 |
| Charles Parker, Chairman |
Research, education and technology transfer are critically important to U.S. cotton’s competitiveness in the world marketplace. The Cotton Foundation continues to make a difference in the industry’s quest for success by supporting ongoing investigations and cutting-edge projects being conducted by some of America’s premier scientists.
The Foundation’s contributions are possible because of its faithful members. As of July 1, 2008, the beginning of the 2008-09 Foundation fiscal year, there were 66 Foundation members. Their voluntary membership dues are enabling the Foundation to direct $333,580 in support of 25 general research and education projects.
This research is geared toward finding solutions to problems from cottonseed to textiles. As in 2007-08, pest management remains an important arena. Foundation-supported work is targeting weed resistance, nematodes, plant bugs, spider mites, pink bollworm and boll weevil – all of which threaten producer profitability. The U.S. cotton industry is enjoying a healthy return on investment from these efforts, too. National Cotton Council (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.
Many Foundation members continue to go above and beyond their dues by providing much-needed grants for support of special projects. These endeavors have proven invaluable in helping the NCC carry out much needed educational and training efforts. The Cotton Leadership Program just completed its 25th year. Other among other initiatives are the Producer Information Exchange, the Multi Commodity Education Program and the Policy Education Program.
Support also is being gathered for two new special projects to be launched soon.
“Vision 21” will critically assess cotton textiles’ fastest growing consumer markets, important life-cycle studies to strengthen U.S. cotton’s sustainability message, and a thorough analysis of cotton handling/transportation logistics with a focus on improving flow and shipping. The NCC, Cotton Council International and Cotton Incorporated will jointly administer this project.
Another special project, “Advancing Cotton Education,” will help producers achieve profitability and sustainability by enabling the NCC to disseminate best management practices through the re-introduction of the Cotton Physiology Today newsletters and the “First Forty Days” and “Fruiting to Finish” guides. There are plans for additional information distribution activities within this project from a variety of sources.
Foundation member firms also continue to sponsor vital NCC communications vehicles, including the Cotton’s Week newsletter, AgDay Cotton’s Week and the Cotton eNews electronic newsletter.
I believe the Foundation is well positioned to help bring resolution to the technology-based priorities and educational needs the NCC has identified that will invigorate the U.S. cotton industry in the decades ahead.
Charles Parker, Chairman (2008-09)
The Cotton Foundation
(Parker served as the 2007-08 Foundation President)
