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

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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
Send feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

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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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