Memphis, Tennessee, USA
May 20, 2026
Horizon Ag, in partnership with USA Rice, is currently accepting nominations for its 2026 RICE Awards program, which recognizes individuals demonstrating Resilience, Innovation, Contribution and Excellence (RICE) across rice production and the broader industry.
The annual program honors leaders across three categories:
RICE Farmer of the Year
Recognizes a farmer managing at least 200 acres who demonstrates innovation, leadership and a commitment to advancing rice production, stewardship and their local community.
RICE Industry Advancement Award
Honors a professional with more than five years of experience whose work in research, extension, government or industry organizations is helping advance the rice industry.
RICE Legacy Award
Celebrates an individual with more than 10 years of service whose long-term contributions have made a meaningful and lasting impact on the rice industry.
Award recipients will be recognized at the USA Rice Outlook Conference, December 13–15, 2026, in Nashville, Tennessee.
“This program is about recognizing the people who are pushing the rice industry forward every day,” said Dr. Tim Walker, CEO of Horizon Ag. “Whether it’s on the farm, in research or across the broader industry, these individuals are making decisions that strengthen rice today and position it for the future.”
Horizon Ag encourages nominations from across rice-producing regions and all areas of the industry.
“There’s a lot of pride in this industry, and there should be,” Walker said. “These awards are about recognizing the people who are in it for the long haul and making a lasting impact.”
Nominations are open now and will be accepted through July 15, 2026.
For full program details, eligibility requirements and submission information, visit:
https://www.horizonseed.com/rice-awards
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