The Rice Research Station is located in Acadia Parish in middle south Louisiana about 2 miles east of Crowley. It is one of 17 research stations operated by the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center through its research arm, the Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station. 

The Rice Research Station,the first rice experimental station in the U.S. was established at Crowley in 1909, by Louisiana State University. The first resident director (then called superintendent), Friend B. Quereau (1909 to 1916), was the driving force behind the station's planning, construction, equipping, and staffing. Research continues under the guidance of the following directors, F. Mitchell Jenkins (1914-1946), Rufus H. Walker (1947-1958), Austin T. Harrell (1958 to 1962), H. Rouse Caffey (1962-1970), Macon D. Faulkner (1970-1984), Joe A. Musick (1985-2003). Present research is directed by Steve D. Linscombe (2002-).

Research programs were initiated to develop improved varieties and to identify cultural practices required to enhance production and maintain a viable industry. For more than 80 years, the main thrust of research efforts continues to be varietal improvement and the development of agronomic management practices that increase production and maintain profitability. 

Research at the Rice Research Station is conducted cooperatively by the Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station and the United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. Research programs include breeding, biotechnology, variety testing, production and distribution of foundation seed, fertilization, soil and water management, cultural practices, weed control, insect control, disease investigations, rice drying, bird control in rice, and physiology studies. Forages and crop grown in rotation with rice were evaluated. The aquaculture emphasis was on multiple cropping of crawfish with agronomic crops. 

Although most of the research work is performed by members of the Rice Station staff, several experiment station staff members from Baton Rouge conduct research at this station. The research activities include both fundamental and applied research, although the latter predominates due to mission of the Rice Research Station.  The programs of the Rice Research Station will continue to make an important contribution to the economic development of Louisiana.