final two home conference matchups of the regular season.
Gaile Clary, 89, of Ruston, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on Apri 22, 2026 with her children by her side at Alpine Nursing Home.
She was born on December 21, 1936, at Saint Francis Hospital in Monroe, Louisiana, to Thomas and Beula Speight of Grayson, Louisiana. Gaile earned a master’s degree in art in 1971. She served as a traveling art teacher for the Lincoln Parish School Board for 45 years and was loved by her students for sharing her passion for art.
Gaile Found much joy as a member of the Ouachita Kennel Club where she trained and competed in agility competition, winning numerous awards. She was always proud of her Precious and Blu.
She was preceded in death by her parents, and her daughter, Patricia Anne Clary Leventhal of Naples, Florida.
She is Survived by her children; Paul Thomas Clary-Archuleta (Andrew) of Kansas City, Missouri; Ben Daniel Clary (Ann) of Eldorado, Arkansas; and John Gray Clary (Martie) of Ruston, Louisiana; as well as eight grandchildren; and 10 greatgrandchildren.
Services for Gaile will be held at 11:00 AM, on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Ruston, Louisiana. Officiating will be Reverand Kevin Mues. Interment will follow at Kilpatrick Memorial Gardens in Ruston, Louisiana, under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Homes. A visitation will be held from 9:00 to 10:30 at the Luffy Center. A Rosary will be held at 10:30 followed by the Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM.
Pallbearers will be Gray Clary, Grant Clary, Graham Clary, Gary Gaffney, Landen Gaffney, and Michael Savage.
Planed memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Michael James Goodman, age 54, passed away peacefully from natural causes on April 22, 2026 in Choudrant, Louisiana.
Michael was born on October 21, 1971 in Lepanto, Arkansas. Michael lived a life defined by simple joys and deep personal passions. He had a lifelong love of rock music, often finding comfort and energy in his favorite songs. He also enjoyed spending time in the kitchen, where cooking became a creative outlet. Michael had a special affection for cats, whose companionship brought him lasting happiness over the years.
Michael will be remembered for his rambunctious spirit, booming laugh, quick wit, his interests that brought him joy, and the presence he shared with those closest to him.
Michael is survived by his devoted mother, Bonnie Reed; sister, Katie Johnson (Michael); nephews, Wyatt and Reed; uncle, O.J. James; and his cousins, Dabnie, Jessica, and Kevin who will cherish his memory always.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, O.J. and Katherine James; and his aunt, Carolyn James Kempton.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Michael’s memory to the Feline Humane Society of Ruston.
Grant Stephen Glover October 7, 1960 – April 18, 2026 Visitation: Friday, April 24, 2026, 10:00AM – 11:00AM, First Baptist Church of Ruston, 200 S. Trenton St, Ruston Service: Friday, April 24, 2026, 11:00AM, First Baptist Church of Ruston, 200 S. Trenton St, Ruston
Nancy Delafosse Sunday 11/09/1941 — Saturday 04/18/2026 Visitation: Saturday 04/25/2026 8:00am to 11:00am, St. Benedict Catholic Church, 471 Main Street, Grambling Celebration of Life: Saturday 04/25/2026 11:00am, St. Benedict Catholic Church, 471 Main Street, Grambling Interment: Saturday 04/25/2026 Following Service, Grambling Memorial Garden, Highway 80 West, Grambling
James Earl Shults February 17, 1951 – April 15, 2026 Graveside service: Friday, April 17, 2026, 2:00 PM, Forest Lawn Cemetery, 2500 West California Ave, Ruston
Odessa Regina Buckner Sunday 12/31/1950 — Saturday 04/18/2026 Family Gathering: Friday 04/24/2026 4:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Visitation: Saturday 04/25/2026 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Celebration of Life: Sunday 04/26/2026 11:30am, Mt. Zion Baptist Church #2, 113 California Plant Road, Dubach Interment: Sunday 04/26/2026 Following Service, Mt. Zion Baptist Church #2 Cemetery, 113 California Plant Road, Dubach
Tina Y Davis Friday 11/29/1963 — Saturday 04/04/2026 Memorial Service: Saturday 04/25/2026 11:00am at King’s Funeral Home Private Burial
A rusted and overgrown pump jack sits abandoned, a scene playing out thousands of times across the state as orphaned oil and gas wells outpace the ability to plug them.
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.
Mayor Ronny Walker announced today that he will run for a fourth term as the leader of the City of Ruston.
Standing on the stage at Railroad Park overlooking a revitalized downtown Ruston and accompanied by his wife, Kay, Walker spoke of his love for the city and his desire to serve a fourth term.
“The main reason I am running is that I love this job,” said Walker. “(Former mayor) Dan Hollingsworth told me when I was elected that it would be the greatest job that I ever had. And he was exactly right.”
The Meridian, Mississippi, native was elected in 2014 and re-elected in both 2018 and 2022. He defeated Bill Elmore in 2014 and has run unopposed each of the past two elections.
Walker’s predecessor (Dan Hollingsworth) also served four terms before retiring from office. Walker will turn 75 this year.
During Walker’s tenure as mayor, the city of Ruston has seen significant economic growth and infrastructure improvements with more on the way in the very near future.
