CROWLEY, LA - Rice harvest in southwest Louisiana came ahead of time this year – starting as early as June in some fields. Harvest progress varies by location, but overall, the region is estimated to be 75–85 percent complete. Yields ranged from very good to disappointing, averaging slightly below historical levels overall. Blast disease has affected some fields, particularly medium grain rice, reducing yields in certain areas.
Although milling reports remain limited, early results have been encouraging, with several samples exceeding 60 percent head rice. Kasey Panelli of Supreme Rice said this has been the smoothest harvest in the seven years the company has operated its custom harvest program.
Much of the region's rice was planted in mid- to late February, with most of the remaining acreage planted during March. However, rainfall in May was unusually heavy, with 13.23 inches recorded at the H. Rouse Caffey Rice Research Station in Crowley. Rice planted in February generally appeared to suffer more from the prolonged wet, cloudy conditions.
"I estimate that at least 75 percent of southwest Louisiana's rice has been harvested,” said LSU AgCenter rice specialist Tyler Musgrove. “For the most part yields look to be average and early milling reports have been promising."
Several large producers have already completed first-crop harvest. B.D. Fontenot of Nutrien, who works in the northern portion of the southwest Louisiana rice region, estimates the harvest there is about 80 percent complete. He reports below-average yields and noted considerable discussion among growers regarding the reasons for the decline. The excessive rain and cloud cover in May is certainly thought to be a factor. Rustin Gilder of Helena in Crowley estimates his growers are approximately 85 percent harvested.
Conventional long grain rice has generally yielded in the mid-40-barrel range, while hybrids have produced yields in the upper-40s to low-50s. Medium grain yields have been more variable and, in some cases, were reduced by blast disease. The region also planted its largest-ever acreage of jasmine rice varieties. While yields have generally been good, some fields have fallen short of expectations.
In central Louisiana, however, growers continue to assess the effects of the record-setting rainfall and flooding associated with the June tropical storm, which left many fields underwater. While some acreage was completely lost, the full impact on surviving fields remains uncertain. Yield reductions are expected across much of the affected area.
Louisiana producers are reporting excellent regrowth following first-crop harvest, creating optimism for a strong ratoon (second) crop.
Across the Sabine River in Texas, the harvest continues to move steadily, albeit slightly behind Louisiana. West of Houston, more than 65 percent of the crop has been harvested. Farmer and crop consultant Cliff Mock estimates yields in his area are about 10 percent below historical averages. Texas A&M rice specialist Sam Rustom and consultant Weldon Nanson agree that yields across the state are generally running 5–15 percent below average, depending on location. Rustom attributes much of the decline to rainy, cloudy conditions during the boot and pollination stages. East of Houston, Helena's Dorsey Jones estimates harvest is only 10–15 percent complete, with yields running slightly below average.
Like Louisiana, Texas producers are reporting excellent regrowth following harvest, increasing optimism for a productive second crop.
Although the rice delphacid was present in Texas this season, it has not caused the level of first-crop damage experienced in 2025. However, Rustom reports that populations are increasing and encourages growers to scout fields carefully, as the insect can still cause significant damage to the ratoon crop. The rice delphacid was also confirmed this week in Louisiana. Dr. Dawson Kerns, entomologist at the LSU AgCenter Macon Ridge Research Station in Winnsboro, found one female in late-seeded research plots established specifically for delphacid studies.
Harvest is just beginning in north Louisiana and Arkansas, the latter of which saw a limited amount of rice harvested in July, which is earlier than normal. Growers in Mississippi and Missouri are expected to begin harvest in earnest this week or next.