Using The Border Row Rice Method As A Viable Alternative To Conventional Flood Rice
Applied Research
Andrew Bolton
Little Rock
Abstract
This applied research trial set forth to demonstrate that rice production using the border row rice method can be a worthwhile and profitable method for farmers to utilize. This method requires a precision leveled field that does not possess a cross slope. This field was divided by small levies or borders every 60-80ft. These borders are not required to be substantial as in traditional fields but provide just enough height to direct water down the field. Because this rice never goes into a traditional flood, water is flushed across the field to ensure adequate moisture. The field selected for this trial was a Crowley-Stuttgart loam which is excellent for flushing water across instead of holding a flood. Prior to seeding, two burn-down herbicide applications were sprayed across a 27-acre field, giving us a clean field to start our demonstration. After the burn-down applications, border rows were pulled and spaced 60ft apart. No seed beds were pulled for this field. Instead, seeding was done via flat drill. The cultivar used for this trial was RiceTec FP 7321. The field was scouted by Cooperative Extension Service agents weekly. Agents provided fertilizer timing recommendations based on growth stage, watering recommendations based on growth stage and soil moisture, and fungicide/insecticide applications based on weed/insect observations. At harvest, this border row rice field yielded 248.58 bu/ac and milled at 48/70. Of 16 field demos across Arkansas, which included traditional flooded and row rice fields, this field yielded the highest bu/ac harvest, had the lowest total cost per bushel of the demonstration fields and recorded the highest return above specified expenses at $692.88 per acre. This created of profit of $18,710.73 for this 27-acre field. This demonstration showcases that with proper conditions that the border row rice method can be a viable option to producers in the rice industry.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Andrew Bolton, Keith Perkins
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Bolton, A. Agriculture Agent , University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service , Arkansas, 72204
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Perkins , K. CEA - Staff Chair, University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, Arkansas, 72086