Rice Stewardship: How Farmers and Conservation Work Together (Ep 813)

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Rice fields do more than grow food. They provide critical habitat for millions of ducks, shorebirds, and other wildlife across North America.

In the first installment of a special agriculture-focused series, host Dr. Jerad Henson is joined by Misty Adams, Kyle Soileau, and Regina Stafford of Ducks Unlimited’s conservation delivery team to discuss the Rice Stewardship Program and the role working lands play in waterfowl conservation.

The conversation explores how DU partners with rice producers across Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas, and California to deliver conservation practices that improve water efficiency, support wildlife habitat, enhance soil health, and help keep farmers profitable. The group also discusses incentive-based programs, water management technologies, conservation easements, and the future of rice production in a rapidly changing agricultural landscape.

Topics Covered

The origins of the Rice Stewardship ProgramWhy rice fields are critical waterfowl habitatWorking lands conservation in California and the Mississippi Alluvial ValleyWater management and irrigation efficiencySurface water vs. groundwater challengesWinter flooding and wildlife benefitsConservation incentives for rice producersThe future of rice farming and waterfowl habitatHow DU works with farmers to deliver conservation at scale

Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcast