More than $3 million approved for rice research projects

The Arkansas Rice Research and Promotion Board approved $3 million in funding for 34 research projects across the state.

“To improve profitability and long-term sustainability, investments in research are critical to Arkansas’s rice industry,” said Jim Whitaker, Arkansas Rice Research and Promotion Board chair.

“Rice assessment collections should be utilized to fund the best research and practical tools available for Arkansas rice farmers. The Arkansas Rice Research and Promotion Board plays a critical role in assessing research project proposals presented for the benefit of our state’s farmers,” he added.

The board received 49 total proposals requesting more than $4.2 million in funding. The request for proposals was open from Dec. 5, 2025, to Jan. 9, 2026. On Feb. 4, the board approved $2.86 million in funding for five promotion projects. All funding decisions are made by board members at open public meetings.

Board activities are funded through an assessment of 1.35 cents-per-bushel paid by the buyer at the first point of sale on rice grown within the state or at the point the rice enters into the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) loan program.

Producers also pay an assessment of 1.35 cents-per-bushel of rice grown. The assessments paid by buyers must be used for market development and promotion. The assessments paid by producers must be used for rice extension and research.

The board consists of nine Arkansas rice producers appointed by the governor and confirmed by the senate. Four members must be designated representatives of the Arkansas rice merchant and milling industry. Members serve on two-year terms.