Rice Rep Rawls weighs in on Arkansas Rice

Arkansas Rice Rep, Kirkley Ann Rawls of Helena-West Helena, has spent much of the summer learning about the value and importance of Arkansas Rice.  Being a native of Phillips County, she has grown up in an agricultural community.  This rising senior at DeSoto School was excited to be selected as an Arkansas Rice Rep and is excited to tell her story….

“This summer, I have had the wonderful opportunity to represent Arkansas Rice as a 2025 Arkansas Rice Representative.  I have been excited to learn all about rice and how it relates to Arkansas.  I have had so much fun, and I am so thankful for the opportunities that I have had. 

 Last week, I went and visited Loveless Farms.  While riding out to Mr. Allen Loveless’ farm, a drone caught my attention flying over a field.  I asked Mr. Allen what it was used for.  He explained to me that rice farmers use these drones to identify weeds in their fields.  He said that the drones are becoming a valuable tool for Arkansas rice farmers in their ongoing battle with weeds.  They are equipped with GPS and LiDAR technology, which allows them to target specific areas, reducing herbicide waste.  These drones can cover large areas quickly and efficiently.  Mr. Allen also taught me the step-by-step process of how rice is harvested and planted.  He showed me how to distinguish between the various rice varieties grown on his farm.  I saw first-hand how much care goes into producing each grain.  I left his farm with a greater appreciation for the important role rice plays in Arkansas agriculture. 

 Rice farming in Arkansas has a rich history.  Since the first successful rice crop was planted in Lonoke County in 1904 by William Fuller, Arkansas has become the leading rice-producing state in the country.  William Fuller was a cotton farmer and grew the first successful rice crop when he realized that the area’s flat land and abundant water supply made it ideal for rice production.  His success inspired many other farmers, and by 1910, Arkansas was producing more than a million bushels of rice.  

 Over the years, Arkansas grew to become the leading rice-producing state in the nation.  Today, Arkansas grows nearly half of all the rice produced in the United States.  Arkansas grows a variety of rice, including long grain, medium grain, and specialty varieties, across more than 1.4 million acres of farmland.  This growth not only showcases innovation in farming, but it also demonstrates the dedication of generations of hardworking families who continue to make rice a vital part of the Arkansas economy. 

 As a Rice Representative, I want to share this story to show others, especially young people like myself, how agriculture shapes our state.  Whether I am speaking at an event, posting on social media, or simply engaging in conversation with someone, I aim to inspire others to take pride in Arkansas rice and understand its significance.

 Rice is more than just a crop.  It is a way of life for many farm families in the state of Arkansas. Rice supports local communities, creates jobs, and puts food on the table for people across the country.  What impressed me most was the pride farmers have in their work and how deeply connected they are to the land.  This first-hand learning experience about rice has made me appreciate how much hard work is put into every grain.  It also made me realize how important agriculture is to the economy and future of our state.  Being a Rice Rep has given me a greater appreciation for all farmers, including my great-grandfather, John Kirkley, who was Ms. Lilly Peter’s assistant farm manager in the 1970s.  I never realized the long hours, from sunup to sundown, and the demands that are put on our farmers.  

 After learning more about Arkansas Rice and farming, I would like to express my gratitude and thank the farmers in my community for their commitment, dedication, and hard work.  I will forever appreciate them for all they do.  I will also never forget this experience as an Arkansas Rice Rep, and I hope to be able to pass on the information that I have learned to others so they can enjoy Arkansas rice as much as I do.” 

 Kirkley Ann Rawls is the daughter of Tim and Lori Rawls of Helena-West Helena.  She is a leader in her class at DeSoto School and within the community.  Kirkley Ann enjoys volunteering in Phillips County, especially at the local food pantries.  She looks forward to promoting the Arkansas Rice industry whenever future opportunities arise.