A very important component of the overall rice extension program is the verification program. The Louisiana Rice Research Verification Program (LRRVP) began in 1997 in three parishes: Allen, Calcasieu and Jeff Davis. In 1998 the program was funded by the Louisiana Rice Research Board and expanded to ten parishes: Acadia, Avoyelles, Calcasieu, East Carroll, Evangeline, Jeff Davis, Madison, Morehouse, St. Landry and Vermilion. From 1999 to 2005, 73 fields were included in the verification program. In 2006 and 2007, eight fields were included.
The fields are visited at least weekly by a specialist, county agent or extension associate. Production practice recommendations are made by the specialist or agent. These recommendations include, but are not limited to, fertilization, weed control, disease control, insect control and water management to a limited degree. The fields are followed from planting to harvest.
Yield data are collected for each of the fields. Harvest moisture and test weight are determined at the time of harvest. Yields are then adjusted to 12% moisture for all fields. By using the same moisture meter for all fields, there is less variation from field to field.
Economic data continue to reveal large production cost differences between growers. It is also clear that more needs to be done to help farmers reduce production costs. These data are often the most difficult to collect because the farmer may apply the same recommendations to other fields, so separating the costs dedicated to the verification field alone can pose problems.
The program continues to provide an accurate evaluation of current recommendations and provide insight into other areas of research. The educational value of the program to all concerned (farmers, researchers and extension personnel) increases each year.
1 This project is supported in part by funding provided by rice producers through their check-off contributions to the Louisiana Rice Research Board.