Troy Fruge began farming independently during his senior year of high school in 1983. Starting with 105 acres of rice, 40 acres of crawfish, and 40 acres of soybeans, Troy now operates 3,400 acres of rice and crawfish and 200 acres of soybeans in northwest Acadia Parish. Recognizing the need to preserve natural resources, Troy enrolled in USDA conservation programs in 1984 and has continued this practice as his farm expanded. Currently, he manages 1,300 irrigated acres of cropland and utilizes a surface water irrigation system on 2,300 acres, recycling tailwater from his fields.
Troy has precision-leveled all his rice and crawfish acreage, enhancing irrigation efficiency and improving soil, water, and air quality. He participates in the NRCS CSP Program, which supports nutrient management, grid soil sampling, precision fertilizer application, and cover crop planting. His involvement with the Acadia Soil and Water Conservation Districts and the Crowley USDA NRCS office has led to significant improvements in reducing soil runoff and sediment, improving irrigation efficiency, and enhancing wildlife habitat.
To stay at the forefront of agricultural advancements, Troy follows up-to-date research from the LSU AgCenter. This allows him to implement the latest techniques and practices to increase yields in more economical ways. His commitment to continuous learning and innovation exemplifies his pride in being a farmer and his dedication to sustainable farming.
As Chairman of the Bayou Decannes – Nezpique Drainage District, Troy collaborates with Acadia SWCD and Crowley USDA NRCS on managing drainage structures, streambank stabilization, water control structures, and installing weirs to control erosion across 92 miles of drainage ditches. Additionally, he serves on the Acadia Parish County FSA Committee Board, has been a member of the Acadia Parish Farm Bureau since 1983, and is part of the Acadia Rice Growers Association.
Troy was honored as Junior Farmer of the Year by the 47th International Rice Festival in 1983. His daughter Kynlee, following in his footsteps, was named the 86th International Rice Festival Junior Farmer of the Year. She is currently attending McNeese State University, majoring in Agricultural Business, and plans to return to the farm after completing her degree.
By adhering to these conservation practices and BMPs, rice farmers like Troy Fruge ensure their operations are sustainable, productive, and environmentally friendly, paving the way for future generations in agriculture.
The International Rice Festival takes place every third full weekend of October each year down the historic streets of Crowley Mainstreet. For more updates and information, visit www.ricefestival.com.
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