Harvest of state's early-planted rice getting started

STUTTGART — Arkansas rice growers who were able to get their crop planted early have begun to harvest.

Agriculture officials say that early yield numbers look strong, with 200 bushels-per-acre being common.

Many growers got a late start planting and some fields have yet to head. But some producers have drained their fields a little early. Extension service experts say that carries some risk because the high temperatures will dry the fields quickly and can stress the plants.

The extension service says stinkbugs can still pose a risk to the crop, even this late in the growing season. Also, growers who planted blast-susceptible varieties should monitor their plants because producers have reported instances of blast in the state in the past week.

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