The LSU AgCenter will hold a field day focusing on best management practices for rice production Sept. 26 in Kaplan.

The event will showcase work AgCenter scientists are conducting through a grant from the Patrick F. Taylor Foundation. It will take place at one of the four model farms taking part in the grant project — Richard Farms, located at 5632 Louisiana Highway 700. Registration will begin at 9 a.m.

This field day will cover a comprehensive range of topics related to best management practices for soil fertility in Louisiana rice fields. Topics will include:

— Cover crop and nitrogen management effects on rice productivity.

— Water quality monitoring in rice systems.

— Precision agriculture technologies, including using drones to monitor rice health.

— Economic perspective on conservation tools.

— Cost-share opportunities from the Natural Resources Conservation Service.

— The Louisiana Master Farmer Program.

In-field tour

Participants will be transported in wagons to each stop on the field tour, providing an immersive experience of best management practices directly in the fields where the research is being tested. Following the field tour, attendees will be invited to gather indoors to hear more updates.

A complimentary lunch will be provided, offering an opportunity for networking and further discussion of the day’s topics.

Related:Hydrogen sulfide toxicity in rice

The Patrick F. Taylor grant has established model farms within commercial agricultural operations to showcase science-based best management practices for grain crops and sugarcane.

These practices are designed to enhance both economic and environmental efficiency as part of broader conservation programs. Ultimately, the project aims to decrease the amount of nutrient runoff entering rivers and flowing into the Gulf of Mexico.

For questions about the event, contact Brenda Tubaña, AgCenter soil scientist, at 225-578-9420 or [email protected]. To learn more about the grant project, visit www.LSUAgCenter.com/taylorgrant.

Source: Louisiana State University AgCenter