Sulphur – What The Yield Monitor Is Telling You

Presented by:  David Annis, CPAg, CCA, Market Development Manager, Tiger-Sul Products, LLC
Presented by:  Chuck Farr, President, Mid-South AG Consultants

Atmospheric data, crop deficiency symptoms and soil tests demonstrate farmers’ crops are not getting sulphur they need. Sulphur is necessary for chlorophyll formation, promotes nodulation in legumes, helps develop and activate certain enzymes and vitamins, and is a structural component of two of the 21 amino acids that form protein which directly influence yields. The relationship between nitrogen use efficiency and sulphur, soil testing and sulphur, sulphur fertilizers, fertilization rates, deficiency symptoms and much more from a practical crop production, as well as an economic standpoint will be explored.

Soil Health:  Lessons Learned In The Field

Presented by:  Emily Ball, Soil Health Educator with U.S. Regenerative Cotton Fund, Soil Health Institute
Presented by:  Zeb Winslow, North Carolina Farmer

A regional educational partnership was developed to encourage the adoption of soil health management systems on cotton acres throughout 9 states in the cotton belt. Working with local technical specialists, farmer mentors, and soil health educators, growers are provided locally relevant technical assistance, specific economic benefits of adoption, and guidance from experienced producers to ensure long-term success when adopting soil health management systems. Locally relevant benchmarks are also used to assess soil health by comparing indicators of soil health across different management systems.

Using Soil Moisture Sensors Across The Entire Farming Enterprise:  Lessons Learned From Those Who Are Doing It

Facilitated by:  Dr. Chris Henry, Associate Professor & Water Management Engineer, University of Arkansas
Facilitated by:  Dr. Drew Gholson, Assistant Professor/Extension Irrigation Specialist, Delta Research & Extension Center
Facilitated by:  Matt Morris, Arkansas Farmer

Utilizing Soil Moisture Sensors across the entire farming enterprise is challenging and is potentially a capital-intensive process.  Lessons learned from utilizing soil moisture monitoring, the successes, and pitfalls, will be shared in this farmer panel session.

Utilizing Rogue® SC In Herbicide Programs For Successful Weed Control In Southern US Rice

Presented by:  Lance Schmidt, Technical Service Representative, Gowan USA
Presented by:  Dr. Jason Norsworthy, Distinguished Professor & Elms Farming Chair of Weed Science, University of Arkansas
Presented by:  Dr. L. Connor Webster, Assistant Professor of Weed Science, LSU AgCenter
Presented by:  Jim/Scott Whitaker, Arkansas Farmer’s, Trinity Farms Partnership LLC
Presented by:  Terry Gray, Arkansas Farmer & Seed Company Owner, Thomas Gray Farms/Delaplaine Seed Company

This session will concentrate on the utilization of Rogue® SC into successful rice herbicide programs in the Southern US. Rogue® SC is a novel HPPD inhibiting mode of action rice herbicide and the only HPPD inhibiting herbicides used in Southern US rice. Rogue® SC, a pro-herbicide, is active only in floodwater and has no activity when applied to plant foliage or soil. Rogue® SC best management practices developed from research cooperators and on-farm learnings discussed in this session can provide useful insights on herbicide program planning, herbicide application, weed spectrum, and floodwater management.

Developing A Digital Strategy For Your Farm

Presented by:  Dr. Ed Barnes, Senior Director, Agricultural and Environmental Research, Cotton Incorporated

Large amounts of data now flow through agricultural equipment and there are increasingly more ways to capture site specific field characteristics. To generate value from these data, standard operation practices are needed, data have to be collected and stored in a central location and translated into management decisions. And then there are data backup and sharing issues that have to be addressed. In this roundtable, we will discuss what needs to be considered when developing a digital strategy for your farm and ask participants to share what has and has not work for their operations and provide questions to the experts in the room.

Understanding Your Soil Test Recommendations

Presented by:  Dr. Nathan Slaton, Associate Vice President for Agriculture & Assistant Director of the AAES, (SOIL) – Soil Testing, University of Arkansas
Presented by:  Dr. Rasel Parvej, Assistant Professor & Soil Fertility Specialist, LSU AgCenter
Presented by:  Dr. Vaughn T. Reed, Assistant Professor, Soil Fertility, Mississippi State University

Consistent high yield cotton and rice production often requires supplemental fertilization. In this roundtable, the details of how a soil test recommendation is constructed will be discussed. This information can be used to make more profitable fertilizer decisions.

Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions In irrigated Rice Using Hybrid Cultivars

Presented by:  Dr. Arlene Adviento-Borbe, Research Agronomist, USDA-ARS Delta Water Management Research Unit
Presented by:  Leandro Pasqualli, Director, Business Development, RiceTec, Inc.

Paddy rice has the highest global warming potential (GWP) among the major cereal crops. Field studies were conducted to determine the potential of hybrid rice cultivars to reduce GHG emissions in drill seeded rice systems under Furrow irrigation (RR) and conventional flooding (CF). Seasonal CH4 emissions decreased by ca. 80% in RR compared to CF irrigation with the greatest reduction in RT7521FP. GWP values decreased by ca.77% in RR relative to CF. This study shows that high yielding hybrid rice and RR irrigation can mitigate greenhouse gas emissions while sustaining rice grain yields.

Managing Troublesome Winter And Summer Annual Weeds With Residual Herbicides

Presented by:  Dr. Tom Barber, Professor & Extension Weed Scientist, University of Arkansas
Presented by:  Lawson Priess, Technical Service Manager, FMC

Italian ryegrass, Palmer amaranth and annual grasses drive weed management decisions in the Mid-south. In this session, speakers will provide a regional update and demonstrate the value of including residual herbicides in your weed management system.

Pest Management Update For Regional Crops

Presented by:  Dr. Ryan Bryant-Schlobohm, Technical Services Manager-South, UPL

This presentation provides an update on several pests and effective control options for key crops, including cotton, rice, soybeans, and corn. Each pest will include an overview of it’s economic significance, identification, biology, and management options within the respective crops. Discussion will center around weed management in rice, cotton, soybean, and corn, in addition to bollworm/podworm control in cotton and soybean.

Evaluation Of Miticide Efficacy For Control Of Two-Spotted Spider Mite (Tetranychus Urticae) In Mid-Southern U.S. Cotton Production

Presented by:  Dr. Chase Floyd, Crop Protection Specialist, University of Missouri

Only considered an occasional pest in most Mid-southern U.S. cotton producing states, the two spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae) (TSSM) is consistently observed in the Missouri bootheel region. Growers across the cotton belt are seeking answers for control of TSSM and limited data exists due to difficulty of pest colony natural establishment. Entomologist across the cotton belt have collected miticide efficacy data to better understand available miticide options for grower producers. These data will aid growers in management decisions for TSSM infestations.

Insect Management In Thryvon Cotton And Its Value

Presented by:  Dr. Ben Thrash, Extension Entomologist, University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service

This session will cover what to expect with Thryvon cotton and differences in tarnished plant bug management strategies between Thryvon and non-Thryvon cotton. We will also discuss the overall value of this new technology as well as potential changes in thresholds and insecticide programs.

