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http://www.siouxcityjournal.com/arti...5200106aaf.txt
Rice: A new cash crop for South Dakota?
BROOKINGS, S.D. (AP) -- Some South Dakota State University plant scientists are researching whether rice, the most-consumed staple food in the world, can be grown in the state.
"Based on my experience over the past 20 years, I think that it's possible to develop new varieties (of rice) that are suitable for the South Dakota environment," said Xingyou Gu, a rice geneticist and assistant professor of plant science.
Varieties planted this growing season could go from germination to flowering in two months, followed by another 35-40 days to reach maturation. That means one rice crop a year could be harvested in South Dakota.
The small SDSU rice plots have given the scientists what associate professor and entomologist Mike Catangui called "proof of concept," strong evidence that rice could be grown in South Dakota.
The scientists' official goal is "to explore the potential of rice as a viable crop for South Dakota; to develop rice varieties adapted to South Dakota conditions. ... The main reason for this project is to diversify crop rotations in eastern South Dakota to better manage insect pests of corn, especially corn rootworms." . . . (read more)
Go State!
Rice: A new cash crop for South Dakota?
BROOKINGS, S.D. (AP) -- Some South Dakota State University plant scientists are researching whether rice, the most-consumed staple food in the world, can be grown in the state.
"Based on my experience over the past 20 years, I think that it's possible to develop new varieties (of rice) that are suitable for the South Dakota environment," said Xingyou Gu, a rice geneticist and assistant professor of plant science.
Varieties planted this growing season could go from germination to flowering in two months, followed by another 35-40 days to reach maturation. That means one rice crop a year could be harvested in South Dakota.
The small SDSU rice plots have given the scientists what associate professor and entomologist Mike Catangui called "proof of concept," strong evidence that rice could be grown in South Dakota.
The scientists' official goal is "to explore the potential of rice as a viable crop for South Dakota; to develop rice varieties adapted to South Dakota conditions. ... The main reason for this project is to diversify crop rotations in eastern South Dakota to better manage insect pests of corn, especially corn rootworms." . . . (read more)
Go State!