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UC Cooperative Extension highlights rice research and workforce training in Sutter County
Summary
UC Cooperative Extension presented the Bi‑County Farm Advisor rice research program to the board, outlining funding, local economic impact (2023 farm gate value cited at about $272 million), research on varieties and pest management, and internship and workforce development initiatives.
UC Cooperative Extension representatives presented an overview of the Bi‑County Farm Advisor Rice Research & Extension program and its role in Sutter County agriculture, emphasizing research, grower outreach and workforce development.
The extension lead (speaker 7) described the Cooperative Extension structure — federal, state and county funding — and said Sutter contributes roughly 60% of the local Bi‑County office support while Yuba contributes about 40%. The presenter cited 2022–2023 grant and state funding totaling approximately $1.4 million and said rice remains Sutter County's top crop. Quoting the most recent figures available in the presentation, the speaker said the 2023 farm gate value for rice in the county was about $272 million with associated economic activity near $345 million.
Presenters outlined research priorities including pesticide and fertilizer evaluations, variety testing (noting varieties tested at the Rice Experiment Station are planted on roughly 95% of California acreage), and collaboration with industry and state agencies. The program also supports internships; student speakers described hands‑on research, herbicide trials and outreach at county fairs.
Chair expressed interest in collaborating on a future AgTech/research center in Sutter County and invited UC Extension staff to meet with county staff for follow‑up.
Why it matters: rice is a major local economic driver and UC Cooperative Extension's research and training help support growers, develop local ag professionals and maintain production standards.
