The Floods Kept Coming. He Needed to Grow a Crop That Would Thrive in Water or to Quit.

Published: Friday, September 5, 2025 at 11:00 am

Illinois Farmer Thrives with Rice in a Changing Climate

In Southern Illinois, Blake Gerard has pioneered the cultivation of rice, a crop traditionally associated with the South, adapting to the increasing challenges of climate change. Gerard, a fourth-generation farmer, made the transition from corn and soybeans in the 1990s, driven by increasingly frequent flooding in the Mississippi River bottomlands. His story highlights both the potential for innovation in agriculture and the significant hurdles faced by farmers seeking to diversify their crops.

Gerard's journey involved a 25-year, multi-million dollar investment in land grading, infrastructure, and specialized equipment. He faced a lack of existing infrastructure, market access, and federal support, which is heavily geared towards corn and soybeans. Despite these challenges, Gerard's shift to rice has proven successful, providing him with a more stable production cycle and a crop that thrives in the flood-prone conditions.

The article notes that the Midwest is experiencing increased precipitation, particularly in the form of heavy rainfall, exacerbating flooding and erosion. This trend, coupled with the dominance of corn and soybeans in the region, has prompted discussions about the need for crop diversification. Experts suggest that federal farm policy, which currently favors established crops, needs to evolve to support farmers adapting to climate change. While some programs offer assistance, the overall system remains geared towards traditional crops, hindering the transition to more climate-resilient options.

BNN's Perspective: The success of Blake Gerard's rice farm underscores the importance of agricultural adaptation in the face of climate change. While individual innovation is crucial, it is clear that federal policy must evolve to support farmers in diversifying their crops and building resilience. A more flexible and climate-conscious approach to farm subsidies and infrastructure is essential to ensure the long-term viability of agriculture in a changing world.

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