Texas is the fifth largest rice producing state in the U.S. Rice farming here is commonly done by families that have been doing it for multiple generations. However, competing demands for water and other pressures from pests are year over year diminishing the acreage for rice in our state. Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension scientists in the Department of Soil and Crop Science are committed to performing and communicating the research needed to support rice farmers, driers, and millers. In Texas, rice is not a crop, it is a culture.
Our Rice Extension program is dedicated to providing rice growers with the latest research and best practices for successful rice production. Through workshops, field trials, and tailored resources, we empower rice farmers with the knowledge and strategies needed to optimize yields and quality, ensuring a thriving rice industry in our region.
Key projects led by Dr. Jake Mowrer focus on the reduction of water use in rice without loss of yield or quality to lower input costs for farmers. Funding for these projects comes from the United States Department of Agriculture – Natural Resource Conservation Service.
Research is being conducted at Beaumont and Wintermann (Eagle Lake, TX) research and extension stations, as well as with cooperator farmers on commercial rice farms. Researchers supporting the projects include AgriLife researchers Dr. Sam Rustom, Dr. Fugen Dou, and independent collaborator Dr. Gitta Pap.
Objectives of projects includes:
- Evaluate the effect of Alternate Wet Dry Irrigation (AWD) on water savings and rice grain yield and quality.
- Evaluate the effect of AWD on fertilizer use efficiency, pest issues, and soil carbon.
- Work directly with the rice farmers, millers, and driers to understand historic and emerging issues that the community faces, and communicate new research in soil, agronomy, and social sciences.
Faculty and Staff
Jake Mowrer
Extension Professor
Soil Nutrient & Water Resource Management
Dr. Gitta Pap
Independent researcher at Timsel27 LLC
Research Participation Information
- Divya Ghangas – graduate student
- Madhurya Poondla – graduate student
Learn More About Extension in Soil and Crop Sciences
Extension in soil and crop sciences plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between scientific research and practical implementation, facilitating knowledge transfer from experts to farmers. This field focuses on disseminating cutting-edge information, innovative technologies, and sustainable practices to enhance crop production and soil health. Agricultural extension services provide farmers with the tools and resources needed to make informed decisions, optimize yields, and mitigate environmental impacts. These services encompass a wide range of topics, including soil management, crop selection, pest control, and conservation practices. By engaging with farmers through workshops, field demonstrations, and personalized consultations, extension professionals contribute to the development of resilient and productive agricultural systems. The ultimate goal is to empower farmers with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the challenges of modern agriculture while promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship.