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All rice seed must be certified or enrolled in a Quality Assurance Program in 2019

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All rice acres in California are required to be planted with seed that has been certified by California Crop Improvement or has gone through their Quality Assurance Program (QAP). Farm saved seed may not be used for production. This regulation was pursued by the California rice industry as an important tool to combat the spread of weedy rice in the state.

In addition, handlers will be required to seek proof that the rice delivered to them was planted with certified or QAP seed. The Commission is working with CDMS and Agrian to include a field in their reporting data bases for growers to meet this requirement.

Growers have had two years to enroll seed fields with California Crop Improvement Association, while saved seed was only used for production on their farm. Sale of farm saved seed has been prohibited since 2017.

UC Cooperative Extension has advised that planting clean seed is the single most important factor in preventing the spread of weedy rice.

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California Warehouse Association – Foreign Materials Prevention
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California Warehouse Association – Foreign Materials Prevention

The California Warehouse Association (CWA) has shared the following informational letter and best practices flyer:

As the new harvest season approaches, we hope this letter finds you well. This letter is a friendly reminder about the importance of maintaining the highest standards in keeping foreign materials out of trucks and bins. 

Our collective efforts to ensure purity and quality of the rice we handle are crucial not only for the success of our individual operations, but also for upholding the reputation of the entire California rice industry. Contaminants and foreign materials can compromise the quality of our product, lead to costly issues down the line, and impact our relationships with customers and partners. 

Here are a few best practices to keep in mind: 

1. Regular Inspections: Implement routine checks to ensure that all trucks and bins are clean and free from any residual materials before loading. A thorough inspection can help prevent cross-contamination. 

2. Training and Awareness: Ensure that all staff involved in the handling and transportation of rice are well-trained on procedures for maintaining cleanliness and avoiding contamination. 

3. Clear Protocols: Maintain clear and effective protocols for addressing any issues that arise, and make sure these protocols are communicated and followed consistently. 

4. Maintenance: Regularly maintain and clean all equipment and facilities used in the handling and storage of rice to prevent contamination. 

Our shared commitment to these practices will not only help us maintain the high standards of our product but also contribute to a smoother and more efficient harvest season. We ask that you share these reminders with your growers and farm bins. A one-page flyer is included with this letter that can be easily distributed. The flyer can be downloaded here. 

Thank you for your attention to this important matter, and for your ongoing dedication to the quality of California’s rice industry. 

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Wishing you a successful and bountiful harvest season!

Drew Becker 
CWA President

For more information please contact the California Warehouse Association at (916) 441-1149 or email brooke@agamsi.com.