AgFax Rice - Louisiana

By AgFax Media LLC, AgFax.com

OVERVIEW 

Harvest has nearly wrapped up across a wide part of Texas and southwest Louisiana. In Texas, storage capacity may be running short. 

In the Midsouth, harvest went on hold across a wide area after heavy rains developed late last week and into the weekend. Upwards of 12 inches fell in northeast Arkansas but storms also moved across parts of Missouri, Louisiana and Mississippi.

Rice stink bugs remain a player in later rice in the Delta. As more rice finishes heading, the insects are concentrating on later fields that are still green.

LOUISIANA CROP REPORTS

Ashley Peters, Peters Crop Consulting, Crowville, Louisiana:

"By the end of this week we will have drained everything, I think, and a few guys may try to cut some next week. Everyone is pushing to finish corn and prep soybeans for harvest, so no one is moving towards cutting rice right now (8/20).

"We've had rain but have generally gotten off light compared to other parts of the Delta. Over the past 5 days (from 8/20), we've had 60% to 80% chances but only received a few tenths in places. But then 2.5 inches fell yesterday and last night in some areas."

Dustin Harrell, Louisiana Rice Extension Specialist, LSU Rice Research Station, Crowley:

"Harvest season is wrapping up in southwest Louisiana. I wouldn't be surprised if 85% has been cut. Some growers have completely finished with the main crop.

"Yields have still been good, although averages in certain fields have not been quite optimal. As far as the ratoon crop goes, we're in that gray area. Ideally, rice should be cut by August 15 for the best shot at good ratoon yields. Running up to September 1, we recommend backing down on nitrogen and also consider skipping any stubble management. By September, we don't recommend stubble management at all.

Harvest has started in northeast Louisiana and is progressing. Yields there have been strong, as well."