Introduction Of Axant™ Flex Herbicide Tolerance Technology – The Latest Technology For Weed Control In Cotton, From BASF

Presented by:  Dr. Lucas Owen, Regional Agronomist North Delta, BASF

Weed resistance continues to cause issues for cotton growers in the Mid-South. BASF has a solution to help with the fight. Introducing Axant Flex Herbicide Tolerance Technology – the cotton industry’s first four-way herbicide stack. Axant Flex technology will be available to certified growers in select FiberMax® and Stoneville® cotton varieties for the 2024 season. In addition to the ground breaking weed control technology (pending regulatory approval for use on cotton), BASF will be introducing a complete line of native traits in new varieties across the cotton belt. Many of the varieties will have resistance to Root Knot and Reniform nematodes giving growers greater peace-of-mind when planting in nematode-infested fields.

Developing Commercially Usable Cotton With Resistance To Emerging Cotton Diseases

Presented by:  Dr. Jodi Scheffler, Research Geneticist, USDA-ARS
Presented by:  Dr. Don Keim, Retired Breeder / Consultant

Useful traits exist in wild or old cotton lines but require years to develop into elite lines usable to cotton breeders. This step, called pre-breeding, involves integration of wild or obsolete cotton traits into elite lines with agronomic traits similar to successful cotton cultivars, saving breeders years in developing improved cultivars for U.S. growers. This strategy works best with traits that are easily inherited such as disease resistance. Elite lines with resistance to cotton leaf curl virus or cotton leaf roll dwarf virus (cotton blue disease), are being developed through a unique approach utilizing genetic male sterility.

Frustrations Experienced With Verticillium Wilt In Cotton

Presented by:  Dr. Fred Bourland, Professor, University of Arkansas

Verticillium wilt is fungal-induced disease of cotton, which can limit production by progressively plugging the vascular system (“plumbing”) of the plant. Symptoms of the disease include wilted leaves, vascular discoloration and pre-mature boll opening. The disease is most commonly found on silt loam soils, but some exotic germplasm lines have expressed symptoms on the Sharkey clay soil at Keiser. This finding suggests that the pathogen may be widely spread on different soil types, that most varieties express some resistance, and that the disease may sometimes be associated with yield plateaus. Counter to common production practices in our area, incidence of the disease can be lessened by increasing plant rates (plant densities), reducing nitrogen, limiting irrigation, and lowering boll load! The Arkansas Cotton Variety Test at Judd Hill (near Trumann) provides an opportunity to evaluate varieties under relatively heavy Verticillium wilt pressure, and annually produces variation in leaf symptoms among varieties. Attempts to visually rate disease symptoms as a measure of disease resistance has been frustrating and often confounded by variation in crop maturity. Variation in ratings of leaf symptoms may be associated with variation in resistance, maturity and/or boll load. Relative yield over multiple years is used as an indicator of tolerance to the disease, but this measure has limited use in a selection program.

Using Drone Technology To Lessen Frustrations

Presented by:  Dr. N. Ray Benson, Assistant Professor, Agronomy & R.E. Lee Wilson Chair, Arkansas State University

Modern drone technology may provide a method to distinguish variation in Verticillium wilt resistance even before visual symptoms appear. Georeferenced thermal imagery can be used to measure canopy temperature at a sub-field level and may detect differences among cultivar plots. Progression of Verticillium wilt reduces plant water use efficiency and decreases transpiration. As a result, canopy temperatures will likely show variations related to the severity of disease progression. Thermal imagery may help identify potentially susceptible cultivars before plant stress or Verticillium wilt presents visual symptoms.

Evaluating Biologicals And Incorporating Poultry Litter Into West Tennessee Cotton Production

Presented by:  Dr. Tyson B. Raper, Cotton Specialist, University of Tennessee
Presented by:  Matt Griggs, Tennessee Farmer

Matt and Kelly Griggs operate Griggs Farm LLC, a Tennessee Century Farm located just outside Jackson, TN.  Mr. Griggs has been conducting trials with the University of Tennessee Extension Service for years but expanded his research efforts in 2015 to explore a large variety of agronomic inputs.  Mr. Griggs will be sharing his experiences and results incorporating poultry litter and using biological products.  Dr. Tyson Raper will provide additional research trial results from his research program evaluating the same practices.

Effectiveness Of AxantTM Flex Technology And Other Weed Control Options In Cotton

Presented by:  Dr. Tom Barber, Professor & Extension Weed Scientist, U of A Division of Agriculture

This presentation will discuss multiple weed management options in Axant^TM Flex Cotton Technology. In addition, herbicide programs will be evaluated across all cotton technologies based on weeds present and resistant weed levels.  The effectiveness of, fall herbicide programs, herbicide-coated fertilizers and alternative control methods for Palmer amaranth will be a key focus for participant interaction.

Cotton:  Always Expect The Unexpected

Presented by:  Tyler Hydrick, Owner, Ag Assistance, LLC, Jonesboro, AR

In an uncertain time anywhere you look, Tyler Hydrick, a “get to the point” cotton consultant based in Northeast Arkansas, will give his take on the ever-changing terrain that is the modern cotton industry. Extreme seed costs, variety & selection concerns, prices going south as the cost of production continues to go north, outside money flooding into the industry…all these and more will be covered during his presentation. Hydrick will also speak about his disdain for environmental groups and the burdensome shadow they and the Federal Government casts over the efforts of every producer to make ends meet. He will be joined by Dr. Tom Barber, an expert on weed science for the University of Arkansas Extension Office in Lonoke, Arkansas.

Overview Of Regenerative Cotton

Presented by:  Dr. Bill Robertson, Conservation Agronomist, CWC Farm

Since the introduction and use of pesticides and commercial fertilizers in cotton, growers have shifted their production philosophy toward increasing yield through the increased use of inputs. This philosophy is based primarily on producing high yields, while hoping to produce enough lint to cover expenses. In a regenerative agriculture production system, which is based primarily on profitability, growers can take advantage of improved soil biology, improved soil health, and improved rooting to maintain yield potential while using fewer inputs. Increased efficiency of inputs will help improve cotton’s profit potential.

Our Experience With Regenagri Certified Cotton

Presented by:  Marshall Hardwick, Louisiana Producer, Hardwick Planting Company

Hardwick Planting Company was the first cotton farm in the U.S. to be certified by Regenagri and partnering with J. Crew Group. Discussion will focus on practices employed on the farm to qualify for certification, the certification process, continuous improvement guidelines, and how this has impacted our bottom line. We feel it is important to invest in programs that will improve the health of our soil, our planet, and the people who inhabit it.

Cotton Insect Management Strategies

Presented by:  Dr. Whitney Crow, Assistant Professor, Mississippi State University

Current recommendations and new research focused on cotton insect pest management. Presentation will include strategies for controlling the most economically damaging pest in cotton which may include thrips, tarnished plant bug, cotton bollworm and/or other occasional or secondary pests.

The Management Needs Of The Modern King Cotton…

Presented by:  Tucker Miller III, Mississippi Consultant/Farmer, Miller Entomological Services, Inc.

