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LITTLE ROCK — Arkansas Gov. Mike Beebe signed a proclamation on Sept. 16 officially declaring September National Rice month, recognizing the significant contributions of the state’s rice industry to the environment and to the economy.

The governor was joined by rice industry leaders, including representatives of the USA Rice Federation, the Arkansas Rice Council and the Arkansas Rice Federation.  Miss Arkansas Rice county winners were also on hand for the event.

“We are pleased that Governor Beebe would take time to recognize the importance of the rice industry to the state and happy to be part of this event,” Arkansas Rice Council VP Steve Orlicek said.

Arkansas is the nation’s largest rice-growing state, producing nearly 9 billion pounds annually.

Sponsored by the USA Rice Federation, National Rice Month recognizes the contributions of the U.S. rice industry to the American economy.  The celebration is in its 19th year.

Photo: Arkansas Rice Federation Executive Director Ben Noble, left, poses with Gov. Mike Beebe during the event.