Pest Management Scientists conduct a number of integrated management studies on weeds, diseases, and insects. Biological and traditional chemical inputs are evaluated and tested. As workers test new herbicides at the Rice Research and Extension Center or at other locations, acceptable materials are included in rice weed control recommendations using a computer-based expert system for weed management. As part of this program, USDA and University researchers have developed the first commercial bioherbicide that uses a fungal disease to kill weeds in rice. In plant disease research, which plays a vital role in improving rice, breeders screen new field cultivars for resistance before releasing them as varieties.
Studies focus on rice blast, kernel smut, and sheath diseases.
Fungicide researchers test new compounds to develop more efficient management than those currently marketed for use on rice. Among other variables, they study the effects of fertilization rates, timing, and water in the rice field environment. Genetic engineering also is being used to develop methodology for transferring genes into rice varieties from unrelated plants or even other organisms that will improve disease resistance. Research on insects, such as that on the rice water weevil and rice stink bug, has provided scouting systems and damage thresholds that can be used to determine when insect populations are high enough to justify the expense of insecticide treatments. Studies are being done on determining the proper balance of nitrogen and other elements needed for optimum yields of rice.