The legendary crop of the American South has met the laboratories of modern agricultural research and development. Tucker Miller III, a member of the Mississippi Agricultural Consultants Hall of Fame, brings a half century of experience consulting and farming into his lecture at the Conference. He’ll be joined by Dr. Whitney Crow, a professor at Mississippi State University. They will address how the cotton market thrives on the variety of cotton developed by researchers and produced by growers. Miller and Crow will also highlight how important effective management is to the production of early, mid and late season crops. They’ll speak of the risks involved and how state extension services play a vital role in making disease management and insect control a success.

Experiences With The See & Spray:  Perspectives From A Weed Scientist And Cotton Grower

Presented by:  Dr. Jason K. Norsworthy, Distinguished Professor & Elms Farming Chair of Weed Science, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture
Presented by:  David Wildy, Arkansas Farmer, Wildy Family Farms

Dr. Jason Norsworthy, weed scientist with the University of Arkansas Systems Division of Agriculture, and David Wildy, cotton farmer in Mississippi County, Arkansas, will discuss their experiences with the See & Spray technology along with pros and cons of using the machine and targeted spray applications. A comparison of the See and Spray Ultimate and See and Spray Premium machines will be presented. The See and Spray Premium was used on more than 8,000 acres of cotton at Wildy Farms in 2023. David will show maps of sprayed fields and the associated spray savings.

Cotton Disease Identification:  From Seedlings To Maturity

Presented by: Dr. Tom Allen, Associate Extension Research Professor, Plant Pathologist, Delta Research & Extension Center

The major diseases impacting cotton from seedling diseases to those that impact more mature cotton plants will be covered.  Information related to seed treatment products as well as foliar fungicides for managing foliar diseases such as areolate mildew and target spot will also be briefly presented.

King Cotton…We’ve Got A Problem

Presented by:  Eric Bell, Tennessee Consultant, Bell Ag Consulting Service 

Bell, a consultant for 30 plus years, says that farmers are getting out of the cotton business. He estimates that if conditions don’t change for growers, the industry will be in a crisis state in a decade. With seed and equipment prices up 40-80% over the past five years, Bell asks the question “How do you keep the growers from leaving and prices from constantly escalating?” He’ll focus on the need of farmers to find new, cost controlling ways to do business. Bell also will confront the threat he believes corporate America poses to the cotton industry. He’ll be joined Dr. Tom Allen of Mississippi State University.

Improving Potassium Management In Cotton Production

Presented by:  Dr. Gerson L. Drescher, Assistant Professor, University of Arkansas

Cotton is widely cultivated on arable soils with limited potassium (K) availability and K loss by runoff is currently a challenge for profitable cotton production. In this presentation, details about cotton K deficiency, tissue-K concentration and yield responses to K fertilization will be discussed. Understanding crop responses to K nutrition is substantial in diagnosing deficiencies and developing efficient fertilization practices.

K Loss In Cotton

Presented by:  Steve Stevens, Arkansas Farmer, C. B. Stevens Farms Inc.

I have worked with Discovery Farm, on 4 cotton fields since 2012, P&N runoff levels have been measured at all rain and irrigation events for 12 years, K was added to the list in 2017. Although P&N runoff levels are very low, K levels are high, running at 40 lbs. per acre, this has been a complete surprise to be losing Potassium. We apply all Fertilizer after crop emergence, applying what the plant uses for a reasonable yield.

Turn Your Numbers Into Strategic Business Power

Presented by:  Alan Grafton, Principal, Pinion

With the number of factors limiting farm productivity today, it’s important to hone in on areas for improvement. Pinion agribusiness advisor, Alan Grafton, will discuss steps you can take to evaluate and manage your farm operation profitability to increase your margins and protect your legacy. Learn the recipe for creating true profitability and making valuable decisions.

Working With Renewable Developers/Easements & An IRA-NRCS Update

Presented by:  Quint Shambaugh, Principal, Pinion

Quint is a leader in water management and land services. He is heavily focused on project management, investor relations, economics, engineering, technology, sustainability/ conservation opportunities, and sub-contractor relations that support the agricultural land and water projects he oversees. Quint will give an overview of considerations, concerns, and tools at your disposal when dealing with renewable energy and other easement opportunities. Additionally, a synopsis of the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act on NRCS funding and its implications for your farm.

Late Season Rice Management

Presented by:  Dr. Jarrod T. Hardke, Rice Extension Agronomist, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture

Many factors influence rice grain yield and milling yield at the end of the growing season. Several factors will be discussed including fertility, drain timing, harvest aids, and harvest moisture.

Check-Off Programs And Accountability

Presented by:  Jim Whitaker, Arkansas Farmer, Whitaker Grain LLC / Trinity Farms Partnership LLC

Agriculture check-off programs date back over a half century, and today have accumulated over 750 million dollars in resources. But the programs have been the source of controversy in recent years, and Jim Whitaker will engage his audience asking this question…Where does all this money go? He’ll discuss USDA oversight practices, just who the decision makers are when the money is spent, and after a top-down review of check-off policy, determine whether or not they work for the farmer’s benefit. He’ll be joined by Dr. Jarrod Hardke of the University of Arkansas.

Rice Nitrogen Management:  What Is Protecting Your N From Loss?

Presented by:  Matt Fryer, Technical Agronomist – SE US & East Coast, Koch Agronomic Services  
Presented by:  Dr. Trenton Roberts, Professor & Soil Fertility Extension, University of Arkansas

Nitrogen volatilization loss in rice production can be severe, and not all volatilization inhibitors are created equal. Volatilization inhibitors have a competitive mode of action on the urease enzyme active site which means that the amount of active ingredient applied to the fertilizer really makes a huge difference on volatilization inhibition and ultimately yield. Volatilization and rice yield data comparing different urease inhibitors will be shown.

Update On USA Rice Sustainability & Leadership Development Programs

Presented by:  Dr. Steve Linscombe, Director – The Rice Foundation, USA Rice Federation

The USA Rice industry has a strong history of continuous improvement in all important sustainability metrics. These include greenhouse gas reductions, water use efficiency, land use efficiency, water quality, energy use reduction and biodiversity. All of this will be discussed as well as the Rice Leadership Development Program.

Rice, Irrigation & Conservation

Presented by:  Scott Matthews, Arkansas Farmer

With over three decades of experience under his belt, Matthews will speak on the lessons learned by operating a successful multi-site farming operation, in a region where rice dominates. Implementing management techniques like AWD with water sensors and AgSense technology to cultivate strong crops in a water challenged environment, to building your own reservoir and maintaining critical ground water, Matthews will focus on the essential role of irrigation to his farming success. He will share the stage with Dr. Steve Linscombe, who after 35 years with LSU, now works with the USA Rice Federation.

Will The Rice Price Simmer Down In 2024?

Presented by:  Milo Hamilton, President and Senior Economist, Firstgrain, Inc.

