Our Practices
Isbell Farms is proud to have pioneered or adopted a number of practices that lead to greater efficiency and sustainability in our rice production.
Zero Grade
Isbell Farms employs Zero Grade technology on 100% of its acreage.
Rice is often grown in on sloped fields that depend on contour levees or terraces to maintain water depth at intervals down the slope of the field. Though this technique is integral to rice production in some areas, in other areas it is possible to employ Zero Grade technology to decrease water and land use and increase efficiencies. Read more about our Zero Grade Practice.
Alternate Wetting and Drying
Alternate Wetting and Drying is an irrigation method that helps save water and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in rice production.
Typically, rice is produced in constant flooded conditions. Saturated soils tend to produce methane through natural processes. By carefully managing irrigation water and allowing soils to temporarily oxygenate throughout the growing season, a process known as Alternate Wetting and Drying, this natural methane production process can be minimized. Our previous investments in technologies like Zero Grade make it possible for us to manage this technique on some portion of our farm. Read more about our Alternate Wetting and Drying Practice.