The quality of cotton produced in the Delta region of Mississippi was analyzed during the 23 crop years of 1973 through 1995. Three quality categories and related discount/premium were reviewed to ascertain how cotton grade, staple length, and micronaire have changed over time. These were then combined to form an aggregate measure of quality. A similar analysis was done to determine how quality changes during the harvest period.. Causal factors were examined in an attempt to explain the fluctuations in these elements.