The flat alluvial land of the Mississippi Embayment are ideal for growing rice. Today this is one of Arkansas's most important rice growing areas and one of the most important nationally.

Winter ricefield management protects wetlands from sediments and nutrients

Ducks Unlimited supports a program called RICE ( Rice Industry Caring for the Environment). This is a conservation program that encourages winter habitat needed for by wildlife, prevents soil erosion, and improves water quality.

A representative of Ducks Unlimited will meet us in near Jonesboro to explain the program and the process the conservation program. We will also observe the leveling of the levees to exactly 3 inches high using a laser beam to make the measurement precise. Some questions that you will need to find answers to follow.

1. How does rice farming improve water quality?

2. What are some of management practices to provide habitat for wintering water fowl?

3. How does rice farming prevent soil erosion?

A good web site to go to learn more about rice farming and some of the conservation practices that go along with it go to Rice Romp. This web site also offers lesson plans for middle school students.

Items needed - day pack, water, camera, notebook, and sunscreen.

Information

Arkansas' RICE Project
Ducks Unlimited, Inc.
1902 South Main Street, Suite 4
Stuttgart, Ar 72160
(870) 673-8781

As we leave this our first stop we will be traveling into the second physiographic region of Crowley's Ridge.
 
 

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