Story and photos
By Caleb H. Swallows
MALDEN -- Rice farmers from around the Southeast Missouri area met last week at the Missouri Rice Research Field in Malden to learn from experts and each other.
Southeast Missouri State University and the Fisher Delta Research Center were among the organizations providing information, including observations and tests from prior growth season.
Farmers began the day by sharing information about their own seasons and the outlook for the coming season.
The biggest problem this year could be dry weather, said Ben Nobles of Qulin, while Neelyville farmer Mike Somdy said concerns about commodity prices top his worries for the season.
Possible changes in labeling by the Environmental Protection Agency are also something farmers are watching, according to Mike Milam of Kennett.
Chad Mikel, administrator over Missouri Rice Research Field in Malden, explained farmers see many benefits from attending the field day.
"It's important that farmers attend this event for valuable knowledge." Mikel explained. "The rice farmers learn about variety tests, fertilization, herbicides, quality and rice breeding programs."
Mikel continued by explaining what he hopes farmers receive from their attendance.
"I hope that every farmers takes something they learned here home." Mikel said. "I want the farmers to learn about issues that they have encountered and how to fix the problems they face."
Many farmers attend this event on a yearly basis and look forward to the knowledge gained from the experience.
"This event is very important for us to attend." David Coblentz said. "Meeting other farmers and receiving tips from them is invaluable."
Not just farmers attend the event, but also businesses that want to support the farmers. Matt Romines of Balent U.S.A. explained the propose of coming to an event like the Rice Field Day as a business owner.
"It's good for us and the farmers to meet and communicate at these events." Romines explained. "We have different chemicals and products that farmers may not know about that could help them throughout their season."
Information pertaining to rice research was not the only item covered at the event. International trade was a large topic for farmers.
"International trade with other countries has been a big push this year. Specifically countries like Egypt and China." Greg Yielding, director of emerging markets of the United States' Rice Producers Association explained. "In one growing season, China's population could eat all rice produced in 13-15 days. This would be a big win for the rice producers for more security."
Throughout the morning, farmers went to seminars about herbicides, growth patterns and weed control.