This week the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Center in collaboration with the Texas Rice Council, hosted the first virtual Western Rice Belt Production Conference. The conference had 146 unique views and attendees logged on from all across Texas, and even gained some international viewers from Mexico, Uruguay and even Pakistan!

Presentations included:

• Dr. Muthu Bagavathiannan - Basics of Herbicide Resistance Development in Weeds
• Dr. Ted Wilson - Rice Varieties & Current Breeding Programs
• Dr. Mo Way - Insect Management
• Melissa Barton - TDA Pesticide Laws & Regulations Update
• Joe Outlaw - Cost of Rice Production
• Dr. Thomas Wynn - Rice Market Outlook
• Dr. Michele Reba - Rice Water Efficiency

Attendees also heard from Tommy Turner, retired rice farmer, about projects that the Texas Rice Council and US Rice Producers Association are taking on to that have helped rice farmers in Texas and throughout the US market and sell their rice.

Sponsors and other organizers, including Galen Franz, Chairman of the Texas Rice Research Foundation, Tim Walker from Horizon Ag, Dennis Neuman with Ducks Unlimited and the USA Rice Federation were also featured during the conference.

Finally, Bob Little and Dr. Mo Way, were both recognized for their contributions in their many years serving the Texas rice industry. Attendees sent messages of appreciation and congratulations to both gentlemen and we will surely be missing them but wish them the best in their retirement!

While attendees miss the in-person meetings for the camaraderie and networking, comments were overwhelmingly positive:

“I thought the virtual program went quite well. It was easier to follow the presenter and slides. Look forward to be able to review the presentations at a later time. But I do like the traditional face to face meeting better.”

“Enjoyed the program very much. Best wishes to everyone and stay healthy.’

The conference will continue to be available On-Demand for the rest of the month.