Extension
2024 Rice Disease Training
The year 2024 marked a significant milestone with the inaugural Rice Disease Training program, which equipped participants with essential skills in managing rice diseases. The comprehensive training covered the identification of common rice diseases such as blast disease, sheath blight, narrow brown leaf spot, kernel and false smut. Participants also learned about host resistance, focusing on resistant varieties and genetic resistance mechanisms. The program emphasized the importance of seed treatment, highlighting chemical methods to protect seeds from pathogens. Effective fungicide application was another key topic, with a focus on optimal timing, methods, and resistance management strategies. Additionally, the training drew parallels with rice diseases prevalent in Louisiana, offering insights into regional variations and successful case studies for effective disease management. Overall, the 2024 Rice Disease Training provided valuable knowledge and practical skills, paving the way for healthier crops and improved agricultural productivity in the future.
Rice Field Day – Stuttgart, Pine Tree and Harrisburg
The Rice Field Day at the Rice Research & Extension Center is a vibrant and informative event that brought together researchers, farmers, and industry experts to discuss the latest advancements in rice cultivation. Attendees had the opportunity to tour the experimental fields, observing cutting-edge research in action. Presentations covered a range of topics, including new rice varieties, soil health, water management, and technological innovations aimed at improving yield and quality. The event also featured interactive demonstrations and hands-on sessions, allowing participants to gain practical insights and share their experiences in plant Pathology. Networking opportunities are abundant, fostering collaborations and knowledge exchange within the rice-growing community. Overall, the Rice Field Day is a resounding success, highlighting the ongoing commitment to advancing rice agriculture through research, education, and extension efforts.
High School Visiting at Rice Research & Extension Center
The visit of high school students to the Rice Research & Extension Center provided a unique and inspiring opportunity for young minds to explore the field of plant pathology. As they toured the state-of-the-art facilities, students were introduced to the vital work done by plant pathologists in safeguarding crops from diseases. The day began with an engaging presentation on the role of plant pathologists, highlighting their importance in ensuring global food security through the study and management of plant diseases. Hands-on activities allowed students to examine diseased rice samples, gaining insights into pathogen identification and understanding the intricate interactions between plants and pathogens. They learned about various techniques used in disease diagnosis, including the development of disease-resistant rice varieties. The students also had the chance to speak with researchers about their career paths, educational backgrounds, and the challenges and rewards of working in plant pathology. By the end of the visit, the students left with a newfound appreciation for the field and a potential interest in pursuing a career that combines science, agriculture, and the environment.
