Spatial variability in methane emissions from a Texas rice field with some general implications

This study addresses the issue of the effect of spatial variability within a single rice field on methane emissions observed using static flux boxes. The experimental data were collected from a commercially farmed field located near Richmond, Texas. The field was managed according to the normal practice of the area, including continuous flooding and the use of only inorganic fertilizer. Twenty‐four experimental plots were employed to measure daily and seasonal methane emission, seasonal aboveground biomass, and soil texture. A statistical analysis of the data provided predictive information on the precision with which static flux box measurements can determine the actual methane emission value in a particular field. The results of this study are related to the general global question of spatial variability in rice fields by comparisons with experimental and calculated methane emissions from several comparably managed rice fields around the world. Results from the present study indicate that methane emission values obtained from static flux box measurements are within ±20% of the actual field values within a 95% confidence interval. A comparison of this study with other reported results and related model calculations indicate that static flux box measurements are within ±24% of the actual field values.