Rice farmers make long-term decisions based on many factors, some including uncertain market conditions and adverse weather.  As a tool for making effective and lasting choices with these factors in mind, farmers use risk management provisions provided through the Farm Bill, such as commodity support programs and crop insurance. 

The current Farm Bill provides a modest safety-net for farmers who must contend with depressed prices, increased costs of production, thin margins, and revenue losses due to natural disasters.

Recent News

  • USDA Proposes It Takes 500 Hours to be "Actively Engaged"

    Mar 24, 2015

    WASHINGTON, DC -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced a proposed rule to limit farm payments to non-farmers. The proposed rule limits farm payments to individuals who may be designated as farm managers but are not actively engaged in farm management. Full story
  • Crop Insurance Briefings Shed Light on Complex Programs

    Mar 17, 2015

    WASHINGTON, DC -- Anticipating attacks from the far left and far right, the Senate and House Agriculture Committees last week hosted Crop Insurance 101 briefings where producer and crop insurance industry representatives were on hand to educate staff on the history, issues, and complexities of the programs. USA Rice Federation joined a broad coalition of commodity groups that helped promote the briefings that were widely attended by Congressional staff. Full story
  • Brantley Reminds Farm Bill Extended Deadlines Approach

    Mar 10, 2015

    ENGLAND, AR -- USA Rice Federation Chairman Dow Brantley already updated yields and reallocated base acres for his Lonoke County, Arkansas farm, but he knows not everyone has done the same. He warns time is running out. Full story