Rice Advances & Drier Division Plan for Harvest 2026 //
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August 5, 2026

Managing Rice Delphacids with Dr. Nick Bateman

Rice delphacids are making their way into the Mid-South — what does that mean for your crop?

In this episode of Grainiacs, we sit down with Dr. Nick Bateman, entomologist with the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, to discuss an emerging concern for Mid-South rice producers: the arrival and spread of rice delphacids.

Dr. Bateman breaks down what rice delphacids are, why they’re becoming more prevalent in the region, and what that means for growers moving forward. Listeners will gain practical, research-based insights on how to identify early signs of infestation, the environmental conditions that favor these pests, and the potential impacts on yield and crop health.

Most importantly, Dr. Bateman shares actionable strategies for prevention, monitoring, and management—equipping producers and ag professionals with the tools they need to stay ahead of this invasive threat. From scouting tips to integrated pest management approaches, this episode delivers timely information to help protect one of Arkansas’s most important crops.

Whether you’re in the field or advising from the office, this is a must-listen conversation on staying proactive in the face of changing pest pressures.

Listen in with us

Other Episodes

Get the latest industry news from the Riceland Grainiacs.

September 3, 2026
39 Years of Rice: A Conversation with Bill Free

After 39 years at Riceland Foods, Bill Free is getting ready to retire. In this special episode of Grainiacs, Bill looks back on his career, from starting at the Dumas facility in 1988 to the many changes, challenges, and experiences that have shaped his time with Riceland.

August 19, 2026
The Rice Market at Home with Peter Bachmann, USA Rice

Grainiacs sat down with Peter Bachmann, President & CEO of USA Rice, to discuss the work going on at the nation’s capital and beyond for the rice industry.

July 23, 2026
Inside Operations: Powering Milling, Soy & Storage with Charles Brown & Jeff Madden

In this episode of Grainiacs, we go inside Riceland’s operations with two leaders helping drive efficiency and innovation across the cooperative—Charles Brown, Vice President of Milling & Manufacturing, and Jeff Madden, Senior Director of Engineering & Energy Resources.