September is National Rice Month, and rice harvest is well underway in southeast Missouri.
Photo credit: Zack Tanner, MRRMC Member
The Missouri Rice Research and Merchandising Council is proud to join rice-producing states across the country in celebrating September as National Rice Month, recognizing the contributions of Missouri’s rice farmers and the vital role rice plays in the state’s agriculture economy.
National Rice Month, established by Congress in 1991, brings awareness to the importance of rice farming in the United States. Missouri ranks as the fourth-largest rice-producing state, harvesting nearly 200,000 acres annually, with production centered in the Bootheel region.
“This month is an opportunity to celebrate the hard work of Missouri rice growers and highlight the value they bring to our state,” said Rance Daniels, chairman of the Missouri Rice Council and a rice producer from Southeast Missouri. “Our farmers are growing a high-quality crop that feeds families across the country and supports rural communities right here at home.”
Missouri-grown rice is primarily medium- and long-grain varieties, well-suited for domestic consumption and export markets. The state’s rice is known for its consistent quality and is used in a wide range of products, from packaged rice and frozen meals to beer and pet food.
The Missouri Rice Research and Merchandising Council, a checkoff funded organization, owns and operates a 110-acre research farm near Glennonville and oversees promotional activities for the Missouri rice industry. The council was founded in 1984.
Mollie Buckler, president and CEO of US Rice Producers Association, praised Missouri’s rice industry for its continued leadership and innovation.
“Missouri rice growers are an essential part of the U.S. rice industry’s strength and success,” Buckler said. “Their commitment to sustainability, quality, and community engagement is a model for producers across the country. National Rice Month is the perfect time to celebrate their contributions and the important role they play in global food security.”
The Missouri Rice Research & Merchandising Council encourages consumers to support local farmers by choosing Missouri-grown rice and trying new rice recipes at home. For more information about Missouri rice and the Missouri Rice Council events, visit www.missouririce.com or follow @eatMOrice on Facebook.
