Bradbrook - 2012 - Rice Farming complete with methods to increase ric

2. Befare planting:
a. Establish target yields (depends on variety, growing region, climate).
b. Set water productivity targets (ton/million liter).
c. Plan the entire operation from start to finish.
These recommendations are provided yearly by NSW DPI to every rice farmer in New South
Wales, the primary rice-growing region in Australia. The recommendations are based on data
provided by participating farmers which the Department analyzes to find the practices that
result in the highest yield and productivity. Rice farmers are free to join the program but not
every farmer has to do so. Participating means that farmers have to provide data about their
rice production to the Department and engage in farmers’ group meetings. For instance, the
recommendation that water level be at a depth of 20 to 25 cm at microspore stage was arrived
at by comparing the different water levels that participating farmers used and finding that this
water level resulted in the highest yield.
The Ricecheck Recommendations:
1. Land suitability
Key Check: A suitable land for growing rice must be one that has low permeability.
This prevents unnecessary water loss through percolation and seepage. By minimizing
access to water sources (irrigation canals or groundwater), considerable water
conservation is achieved. The recommended total water usage is below 14 to 16
million liters per growing cycle.
2. Field layout
Key Check: A rice field with a good layout is flat and even. The bunds must be wellconstructed
(no seepage or leakage) and be at least 40 cm in height at its lowest point.
Water channels should be constructed to facilitate efficient supply, drainage, and
recycling.
2. Sowing time
Key Check: Sowing should be done during the recommended sowing window for
each rice variety when environmental conditions such as temperature favor seed
germination and seedling survival.
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