Luebke Farms Ptr.-- parent company for IBMCo.--planted an unprecedented 500 acres of conventional long-grain rice. Along with these 500 acres, a small 10-acre plot of aromatic, jasmine rice was planted--and thankfully so. After harvest time, there were many difficulties selling rice in the commercial market. However, Mark and Brenda Luebke, owners of Mark D. and IBMCo., turned a stressful endeavor
into an exciting adventure when they decided to focus on a less commercial, more localized market. Mark and Brenda's son, Brandon (fifth generation farmer and web designer for IBMCo.), and their daughter-in-law, Rachel (social media manager for IBMCo.), have since joined them in bringing rice production back to the community level. Although just officially launched in early 2011, IBMCo. has already had a local impact. Not only do the Luebkes grow aromatic rice on the banks of Lonoke County's scenic Indian Bayou, they also micro-mill small batches of their rice at both local demonstrations and their headquarters--fresh to order. While you may have seen them at farmers' markets in the past few months, you may have also seen them at festivals and other special events. is branching out further, securing locations around the state where their rice is sold in both retail and restaurant settings. It's not only grain that matters to the Luebkes: Using ecologically responsible farming methods is paramount to them as they continue on their journey toward establishing a local rice market. They want to show that when rice is farmed correctly and responsibly, the effect on local communities is positive. Although they continue to grow rice using conventional farming methods, they are constantly moving toward more sustainable methods of crop production and water conservation. These methods include tail-water recovery to preserve natural water resources, pre-flooding fields to suppress w**d growth and create habitats for migratory water fowl, and much more. If you haven't seen IBMCo. in action at one of their many demonstrations, be sure to check out their website, IndianBayouMillingCo.com, to see where and when you can experience the sights, sounds, and smells brought by IBMCo.'s Agritourism happening!
