As a staple food for millions of people around the world, rice plays a central role in many of our diets. Its production is an economic powerhouse, generating revenue, providing livelihoods to countless farming communities around the globe, and contributing significantly to the United States agricultural exports. Rice production demonstrates a commitment to sustainable agriculture, often leading the way in water management and innovative agricultural practices, which are a cornerstone of environmental conservation. With its impact on nutrition, economics, and environmental stewardship, rice production is an essential element of the United States' agricultural future and food security. We're talking with Dr. Bruce Linquist with the University of California's Extension Service about rice production in one of the largest rice-producing states. But first, let's take a look at the weather across Rice country and the rest of the United States with Meteorologist Matt Makens.