At Black Fox, we believe that rice farming and wildlife conservation can work hand in hand. That’s why we proudly participate in the Nigiri Project, an innovative effort that transforms our winter rice fields into a thriving habitat for young salmon. This project not only supports the environment but also showcases how agriculture can play a role in restoring natural ecosystems.
What Is the Nigiri Project?
Named after the beloved sushi dish that combines rice and fish, the Nigiri Project is a groundbreaking initiative that repurposes flooded rice fields as temporary wetlands for juvenile salmon. Historically, California’s floodplains were natural nurseries for young fish before they migrated to the ocean. However, urbanization and levee construction have drastically reduced these wetlands.
By flooding our rice fields in the off-season, we help recreate these lost habitats, giving salmon a much-needed boost during their early life stages. Research has shown that fish raised in flooded rice fields grow significantly larger and healthier compared to those in river channels, improving their survival rates once they reach the ocean.
How We Implement the Nigiri Project
At Black Fox, we take pride in integrating sustainable farming with conservation efforts. Here’s how we make the Nigiri Project work:
1. Flooding Our Fields in the Off-Season
Once our rice harvest is complete, instead of draining the fields, we intentionally flood them with fresh water. This process mimics the natural floodplains that once covered the region, providing a safe, nutrient-rich environment for young salmon.
2. Providing Essential Food Sources
Our flooded fields become a thriving ecosystem, rich with plankton and insects—the perfect natural diet for juvenile salmon. Unlike the barren river channels they typically grow in, these fields offer an abundant food supply, allowing the fish to grow larger and stronger before their journey to the ocean.
3. Partnering with Conservation Experts
We collaborate with fish biologists and conservation groups to monitor and track salmon growth in our fields. Research has consistently shown that salmon raised in these conditions grow up to five times larger than those left in the river, significantly improving their chances of survival.
4. Safely Releasing Salmon Back into the Wild
After spending several weeks in our fields, the young salmon are carefully released back into the waterways, where they continue their journey to the Pacific Ocean. Our efforts directly contribute to strengthening the salmon population and restoring the natural ecosystem.
Why This Matters
The Nigiri Project is a perfect example of how agriculture can be a force for environmental restoration. By using our fields to support wildlife during the off-season, we’re not only helping salmon populations but also enhancing water conservation and improving soil health for future crops.
At Black Fox, we’re committed to sustainable rice farming that benefits both people and the planet. Every grain of rice we grow supports a greater mission—protecting our natural resources and creating a healthier ecosystem for future generations.