BASF farming story: Protecting water in Italy’s rice farming

Editor's note: Rice is one of the most important crops around the world, while water is a key element in rice production. BASF is searching for approach to balance high-quality harvests and respect for the environment. Below BASF presents a farming story to illustrate their experience. Share your farming stories with us, to show how your company/products not only increase crop yield and quality, but also facilitate sustainable agriculture. Contact: agropages@vip.163.com

Italy is not only a large producer of pasta, but it is also Europe’s number one exporter of rice. Italian short-grain rice varieties are held in high regard by chefs and gourmets all over the world since they are particularly suitable for making risotto. 

The Piedmont region is said to be the “rice bowl” of Italy and is home to the Coppo-Garrione family who owns and runs the “Tenuta Darola” rice farm located in Trino Vercellese: 1,000 hectares of farm land are managed by the family, including 400 hectares which are owned by the Coppo-Garriones. Due to its significant size and technological advancement, the farm is regarded as a trendsetter in rice production. Furthermore, the history of the farm is deeply connected with that of the region which is why the family has a large responsibility in caring for the land and supporting rural culture. 

Water is the most important component for rice production, and diligent water management is key for sustainable rice farming. Tenuta Darola, which is part of the BASF Farm Network, focuses on excellence in rice cultivation and on how this traditional farming practice can balance high-quality harvests as well as respect for farmers, operators, consumers and the protection of biodiversity, water and natural resources.

Why is water important?

Water is a key element in rice production all over the world: it is crucial for the growth of the plant but also for the life of birds as well as amphibians and other aquatic organisms who populate and reproduce close to flooded rice paddies. In addition, in the Po Valley in Italy, rice paddies contribute to hold water coming from mountains before they reach main rivers and finally the sea, in fact filtering water and recharging groundwaters that replenish drinking water. Therefore protecting the quantity and quality of this rice paddy water is vital.

How to support the rice farming?

Tenuta Darola supports rice cropping excellence and assesses the environmental sustainability of BASF solutions like the Provisia^® rice system and Seltima^® fungicide. In partnership with DISAFA (the Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences at the University of Turin) studies on correct water management before and after using plant protection products were conducted to determine how best to reduce the risk of crop protection residues in downstream waterways. Based on the study it is confirmed that label instructions related to good water management practices are essential to protect water quality in rice paddies.

What has been achieved:

- 1,800 hectares of Provisia^® rice monitored and used for trainings.

- 330 water samples and 126 soil samples analyzed

- 210 farmers, advisors and technicians trained on good agricultural practice with focus on resistance management and water management

Their product stewardship team does not compromise on safety for humans, animals and the environment. At Tenuta Darola, they develop good agricultural practices for managing water quality in rice cultivation.