The Cotton Foundation

The Cotton Foundation

Major activities carried out during 2013.
MCBP

2013 Multi Commodity Education Program participants were (l-r): Terry Weckerly, Hurdsfield, ND; Freddie Streit, Vernon, TX; John Weinand, Hazen, ND; Tim Bartram, Guthrie, OK; Dennis Johnson, Devils Lake, ND; Charlie Bumgarner, Great Falls, MT; Bob Beakley, Ennis, TX; Michelle Erickson, Broadview, MT; and Christy Birdsong (NCC General Counsel), Washington, DC.

The Cotton Foundation's trustees approved 23 general research projects funded by $327,589 from Foundation agribusiness members' dues. Among projects receiving support are studies related to pest management, herbicide resistance, fiber quality, agronomic practices and education.

Two Foundation special projects reached milestones in 2013. The Producer Information Exchange (P.I.E), sponsored by Bayer CropScience, celebrated 25 years and the Policy Education Program, sponsored by Syngenta, concluded 15 years. In addition, the High Cotton Awards program is celebrating its 20th year in 2014. The first class of the new Monsanto-sponsored Emerging Leaders Program also was chosen and participated in various activities.

The NCC and CCI joined with Cotton Australia and Cotton Incorporated as founding members of Cotton LEADS™ -- a Cotton Foundation special project aimed at raising awareness of the responsible growing practices among U.S. and Australian cotton producers. The initiative specifically is aimed at textile brands, retailers and manufacturers committed to sourcing cotton that is grown in a responsible and transparent manner. More information can be found at www.cottonleads.org.

High Cotton Awards Winners

2013 High Cotton Awards winners were from left: Clyde Sharp, Roll, AZ; Steven Beakley, Ennis, TX; Kenneth Hood, Gunnison, MS; and Danny Darnell, Hillsboro, AL.

The Cotton Foundation continued to support vital NCC communications vehicles, including the Cotton's Week newsletter and the Cotton eNews electronic newsletter. The Cotton Foundation's underpinning of the NCC's web server made it possible for the NCC to post multiple cotton-related educational materials, including streaming video.