The dry weather, while helping planting, has hindered seed germination. Koen said some farmers may need to flush, or run water across fields. Flushing will also be needed to incorporate soil-applied herbicides. Arkansas rice farmers planted about 1.4 million acres of rice last year, more than 40 percent of the nation s total rice acreage. Koen said the crop is predicted to be slightly smaller this year.
Rice prices are a little low, similar to last year.
Medium grain prices are expected to be quite low this year. We re expecting a reduction in medium grain acreage, he said. Cocodrie is expected to be our largest planted variety. Last year, Drew was our largest variety in acreage. Cocodrie will replace a lot of Drew and Cypress.