Rice & Ducks: Why Farming Practices Matter for Waterfowl (Ep 778)

Rice fields aren’t just agricultural landscapes — they’re one of the most important waterfowl habitats in North America.

In this episode, host Dr. Jerad Henson is joined by Dr. Ryan Askren of Five Oaks Ag Research & Education Center and Patrick Dill, Ducks Unlimited’s Manager of Agricultural Programs in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley (MAV), to break down the science, management, and real‑world decisions behind rice agriculture and waterfowl habitat.

From energy-rich food resources to water management and farming practices, the group explains why rice fields have become a cornerstone of wintering habitat — and what’s at risk as modern agriculture continues to evolve.

In this episode, listeners will hear about:

• The history of rice agriculture and its connection to waterfowl
• Why rice fields function as “surrogate wetlands” in the MAV
• Duck Energy Days explained and why they matter
• The massive difference between harvested vs. unharvested rice fields
• How modern harvesting techniques affect food availability
• Residue management (burning, rolling, disking) and its impact on ducks
• Why water depth (2–8 inches) is critical for feeding waterfowl
• The importance of invertebrates and diverse food sources in rice fields
• How infrastructure (levees, impoundments) helps hold water on the landscape
• The role of geese, weather, and timing in food depletion
• Why early flooding and late-season water retention matter
• How pressure, disturbance, and refuge areas affect duck behavior
• The realities of farming decisions: input costs, markets, and water scarcity
• Emerging trends in rice production (row rice, AWD irrigation, ratoon crops)
• Habitat loss risks when rice acres shift to other crops
• Practical tips for managing rice fields specifically for waterfowl

This episode connects agriculture and conservation in a way that shows how farm-level decisions directly influence continental duck populations.

Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcast
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Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.

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