The smart way to listen and learn
Jan 21, 2021
OAK GROVE, LA -- The Northeast Louisiana Row Rice meeting was held here Tuesday morning and was a hybrid get-together, with area growers and extension staff meeting both in-person and virtually to view the presentations. The Thomas Jason Lingo Center hosted, with social distancing and precautions in place.
In attendance for one of the first in-person meetings in quite some time were a small group of NELA rice growers, Louisiana State University (LSU) AgCenter extension staff, and industry representatives.
Dr. Melissa Cater, northeast regional director for the LSU AgCenter, welcomed everyone and thanked the extension team for their efforts in preparing a safe venue with the physical set-up at the venue plus a virtual viewing option.
Each research presentation was done live and also was recorded for viewing online. LSU researchers shared the latest information for the upcoming planting season with a concentration on the row rice production system, a rapidly growing practice for rice growers in the NELA region. Topics covered included diseases, irrigation, fertility and weed management, market updates, and a USA Rice update on current industry issues and events.
“While we were a small group, it was really nice to get together with some of our members and the extension staff, and catch up with everyone,” said Kane Webb, USA Rice director of field services. “Virtual meetings have been good to keep communications ongoing within the industry, but nothing beats connecting with our membership face-to-face.”