“A city is no different then a business,” said Walker. “You are either rolling or you are failing. I feel like we have our city now in the position of growth, only because of the citizens of Ruston voting in Moving Ruston Forward in 2016. That has propelled our city to be the envy of many many cities across the state and the nation.”
During the past 12 years, some of the top accomplishments for the city under Walker’s tenure include:
Moving Ruston Forward – a three-quarters cent sales tax that has led to in excess of $250 million in infrastructure work that has led to growth in new businesses
Partnership with Louisiana Tech University – has led to bridging the gap between the university campus and downtown Ruston
Improvement in relationship with state and federal leaders and entities which has led to over $70 million in grants
Addition of the Ruston Sports Complex, one of the premier multi-sport facilities in the south, that attracts thousands of families to Ruston each year and that provides topnotch facilities for local youngsters
The election will take place this fall.
“In 2014, I ran on a platform that contained four main points,” said Walker. “The first was to grow our city. A city is just like any other business. You are either growing or you are dying.”
Walker provided a couple of illustrations on how the city has grown during his tenure as mayor.
In 2015, the city of Ruston’s revenue was $59 million while today it is $94 million per year. The expenses in 2015 was $55 million while present day it is $71 million.
“The big change is in the net position of our city,” said Walker. “In 2015, it was $116 million and today it is $256 million. So this city has grown over the last 11 years mainly because of Moving Ruston Forward.”
When asked what his goal for the next four years would be, Walker
“To finish a lot of the projects that we have going on right now,” said Walker. “There will always be project whenever I do decide not to run, but we have some really important ones that I would like to see through to completion.”
Louisiana Delta Community College’s Ruston Campus proudly hosted its first-ever Signing Day, celebrating high school seniors who signed their letters of intent to continue their education through career and technical training programs for the summer and fall 2026 semesters.
This inaugural event highlighted 11 students choosing high-demand career pathways in Welding, Patient Care Technician, and Industrial Instrumentation.
We are proud to recognize the following students:
Arcadia High School
Antavian Marsh, Welding
Braylon Roberson, Industrial Instrumentation
Semaj Harris, Industrial Instrumentation
Choudrant High School
Damariz Landaverde, Patient Care Technician
Grafton Academy Homeschool
James Wyatt Grafton, Welding
Lincoln Preparatory School
JaLarrion Wright, Welding
Sajaylon Timmons, Welding
Eli Ferguson, Welding
Jaylin Huntley, Welding
Jabari Robinson, Welding
Quitman High School
Taraje Wiley, Welding
These students are making a powerful investment in their future, and LDCC is proud to celebrate their commitment to building career-ready skills that will impact our region.
Tri Deltas are dedicated to helping children live, scientists learn, and St. Jude further its mission of finding cures for childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases.
Since 1999, Delta Delta Delta has raised more than $100 Million for St. Jude kids. Because of their momentous efforts, St. Jude named its on-campus, short-term housing facility Tri Delta Place, a home away from home for patient families. Because of generous donors, families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food, so they can focus on helping their child live.
Members fundraise through events like social media fundraising challenges and events like Delta House of Pancakes (DHOP). One of these fundraising events is happening in Ruston April 28th!
The LA Tech Tri Delta chapter would like to invite the community to their annual DHOP at the Ruston Farmers Market on Tuesday, April 28th from 6 PM to 9 PM.
$5 tickets will be available at the door for all you can eat pancakes.
The women of Tri Delta hope to see the Ruston community come together to help St. Jude defeat childhood cancer, and enjoy some delicious pancakes.
About St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Its purpose is clear: Finding cures. Saving children.® It is the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children. Treatments invented at St. Jude have helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20% to more than 80% since the hospital opened in 1962. St. Jude won’t stop until no child dies from cancer. St. Jude shares the discoveries it makes, and every child saved at St. Jude means doctors and scientists worldwide can use that knowledge to save thousands more children. Because of generous donors, families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food, so they can focus on helping their child live. Visit St. Jude Inspire to discover powerful St. Jude stories of hope, strength, love and kindness. Join the St. Jude mission by visiting stjude.org, liking St. Jude on Facebook, following St. Jude on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok, and subscribing to its YouTube channel.
A Choudrant man was arrested by Ruston Police early Sunday morning after a woman complained he was stalking her.
Ashley Caleb Scott, 25, was arrested on April 19 for stalking, reckless operation of a vehicle, and disturbing the peace by appearing intoxicated in public.
At about 3:40 a.m., the woman called Ruston Police reporting her ex-boyfriend, Scott, was following her. The woman drove to the Ruston Police Department where she was interviewed by an officer.
Officers found the woman to be visibly shaking and crying. She said a friend of Scott called her, asking her to pick him up pick up Scott in front of a bar on Park Avenue. She said she went to the bar to pick up Scott but saw him get into a fight with a friend and decided she did not want to transport him.
She left, but Scott followed her aggressively in his vehicle. At South Vienna Street and Line Avenue, Scott pulled in front of her, blocking the road and attempted to stop her, the woman said. She told police she was scared for her life and called 911
Scott was located near the woman’s house off U.S. 167 South. Officers found him to be extremely intoxicated with glassy eyes, slurred speech, and an overwhelming odor of alcoholic beverage on him.
Scott could not give a cohesive statement about the incident, but continually made statements referring to a fight in front of the bar, that he was not driving, and how he was mistreated by officers.
Scott was booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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