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Earlier-than-usual rice harvest expected in Bootheel

A University of Missouri Extension specialist says the rice crop is well ahead of schedule this year and harvest could start in mid-August in the Missouri Bootheel.

Justin Chlapecka tells Brownfield “I’ve talked to some consultants that may be draining fields as early as next week. That’s tremendously early. We’re 10 days to 2 weeks ahead of schedule for the most part. Many people got the crop planted early and we’ve had cooler temperatures helping with the grain fill. Hopefully, that will help with grain quality.”

He says warm temperatures and consistent rains have helped the crops to move forward, even if it’s delayed other crops and above-average yields are expected.

“Overall, we’re set up to have a good yielding rice crop.”

In the latest crop progress report from USDA, 23% of Missouri’s rice is headed with conditions rated 76% good to excellent.