Rice Farming Update

Rice Farmers Update – November 2nd

Ratoon (2nd) Crop Update

The rains have caused havoc with the ratoon crop harvest. As of November 1, we have received approximately 54,000 cwt. off of 1,300 acres. We expect to receive 4,600 acres of 2nd crop.

Yields of completed lots:

The milling quality is a little below average and damage quality about average.

Prices have not changed much in the last month or so. Cash Price as of last week: conventional (good Presidio or Cheniere) $6.75 compared to hybrid $6.25. Remember early bids were in the $5.00 to $5.50 range.

Futures have dropped from $13.015 for November to $11.40, $13.30 for January to $11.685, $13.73 for July 2016 to $12.47 and $12.85 for November 2016 to $12.095. World Market price for the week of October 27 up $.18 to $9.60 and that compares to $9.25 for the week of September 15.

Reports from other states is that the first crop harvest is complete. Yields and quality are off like ours. Late planting and wet weather were the main reasons for lower yields. Some Mississippi and Arkansas farmers are planning to farm less acres next year if the price does not increase.

This is a summary of an article from MTD, Modern Tire Dealer; that discusses specialty trailer tires (ST) versus passenger (P) and light truck tires (LT) for use on trailers. Trailer tires (ST) are engineered specifically for use on trailers. They have more load carrying capacity than passenger and light truck tires of the same size. Trailer tires are designed with stiffer side walls. A light truck tire (LT) not only may have a lesser load capacity, the P and LT tire are designed for handling and steering. IF a passenger tire is used for a trailer you must discount the load rating of that tire by 11% and expect more swaying. Bias trailer tires should be used for shorter trips and rough terrain and radials for longer trips and smoother ride. The radial is designed for more road contact on the road, therefore dissipating the heat across a greater area.

Air pressure is crucial with the trailer tire (ST) as in any tire. Air pressure is one of the main causes of tire damage, high or low pressure. It is estimated that 95% of tire failures are due to poor or no maintenance, overloading or misuse and abuse. Any tire that is not set to the correct air pressure will lose load carrying capacity. The consumer should be aware that on tandem axle trailers, if a tire fails on one side, the second tire on the same side should also be replaced as that tie bore the most weight when the tire next to it failed. There is a high probability if both tires are not replaced the consumer will experience another tire failure soon.

A trailer, when not in use, should be parked on a hard surface and the tires protected from UV rays to ensure maximum life. Do not exceed the recommended load rating on the tire sidewall. Inflate the tire to the maximum suggested PSI (air pressure) to provide the maximum load range. Do not mix radial and bias tires on the same trailer. The load range should be the same on all tires on the same trailer. Remember after a blowout on a tandem trailer replace both tires on that side.

Summary:

1. Make sure the trailer is equipped with the proper tires.

2. Maintain the tires. Ensure that the PSI is always checked.

3. Replace trailer tires every three to five years of service, regardless of whether they look worn out or not.

4. Keep tires covered if not in use.

5. Lower air pressure if tires are not going to be used for an extended period. BUT REMEMBER TO INFLATE TO PROPER PSI WHEN IN USE.

6. Either park on a hard surface or put trailer on blocks or jack stands to take weight off the tires.

If you have an RV trailer make sure that the original equipment tires have enough load rating or range to carry not only the trailer, but the added weight that you may have placed in the trailer; water, food, and supplies.

Thanks your patronage from all at Rice Farmers Coop and Mr. Tire!

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