The rice market increased its price volatility in 2023. Will it follow the price pattern of the Russian/Ukrainian wheat markets, which rose up in 2022, then crashed in 2023.
So far, as of August 2024, USDA is forecasting a modest impact from the Indian rice ban on price, production or level of trade. The theory is that as rice price rises, import demand will cut back. There will be little or no panic stockpiling of rice.
Considering what happened during El Nino shortage situations in 1966, 1973/74, or 2008, the rice price in July/ August 2023 saw modest price gains.
At the 2024 Cotton & Rice Conference, I will update you on the rice market and the outlook for 2024.

Weed Management In Southern U.S. Rice

Presented by:  Dr. Jason A. Bond, Weed Scientist, Mississippi State University

Weed control is one of the primary inputs for rice production in the mid-southern U.S. Many challenges face rice growers in the area. Among these are off-target herbicide movement, herbicide resistance, and new production systems.

Nutrient And Water Management For Various Rice Production Systems

Presented by:  Dr. Hunter Bowman, Extension Rice Specialist, Mississippi State University

During this session attendees can increase knowledge on getting the most return from fertilizer applications. As well as, learn about water management for various rice growing techniques.

Effective Weed Control in Provisia® Rice.

Presented by:  Andrea Smith, Technical Service Representative North Delta

Regain weed control of your rice production with the Provisia Rice system. The Provisia Rice System provides excellent early-season control of ALS-resistant grasses, red rice, volunteer rice and other grasses, including barnyardgrass and sprangletop. BASF will discuss best practices and stewardship for the Provisia Rice system. Other BASF product updates will be given.

The Reasons Conservation Tillage Improves Soil Health

Presented by:  Dr. Ronnie Levy, State Rice Specialist / Associate Professor, Agronomy, LSU AgCenter

While many producers use some conservation tillage, there are many benefits that are overlooked. Organic matter, soil structure, and planting on time are just a few that will be discussed. Erosion and soil losses will also be included because of their importance in high yields.

Diversify To Make A Profit

Presented by:  Alan Lawson, Louisiana Farmer

A third-generation farmer in the Bayou Country, Lawson will speak about how poor soybean performance led him to rotate rice production and implement crawfish harvesting on his 2500- acre farm. This decision led to greater profitability for Lawson and enabled him to use his acreage for most of the year. Lawson will speak about the technique he developed to drain his land to harvest crawfish, and then go directly to the planting his spring crops. The graduate of LSU will be joined in his presentation by Dr. Ronnie Levy of the LSU Ag Center.

Performance Of New RiceTec Hybrids In 2023

Presented by:  Hayden Hambrick, Technical Service Representative, RiceTec, Inc.

In 2023, the RiceTec Technical Services Team conducted several replicated small plot trials in the Gulf Coast and Midsouth. Trials included optimum planting date evaluations, HighCard® tolerance and weed control studies, FullPage® tolerance, and seeding rate trials. Results indicated that RT7302, a new long-grain hybrid, outperformed XP753 consistently in Midsouth trials, but results were more mixed in the Gulf Coast locations. RT3202, a new medium grain hybrid, performed similarly to XP753 and out-yielded ‘Titan’ by 25-40%. RT7331 MA, a Max-Ace® hybrid, had the highest yield among all ACCase-tolerant entries, and RTv7231 MA outperformed PVL03 by 15-25%, depending on planting date.

Horizon Ag Provisia Rice Panel

Unified by a commitment to help southern rice farmers manage and steward the Provisia Rice System, university, extension, industry retail, BASF and Horizon Ag representatives met in 2022 to develop Best Management Practices (BMP) to minimize the potential threat of weedy rice outcrosses developing to the ACCase-inhibiting herbicide technology.

After the 2023 season, the group met again to analyze results from that effort, and to consider ways to manage new challenges farmers experienced with Provisia rice.

By and large, the 2023 growing season was a success for the Provisia Rice System and variety PVL03. Despite PVL03 acreage increasing to almost 30% of the state’s rice plantings, the weedy rice outcrossing issues identified the previous season were significantly reduced, as many farmers adopted BMPs recommended for the system. Those management practices included starting with a clean seed bed, spraying when weeds are small and actively growing, and using recommended residual herbicides.

Looking at 2024, the Provisia Rice panel will address key production areas, such as:

• Steps in the fall to control weeds and limit early competition
• Protect early season plant health with seed treatments and plant nutrition
• Seeding rate recommendations
• Temperature minimums for optimum herbicide application
• Comparing the advantages of three Provisia herbicide application vs. two applications
• Proper carrier volumes for ground and aerial applications.
• Zero tolerance” for weedy rice and red rice escapes.

It will present updated Best Management Practices for Provisia Rice for 2024, with the goal to help make farmers more productive and profitable while effectively stewarding the Provisia Rice System. Those recommendations will include both PVL03 and new PVL04, the first Provisia variety released by the University of Arkansas rice breeding program.

New, FMC Rice Herbicide Update

Presented by:  Dickie Edmund, FMC
Presented by:  Dr. Jason Norsworthy, Distinguished Professor & Elms Farming Chair of Weed Science, University of Arkansas
Presented by:  Dr. L. Connor Webster, Assistant Professor Weed Science, LSU AgCenter

Update on FMC’s new rice herbicide from university weed scientists from the Mid- south region. In this session, speakers will discuss their findings from studies including the novel herbicide.

Altering Seeding Rate And Other BMPs In Furrow-Irrigated Rice

Presented by:  Dr. Justin Chlapecka, Rice Extension Specialist, University of Missouri

It would be fair to say we’ve been flying by the seat of our pants and learning as we go when it comes to furrow-irrigated (row) rice. Should we be altering our seeding rate in row rice, or possibly exploring variable rate seeding? What about other practices? Join us to discuss year 2 of our research data on seeding rate and cultivar selection in row rice, management options from both a research and farm perspective, and what seems to be working the best in Missouri.

Lessons Learned From Growing Row Rice

Presented by:  Rance Daniels, Missouri Farmer, Daniels Farm Partnership

Rance, a third generation farmer in Dunklin, County, Missouri, will speak on the trials, tribulations and success of growing row rice. He’ll speak of the benefits that have come from learning what works…and what doesn’t in the row rice approach to growing, on his 2000 acres in the Missouri Bootheel. He’ll open up his session for a roundtable discussion, so everyone there can give their feedback on the topic. Dr. Justin Chlapecka of the University of Missouri’s Fisher Delta Research Center will join Daniels.

Insect Management Changes In Arkansas Rice Production

Presented by:  Nick Bateman, Extension Entomologist, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture

Multiple studies were conducted to determine the effectiveness of new sampling methods for rice water weevil as well as multiple control strategies. Assays were also conducted on rice stink bugs to determine tolerance levels to lambda-cyhalothrin along with multiple in-field efficacy trials to aid in management of potential resistance.

Patty Rice VS Row Rice…What To Plant

Presented by:  Wendell Minson, Missouri Consultant, Bootheel Crop Consultants

The longtime consultant with over a quarter century of experience advising rice growers, will address his audience about the nuts and bolts of decision making, when it comes to planting. The issue at hand is what rice to plant…row or patty. Joined by Nick Bateman of the University of Arkansas, the two men will speak about the costs row rice removes from the equation, when it comes to the need for levees. They’ll also raise the issue of the benefits of furrow irrigated rice production, and how the ability to rotate crops helps the bottom line.

