Craig Shook, Chairman

The Cotton Foundation was able to maintain nearly 70 members as agribusiness mergers and acquisitions continued in 2006. These member firms' dues ($370,252) went entirely in support of 26 general research and education projects for 2006-07. Investments and Washington building rental income also provided a small portion of the funding for these projects.

The 2006-07 Foundation general projects include ongoing work ranging from air quality and emissions studies to improving cotton quality and cotton processing. New general projects cover efforts ranging from managing glyphosate-resistant Palmer amaranth to support of a U.S. cotton leadership orientation in China. All of the projects are supporting the NCC’s mission.

The U.S. cotton industry is enjoying a healthy return on investment from these endeavors, too. NCC staff estimates that taking into account cash and in-kind services, the Foundation’s general projects enjoy a return of about $3 for every dollar devoted to these projects.

The Foundation’s special projects, funded by grants over and above member dues, are contributing to the industry’s health in such unique ways as developing future industry leaders to increasing awareness about nematode damage/control. As a need arises, Foundation members are eager to offer their support for these special endeavors. That was evidenced by sponsorship of the Internet-accessible weed resistance module that is being initiated in 2006.

In addition, individual Foundation member firms continue to support key NCC communications vehicles, including the Cotton’s Week newsletter, AgDay Cotton’s Week and the Cotton eNews electronic newsletter.

Craig Shook, Chairman (2006-07)
The Cotton Foundation
(Shook served as the 2005-06 Foundation President)