Rice harvest is underway in Arkansas and extension specialist Jarrod Hardke says it’s earlier than normal. 

“There’s a lot more rice scattered around up and down the state, all the way up to the Missouri Bootheel, because of how early rice was planted. They can start this week.”

Hardke with University of Arkansas System Division of Ag Cooperative Extension Service tells Brownfield so far, rice yields have been good.

“Even some of these first fields, farmers have commented they thought they looked good, but weren’t sure from appearances. There’s been very solid yields within what they expect to make.”

He says the state average for rice yields is 170 bushels/acre and while good quality rice is expected, the crop’s quality won’t be fully known until more of it is harvested.  

Nationwide, USDA says 7% of the rice crop has been harvested, more than the usual rate.

Published Date: August 7, 2024