Rice Market Outlook – The Swings In Supply And Demand

Presented by:  Dennis DeLaughter, Market Analyst, VantageRM, LLC

The issue most concerning for the rice market is not world supply but world supply availability. This past 6-months we have seen India put a scare into the Asian market that hasn’t been seen since the Thailand drought of 1987. This situation has put end users on notice that while there is no shortage of rice, there can be a shortage of available rice to cover their needs. We will cover this swing in supply along with the swing of demand we head for the 2024 crop year. Then there are the questions surrounding recession and how high operating interest rates will go before the FED tames inflation? We will cover these issues and more in the swings of supply and demand for rice in 2024.

Farm Policy Still Matters – Even If The Farm Bill Is Late, Budgets Aren’t Great And Trade Deals Wait

Presented by:  Fred Clark, Senior Consultant, Cornerstone Government Affairs

Congress is dysfunctional, but farm, food, and export policies continue to impact growers’ incomes and opportunities.  Join us for an update on what is ahead for farm policy in Washington, where funding opportunities lie for producers, and whether any meaningful progress is on the horizon for opening export markets.  We will also take an early look at how the 2024 elections may affect agriculture policy going forward.  Join us for a lively discussion!

Timing Of Soybean Harvest Aids:  How To Prevent Potential Yield Loss And Quality Problems

Presented by:  Dr. Jeremy Ross, Extension Agronomist-Soybean Professor, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture

Harvest aids have become a normal production practice for many soybean farmers in the midsouth U.S.  Some soybean producers continue to have questions on the proper timing of the applications of these harvest aids prior to maturity.  During this session, results from research conducted in Arkansas will be presented to address the proper timing of soybean harvest aids to maximize yield and prevent potential seed quality problems.  In addition, a soybean farmer will discuss his experience and perception of the use of harvest aids on his farm.

Harvesting Advice For Soybean Farmers

Presented by:  Wes Kirkpatrick, Arkansas Farmer, Rondo Farms

Kirkpatrick, a Staff Chair at the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, and a Southeast Arkansas farmer, will give his insights gained over the years on the subject of soybean harvesting. He’ll discuss different products he’s used as harvesting aids and talk about paraquat application. His bottom line is this…harvesting is a timing issue based on data, and when your “gut” tells you it’s time to go. He’ll be joined by Dr. Jeremy Ross of the University of Arkansas.

Advanced Planting Technologies:  Pros And Cons

Presented by:  Dr. Michael J. Mulvaney, Hartwig Endowed Chair for Soybean Agronomy, Mississippi State University
Presented by:  Matt Brignac, Mississippi Farmer, 4 B Planting, GP

We will discuss the pros and cons of advanced planting technologies. Research will highlight mechanical vs. precision planting at various planting speeds and their effects on plant stand, plant spacing and yield in corn and soybean. Experience with both flighted and brush belt systems will be addressed, as well as the use of precision planting technologies in cotton.

Soybean Response To Sulfur Rates And Sources

Presented by:  Dr. Rasel Parvej, Assistant Professor & Soil Fertility Specialist, LSU AgCenter
Presented by:  Dr. Josh Copes, Loan Officer/Farmer/Independent Crop Consultant, Cross Keys Bank

Sulfur (S) deficiency is becoming a major concern for crop production due to the atmospheric S deposition through rainfall has been reduced by 90% since the Clean Air Act was adopted. Another important source of S is soil organic matter that is also decreasing everyday due to tillage practices and high temperature and rainfall in the Mid-South. We established 35 research trials in 2023 to evaluate soybean response to 6 different S rates (0, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 60 lb S/acre) and 5 sources (ammonium sulfate, sulfur plus/gypsum, K-mag, tiger 90CR, and potassium thiosulfate). We collected soil samples at planting, tissue samples and vegetation indices at flowering, and seed yield and seed protein concentration at harvest. Results will be presented in the meeting.

What’s Left And Working For Soybean Weed Control?

Presented by:  Dr. Thomas (Tommy) Butts, Associate Professor, Extension Weed Scientist, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture
Presented by:  Hank Chaney, Arkansas Crop Consultant, Chaney Crop Consultant Services, LLC

Herbicide resistance is consistently increasing in numerous weed species across Arkansas, particularly in Palmer amaranth where chemical options are beginning to dwindle. Additionally, weeds like common cocklebur, sicklepod, and prickly sida (teaweed) are making a comeback, and Italian ryegrass and sedge species are quickly becoming severely problematic across the state further complicating our weed control efforts. This talk will explore current herbicide resistance concerns and distribution, current control strategies that have been effective both in research and commercially, and future control efforts to consider.

Soybean Breeding In The Mid-South

Presented by:  Dr. Caio Canella Vieira, Assistant Professor of Soybean Breeding, University of Arkansas

Challenges and opportunities in soybean breeding in the Mid-South, including cultivar release updates from the University of Arkansas Soybean Breeding program. Ongoing research efforts in breeding for resilience to biotic and abiotic stressors, as well as the implementation of novel technologies into our soybean breeding pipeline, will be presented.

Advancing Soybean Nematode And Disease Management Through Novel Seed-Applied Technology

Presented by:  Dale Ireland, Seedcare Technical Product Lead, Syngenta
Presented by:  Tripp Walker, Agronomic Service Representative, Syngenta

Agricultural economists estimate US soybean growers lose more to SCN and other nematodes than the next five soybean pathogens added together (Koenning & Wrather, 2010). Under moderate to heavy SCN field pressure TYMIRIUM® technology (0.075 mga/seed) seed treatment in soybean outperformed FLPM (0.075 mga) by an average of +2.3 bu/A. Under the same conditions TYMIRIUM technology (0.075 mga/seed) outperformed ABA (0.15 mga) by an average of +2.0 bu/A. TYMIRIUM technology also statistically reduces several early season diseases when compared to Check treatment.

Effects of Automatic Insecticidal Applications For The Control Of Lepidopteran Pests In Midsouth Soybeans

Presented by:  Dr. Tyler Towles, Research and Extension Entomologist, Mississippi State University

Experiments were conducted in Mississippi to determine the efficacy and overall value of automatic insect growth regulator (IGRs) applications for the control of certain lepidopteran pests in soybeans. The intent of these experiments is to determine if IGR applications during the automatic fungicide timing window provide residual control to prevent late-season lepidopteran pests from establishing. IGRs were applied as automatic applications with and without fungicide applications around the R3 to R4 growth stages. Insect counts were recorded at 7, 14, and 21 days after application. Additionally, insect bioassays were conducted to determine residual control and larval mortality levels in
a field setting.

Insect Control In Midsouth Soybeans

Presented by:  Dr. Sebe Brown, Research & Extension Field Crop Entomologist, University of Tennessee

Louisiana and Midsouth soybeans are affected by a diverse number of arthropod pests that compose different insect complexes. Presently, the most damaging complex of insects are stink bugs followed by pod feeding and defoliating worms. Differences exist among stink bug species’ ability to damage seed with Redbanded stink bugs being the most detrimental stink bug in Midsouth soybeans. Corn earworms and soybean loopers are the most difficult and costly lepidopteran insects to control. This presentation will highlight the use of a multifaceted approach to controlling yield limiting insects in Midsouth soybeans.

Commercially Available Biological Products Performance In Mississippi Soybean Production

Presented by:  Dr. Corey Bryant, Assistant Professor, Mississippi State University 

The number of biological products being marketed to soybean producers has led to an increase in questions regarding the productivity and feasibility of using biological products. Until this year researchers at Mississippi State University have generated limited amounts of data where biological products were evaluated. Therefore, in 2023 three different studies were initiated to evaluate multiple biological products that are currently commercially available to Mississippi growers or will be commercially available within the next year. In total there were 13 biological product treatments along with a treated and untreated control. The first study was conducted in small plots at three different Mississippi State University research farms to determine agronomic and economic response in varying soybean production systems and environments. Study two was conducted in growth chambers to determine the effect of temperature on soybean emergence when treated with the biological products. Study three was a small-plot field study conducted to determine physiological differences in soybeans treated with the biological products. Results from all three studies will be discussed during the session.

Using Information Wisely

Presented by:  Wayne Dulaney, Mississippi Farmer, Gen 4 Farms

Wayne wears more than one hat, managing a local seed company, and farming Gen 4 Farms, a 4th generation family operation in Clarksdale, Mississippi. In his career, he’s taken note of the fact that many farmers do not know how to analyze data and use that information for their benefit. He’ll talk about how he’s learned to take what modern statistics have to offer farmers, and how to make that a tool for their success in the field and on the bottom line. Joining Dulaney will be Dr. Corey Bryant of Mississippi State University.

New Tools For Nutrient Management In Corn

Presented by:  Dr. Trenton Roberts, Professor & Soil Fertility Extension, University of Arkansas

Corn has become a staple portion of the crop rotation across the Mid-south and more producers are interested in how to properly manage nutrients to optimize yield and productivity. Researchers and Extension personnel have worked diligently to develop new decision support tools to aid producers in corn nutrient management. These tools cover the gamut from preseason potash rate calculators to in- season tissue tests. Our presentation will cover the tools available to producers to help ensure their yields are not limited due to nutrient availability.

Utilization Of Tissue Testing Within The Corn & Grain Sorghum Research Verification Program

Presented by:  Chuck Capps, Corn & Grain Sorghum Research Verification Coordinator, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture

The goal of the University of Arkansas Row Crop Research Verification Program is to is to verify that management according to Division of Agriculture recommendations can result in increased profitability and sustainability for producers. With ever increasing costs of production, producers are continually looking for avenues to reduce input costs. To address this issue over the last four years in the Corn & Grain Sorghum Research Verification Program, we have utilized in-season plant tissue testing to make sure that we apply the needed amount of fertilizer at specific crop stages.

Performance Of Litter As An Alternative Fertilizer For High Yield Potential Corn Production

Presented by:  Dr. Jake McNeal, Assistant Professor-Corn & Soybean Extension Specialist, University of Tennessee
Presented by:  Dr. Shawn Hawkins, Professor & Extension Specialist-Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee

Since 2019, the University of Tennessee has conducted two multiyear studies assessing the performance of broiler litter as an alternative fertilizer for corn production. For corn in rotation with soybean, litter was tested as a complete fertilizer applied in the year corn was produced. This study revealed that while litter provides a range of minerals for corn and soybean, corn N deficiency can be expected even at high litter application rates. In a second study with continuous corn, litter was shown to perform most efficiently when applied at planting with subsequent split application of mineral N fertilizer.

What Can We Do To Improve Midsouth Corn Yields?

Presented by:  Dr. Erick Larson, State Corn Specialist, Mississippi State University Extension Service

Increasing corn yield potential depends upon managing cultural practices to address needs and having favorable environmental conditions to fulfill the crop’s potential. These cultural practices center around hybrid selection, planting practices and plant nutrition. However, our rainy, warm climate presents unique problems for producers growing corn in the Midsouth. While corn is typically responsive to irrigation or rainfall, we must also realize abundant water has negative consequences that present unique challenges which reduce yield and profitability. We will discuss key strategies to enhance our southern corn production systems, while minimizing risks with our climate.

Computerized Hole Selection And Implementation

Presented by:  Will Hart, Mississippi Farmer

With irrigation, one trick for saving time and money is utilizing computerized hole selection. Hart has implemented and operated such a system for nine years and has been very pleased with the results. He will explain the initial application procedure, overall benefits, and provide a brief cost analysis. Hart attended Mississippi State University where he studied Agricultural Engineering and Technology Business. A lifelong farmer, he works for his grandfather, Terry Maxwell, on Hope So Farms Inc. which includes 3,000 acres, with one-third dedicated to corn and the additional two-thirds to soybean production.

Using LADDER (Large Agricultural Database That Drives Extension And Research) And LIVE (Large-Plot Implementation Validation Experiment) To Increase Crop Productivity And Profitability At The Field Scale

Presented by:  Zach Reynolds, Research Project Manager, Mississippi Water Resources Research Institute

Big data capture and analytics may be foundational to addressing a multitude of research and Extension areas in the Mid-South. Analysis of large-scale, agricultural data can be used to determine the effects of agronomic practices, management philosophies, and environment on crop productivity and profitability. The LADDER program collects, processes, and securely stores geospatially specific agronomic and environmental data for the purpose of addressing research and Extension concerns. The LIVE program employs information from LADDER to formulate field-scale research experiments. These programs work in conjunction for the purpose of making precision agricultural data actionable and beneficial for growers.

Experienced Advice For The 21st Century Ag Producer

Presented by:  Ryan Moore, Principal, M&M Ag Consulting, LLC

Moore went to work in the ag industry right out of high school. He’s worked in every aspect of the business, from precision and agronomy management, to spending a number of years with John Deere overseeing dozens of dealers for the ag giant. Through his consulting company, he advises growers throughout Arkansas that own over 55,000 acres in the state. According to Moore, “every management decision has to make financial sense.” He’ll be joined during his presentation by Zach Reynolds, a research project manager for Mississippi State University.

Precision Agriculture Technology And Data Applications To Improve Cotton Production And Profitability In The Southeastern US

Presented by:  Dr. Simerjeet Virk, Assistant Professor and Extension Precision Ag Specialist, University of Georgia
Presented by:  Dr. Brenda Ortiz, Professor and Extension Precision Ag Specialist, Auburn University

With the availability of advanced technology and data solutions in agriculture today, precision application and management of crop inputs is becoming important to improve yield and overall profitability in cotton production. The rising cost of crop inputs – seed, fertilizer and chemicals – and the demand to strength environmental sustainability in recent years have emphasized the need to explore and utilize some of the digital technologies along with remotely-sensed crop and machine data to improve the efficiency of these crop inputs. The technology and information derived from these systems enable precise and efficient application of crop inputs to address spatial and temporal variability within the cotton fields. This session will provide various examples of the utilization of different agricultural technologies to support precision and data-driven applications related to planting, nutrient management, pesticide applications
and irrigation in cotton.

