The Arkansas Rice Research and Promotion Board approved $3.08 million in funding for 34 research projects during its Feb. 25 meeting, supporting efforts to improve profitability and sustainability in the state’s rice industry.
“To improve profitability and long-term sustainability, investments in research are critical to Arkansas’s rice industry,” said Jim Whitaker, board chair. “Rice assessment collections should be utilized to fund the best research and practical tools available for Arkansas rice farmers.”
The board received 49 proposals requesting more than $4.2 million in funding during the application period from Dec. 5, 2025, to Jan. 9, 2026. Board members made all funding decisions at open public meetings, having previously approved $2.86 million for five promotion projects on Feb. 4.
Major research areas include irrigation efficiency improvements using precision mapping and multiple-inlet systems, development of blast-resistant and water-efficient rice varieties, and economic analysis of Arkansas rice farms. The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture received $2.89 million for research projects, contingent upon assessment collections.
Several projects focus on practical farming challenges. Researchers will develop nitrogen management tools using tissue sampling and imagery data, evaluate new weed control strategies, and test drone applications for pest management. Other studies will examine how agronomic practices affect grain quality and milling characteristics.
G & H Associates received $60,000 for rice milling quality studies, while USDA-ARS secured $18,309 for water management research comparing irrigation practices that reduce emissions.
The board operates through assessments of 1.35 cents per bushel paid by buyers and producers. Buyer assessments fund market development and promotion, while producer assessments support extension and research activities.
The nine-member board consists of Arkansas rice producers appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Senate, plus four representatives from the rice merchant and milling industry. Members serve two-year terms.
