The Vital Role for Rice in California
For more than 100 years, we’ve cultivated rice in California. Its unique climate and location make for ideal growing conditions. It’s also ideal for something entirely different: sustaining hundreds of California’s native species.
We set out to understand how the rice industry impacts the ecosystems and our community, and how many acres of rice are needed for them to thrive.
Why it Matters
Flooded rice fields serve as crucial replacement wetland habitat for diverse Central Valley wildlife, including Giant Gartersnakes, waterfowl, shorebirds, Sandhill Cranes, and native fish. But challenges from climate change, water shortages, market shifts, and urban growth are forcing farmers to change practices, leave more fields unplanted, or switch crops entirely. Without rice in Sacramento Valley, we lose an entire ecosystem that would cost $2B to restore.
We needed to find out:
- How much planted rice needs to be flooded in the winter to continue benefiting the species that need it?
- How much rice is needed to meet the needs of native species living in California?
- What management practices do the most good for the greatest number of species?
- How do we protect the land and farms currently used by these species?
- Where should rice be planted so that it can maintain abundant wildlife?
How Many Acres of Rice is Enough?
Rice agriculture plays a significant role in providing food and habitat to many species of California native birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. It generates $1B for the local economy, creates more than 25k jobs, and produces virtually all of the nation’s sushi rice.
To accomplish all that, Sacramento Valley needs
Our Plan to Protect and Enhance California’s Rice Footprint
Permanent Easements
Working with conservation organizations including Ducks Unlimited, secure rice acres for future generations through voluntary permanent easements on the most valuable ricelands.
Enhanced Conservation Programs
Develop new programs based on the unique needs of species like the giant garter snake and salmon to contribute to their recovery.
Short-term Easements
Create a new short-term programs to ensure winter flooding and other practices are implemented for up to 15 years.
New Science
Work with scientists at UC Davis and conservation partners to identify new areas of research to further enhance the habitat value of every rice field for multiple species.
Download the Rice Footprint Report
The groundbreaking Rice Footprint Report uncovers what rice farming makes possible: protecting California's native species, enhancing biodiversity, and providing essential food and habitat for wildlife.