A Web-Tool To Inform Mid-Season Corn Nitrogen Management Using Drones

Presented by:  Dr. Aurelie Poncet, Assistant Professor of Precision Agriculture and Remote Sensing, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture
Presented by:  Dr. Jason Davis, Application Technologist, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture

Technology adoption through precision agriculture can help improve scouting efficiency, and ultimately optimize crop management. Previous research demonstrated that canopy greenness measured using inexpensive drones and the Dark Green Color Index (DGCI) can be used to assess mid-season corn nitrogen status. Calibration equations were created to compare mid-season field DGCI values to that of a nearby high-nitrogen reference and predict yield loss from nitrogen deficiencies. A web-tool was developed to simplify the process and make results available to producers, crop consultants, and county extension agents. Tool functionalities will be demonstrated as part of this presentation.

Using Conservation Tillage And Cover Crops To Reduce Irrigation Water Use

Presented by:  Carson Roberts, Graduate Research Assistant, Mississippi State University 

Conserving soil moisture can reduce water use in irrigated cotton, and it is a key component of improved yield in dryland cotton production. Three years of research in Stoneville, MS has consistently proven that conservation practices (i.e., no-till and strip-till) improved soil moisture throughout the cotton growing season. Soil moisture was increased further when cover crops were added to a system. Improved soil moisture has led to reduced irrigation without a yield penalty.

Common Sense Farming And Ag Policy That Works

Presented by:  Sledge Taylor, Mississippi Cotton Farmer & National Agricultural Leader, Como, MS

Whether he’s testifying before the U.S. House Ag Committee, or standing in his NW Mississippi cotton fields, people listen when Sledge Taylor talks. Known nationally for his pioneering work in soil conservation, Sledge’s career has been a combination of success in the fields and influence in the corridors of power where ag policy is made. He’ll speak on many topics, including the benefits of No Till farming, maintaining healthy soil by utilizing cover crops and how hands on experience is one of the cornerstones of building a profitable farming operation. He’ll be joined by Carson Roberts of Mississippi State University.

Digging Into DIRT:  A New Irrigation Scheduling Tool For Furrow Irrigators

Presented by:  Dr. Stacia L. Davis Conger, Assistant Professor/State Irrigation Specialist, LSU AgCenter

The Drought Irrigation Response Tool (DIRT) is an integrative platform that assists farmers in making irrigation scheduling decisions during the crop season. This tool was created to not only assist farmers with irrigation decisions during drought years, but every year. Once logged into the webtool, irrigation sets can be added as appropriate. The webtool pulls weather data, calculates reference evapotranspiration and rainfall totals, and estimates soil moisture status for each field independently. During this presentation, the webtool’s predictions will be compared to multiple on-farm sensor demonstrations conducted during the 2023 drought.

Reviewing Irrigation System Efficiencies On Diesel Powered Engines For Irrigated Fields In Louisiana

Presented by:  Jacob Paul, Supervisory Area Engineer – Louisiana, USDA-NRCS

This project includes reviewing results of diesel-powered turbine well efficiency tests to make decisions on driveshaft speeds and resulting water output.  This information helps make irrigation decisions based on costs and equipment present on each irrigation system.  The discussion will focus primarily on typical irrigation configurations, along with reviewing the effects of multiple groundwater sources within the same pipeline. Tests have shown efficiencies vary, but site-specific information should be incorporated into each pumping plant design.

Drones As An Irrigation Water Management Tool

Presented by:  Mike Hamilton, Instructor-Irrigation Educator, UADA

Drones are increasing in popularity over the agriculture fields due to the potential for labor savings.  Producers and crop consultants are looking for ways to cut costs not only scouting the crop but also in field preparation for the following crop.   Real-time kinematic positioning (RTK) used by some drones gives amazing accuracy.  During this session I will be discussing the use of drones for field preparation for irrigation designs using the elevation and special imagery for field design for both irrigation efficiency and drainage.

Drainage Tile, Experiences & Expectations

Presented by:  Perry Galloway, Arkansas Farmer

After researching drainage tile over twenty years ago. Mr. Galloway, along with the cooperation of ADM, installed over 225 acres of tile on his farm in 2023. He will share with you his experiences the first year, along with his expectations in upcoming seasons. Mostly a Midwest practice, tiling offers many benefits besides drainage that we hope to see in the mid-south.

Different Furrow Irrigation Spacings On Corn In Sharkey Clay Soil

Presented by:  Dr. Drew Gholson, Assistant Professor & Extension Irrigation Specialist, Delta Research and Extension Center

In the Mississippi Delta, over 40% of the available land is classified as clay soils. Corn is mainly produced on sandy loam to silt loam textured soils. The recent economic returns of corn have led producers to start putting clay soils under corn production. Clay soils frequently flood and waterlog; it has been reported that each day waterlogging occurs corn can lose between 5-30% of yield depending on the stage of growth. The overall objective of this research is to determine whether altering irrigated furrow spacings on Sharkey Clay soils can reduce flooding and waterlogging to better benefit corn yield. An on-station study at the National Center for Alluvial Aquifer Research and an on-farm study located in Glen Allan, Mississippi was conducted over three years; 2021, 2022, and 2023. The on-station trial was arranged as a randomized complete block design with four replications. Furrow irrigation spacing treatments included Every Row Irrigation, Skip Row Irrigation, 4-Row Skip Irrigation, and 8-Row Skip Irrigation. The on- farm trial treatments included 10ft, 20ft, and the Tractor Track (TT) Treatment. Over the three years of on-station yield data the 8-Row skip treatment in the top half of the field was higher than the Skip Row Treatment by 11%. The on-farm trial showed that irrigation spacing had no effect on corn yield.

National Center For Alluvial Aquifer Research – Improving Aquifer Health And The Farming Enterprise

Presented by:  Dr. Chris Delhom, Supervisory Research Engineer, USDA-ARS Sustainable Water Management Research Unit

The National Center for Alluvial Aquifer Research (NCAAR), a joint effort of USDA-ARS and Mississippi State University is undertaking research focused on improving aquifer health through a variety of research efforts including managed aquifer recharge, irrigation automation, sensor use, and conservation practices. Research efforts are all focused on maintaining or improving farm profitability while improving the health of the aquifer.

Pivot Your Irrigation Strategies:  Managing Overhead Vs. Furrow Irrigation

Presented by:  Dr. Dave Spencer, Assistant Professor, Mississippi State University 

Most irrigation recommendations in the mid-south were developed based on furrow irrigation; however, many growers still employ pivot irrigation. Overhead irrigation systems require different strategies and considerations than furrow-irrigated systems. This presentation will discuss how irrigation management should differ between pivot and furrow irrigation.

