McKenzie Beliew sees the importance of Arkansas rice with ARF program

Through the Arkansas Rice Federation’s Rice Reps program, Marvell Academy rising senior, McKenzie Beliew, has learned about the benefits, importance, and economic impact Arkansas rice provides. During the program, Rice Reps actively participate in activities and field trips designed to teach them about rice farming. They learn the worldwide importance of this crop through education and volunteerism. Rice Reps are also invited to attend several on-site experiences during the program, to better understand the reach of rice in Arkansas, which serves as the Natural State’s primary agricultural export. They share what they have learned, but also seek other opportunities to learn and expand their knowledge.

McKenzie shared what she learned, “When I first became a Rice Rep, I didn’t know anything about rice. You might think there’s not much to Arkansas rice history, but there’s so much to learn. Did you know growing rice in Arkansas was actually an accident? Farmer William Fuller was on a hunting trip in Louisiana in 1896. He spotted rice growing there and it inspired him to grow rice in Arkansas. He then became one of the first successful farmers to farm rice ever on his farm in the natural state of Arkansas in 1904. A few people helped him grow the rice, including his brother-in-law John Morris and John’s wife Emma. After his success, rice production was established all throughout Arkansas. Stuttgart, Arkansas, is even known as the “Rice capital in the World”. If you want to learn more about the history of Arkansas rice, you can visit the Museum of the Arkansas Grand Prairie in Stuttgart. I think this program is important because it helps young people understand the importance of rice while getting to share it with everyone and have some fun!”

McKenzie is a member of the National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Interact Club, and the Student Council President at Marvell Academy and is a member of the Delta Beta Sigma Sorority. She enjoys being on the MA cross country and track team. She plans to attend college and major in pharmacy after she graduates. She is the daughter of Sarah and Brad Beliew of Clarendon.