Louisiana rice farmers battle tight margins as next generation takes the wheel

However, strong yields have not translated into strong profits.

"The numbers are there. We just don't have the price," Frey said. "We're selling rice for the same price as we were 48 years ago. Fertilizer, we were paying $100 to $125 a ton. Now we're paying $500, $600, $700, $800 a ton."

Rising costs for land, labor, and repairs have squeezed established farms across the region. For new farmers without pre-existing land, equipment, or built-up equity, those financial barriers can make entering the industry almost impossible.

To help bridge that gap, Frey took on Garrett Cormier as a full business partner this year after Cormier worked full-time on the farm for six years. While not a traditional father-to-son succession, the partnership is rooted in decades of family connection that began when Frey started farming land belonging to Cormier's grandfather.

"If Gerard hadn't offered me this opportunity, it would be very tough to start on my own," Cormier said. "With everything in the economy right now, I wouldn't be able to do it if I didn't have somebody like him helping me get started."

Cormier's interest in farming began in grade school, when he first asked Frey if he could work alongside him. Over the years, he moved from riding in equipment to hauling rice, running machinery, and ultimately helping manage daily operations.

For Frey, passing down the business has meant learning to step back and trust his new partner's judgment.

"I'm stuck in my ways. I have to give him his opening," Frey said. "He has to create his own ideas, and he'll have to make mistakes like I did—and I still do. But it's so rewarding to have a young man like that."

Despite navigating tight profit margins, a young family, and uncertain market conditions, Cormier remains optimistic about the future of Louisiana agriculture, drawing inspiration from past generations who survived the farm crisis of the 1980s.

"They came out of it. There's no reason why we can't come out of it," Cormier said. "Everything is expensive, but we'll make it. It's something that's bigger than money. It's just the way of life."