Irrigation:  Challenges & Choices

Presented by:  Hunter Talley, Mississippi Farmer, Talley Planting Company

The practice of Irrigation began in ancient Egypt, with Its modern form taking shape beginning in the mid 1800’s. Mississippi farmer Hunter Talley will take on the topic of what’s the best way today to irrigate row crops…by using either Drop or Conventional Pivots. He’ll address subjects like nozzle size and placement, and how water evaporation issues are driving the debate in this area. The bottom line? What’s the most cost-effective way to water your crops? Joining Talley during his presentation will be Dr. Dave Spencer of Mississippi State University.

Field-Scale Greenhouse Gas Emissions And Water Quality In Mid-South Rice Production

Presented by:  Dr. Michele L. Reba, Research Hydrologist, Acting Research Leader, USDA-ARS/Delta Water Management Research Unit
Presented by:  Jerry Don Clark, Producer, Clark Farms, Otwell, AR

A study combining irrigation management in rice/soybean rotation at the field-scale was undertaken in 2022 and 2023 in collaboration between Arkansas producers Jerry Don and Tommy Clark, USDA-NRCS, and USDA-ARS-Delta Water Management Research Unit. The study fields were part of a larger farm operation near Otwell, AR. The study aimed to link runoff water quality and measured greenhouse gas emissions. During the rice year of 2023, irrigation water management treatments were multiple-inlet, and multiple-inlet plus alternate wetting and drying (AWD). AWD allows the applied irrigation water to subside until the field gets to a “wet mud” state at which time the field is re-flooded. Conventional flooding maintains a constant flood on the crop from the V4-V5 growth stage (4-5 leaf stage) until the R7 growth stage. Several parameters were measured throughout the field season and include water applied, production costs, greenhouse gas emissions, runoff water quality (including excess nutrients and sediment), yield, and plant growth. Understanding how emissions are related to runoff water quality will help link these two important parameters together, especially in this era of climate smart efforts across the globe.

The New Climate Smart Row Rice, 60% Less Water And Nitrogen With Same Yield

Presented by:  Dr. Chris Henry, Associate Professor and Water Management Engineer, University of Arkansas

A patented pitless recirculating pump system (PRPS) was installed at the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Northeast Rice Research and Extension Center.  The purpose of the study was to demonstrate at a large field scale how the implementation of the PRPDS can maintain furrow irrigated rice production using less water and nitrogen.  A documented yield gap of 16 BPA currently exists between FIR and flooded rice production systems.  The PRPS was used to fertigate (1) 32% Urea Ammonium Nitrogen (UAN) and (2) YaraLiva UCAN-23 (Nitrate-N 8%, Ammonium-N 5%, urea-N 10%, and 4% Ca).  Two paired fields (side-by-side, equal slope, 45 and 50 acres, respectively) were both planted on the same date with RiceTec FP 7521 hybrid.  The control field (45 acres) was conventionally furrow irrigated (every 3-5 days based on soil-moisture sensor readings) with 180 lbs-N/ac (applied in four equal aerial applications).  The control field’s water and nitrogen use was compared to the experimental field (50 acres), incorporating the PRPS (where irrigation water was recirculated continuously during the growing season).  The PRPS-equipped experimental field utilized liquid fertilizers applied via fertigation weekly, starting at 5-6 leaf until boot.  The PRPS experimental field yielded 6.2 bu/ac more than the control field, although the yield difference was insignificant (p=0.12).  Normalized Differential Vegetation Index aerial maps and GreenSeeker^Ò measurements were used to determine subsequent weekly liquid fertilizer volume. A total of 77 lbs-N/ac was applied via fertigation over five weeks versus 180 lbs-N/ac for the control field.  Water use was greatly reduced, with the pitless tailwater system applying 9.7 ac-in/ac and the control 25.6 ac-in/ac.  Methane, carbon dioxide, and nitrous oxide emissions were measured during the study using Eddy covariance (near real-time measurements) devices and standard manual chamber collection methods.  The PRPS for water management and weekly fertigation of nitrogen shows promise in reducing overall water and nitrogen use and provides a unique opportunity to address mid-season nutrient deficiencies that are often difficult to correct.

Generation To Generation…The Challenges and Successes Of Rice Farming

Presented by:  Matt Morris, Arkansas Farmer

His Great-Great Grandmother grew the first successful rice crop in Arkansas at the turn of the century. Today Matt Morris monitors the oldest rice farm in the world of the Razorbacks, by laptop and the use of telemetry from the passenger seat of his pick-up. Emma Morris lost her husband at a young age and the rice farm survived and flourished. Matt Morris will speak on his current battle with critical ground water conditions and keeping his legacy rice farm operational by maximizing water efficiency. He’ll be joined by his academic colleague in this effort, Dr. Chris Henry of the University of Arkansas.

Estimated Savings When Using Remote Pump Shutoff For 30-, 60- and 90-Well Farm Operations

Presented by:  Dr. Joseph Massey, Research Agronomist, USDA-ARS

Estimates of labor, energy and water savings associated with remotely operated pump-shutoff systems will be presented. Different break-even cost scenarios of current pump automation technology will also be discussed.

The View From The Desk…And Now The Field

Presented by:  Scott Whitaker, Arkansas Farmer, Trinity Farms Partnership LLC

A member of the legendary family who’ve farmed Northeast Arkansas land for nearly two centuries, Scott will speak about making the transition from consulting to becoming a rookie farmer. He’ll reflect on going to the bank for the first time, learning how to set up your business model and at the same time concentrate on the field and not data. He’ll give practical advice on how to handle the inevitable ups and downs the rice farmer will confront. He’ll be joined by Dr. Joe Massey of USDA-ARS.

The Latest In Agronomy And Crop Protection At Corteva Agriscience

Presented by:  Chris McClain, Market Development Specialist, Corteva Agriscience
Presented by:  Greg Pfeffer, Field Agronomist, Corteva Agriscience

Greg Pfeffer, Field Agronomist, and Chris McClain, Market Development Specialist Crop Protection, will share updates on the latest in agronomy and crop protection at Corteva Agriscience. These experts will dive into topics like Pioneer® brand Enlist corn, nematode resistance in PhytoGen® cottonseed, crop protection solutions to fit your grower’s farming operation, and more. Be sure to tune in for this comprehensive session from Corteva.

How AGROCETE Can Help In Your Crop Management To Increase Yields And Profitability

Presented by:  Dr. Luiz Antonio Michelini, US Technical Manager, AGROCETE AGROSPECIALITIES LLC

AGROCETE US is a multinational company, with offices in Houston, TX, Mexico, Paraguay, Uruguay, Central America, and Brazil. We are an international reference in the area of adjuvants, physiological, biological and nutrition. The company is a pioneer in the production of special fertilizers and inoculants in South and Central America and stands out for innovation and technological advances from the laboratories to the production. We have strong and deep roots in Agriculture. We offer innovative solutions in plant nutrition and physiology to potentialize the results and success of the farmers. This is our commitment to them. Family origin is our essence, Agriculture is our guide, technical excellence is our goal. These are the ingredients that enable us to offer the farmers the best and newest technologies to expand their achievements. We are together with the farmers, we understand their problems, we are their partner in this essential journey for life and for the economy of their country and the world. In the end, Agriculture is our history, our life, our future. Agriculture, what we are … From the ROOTS!