The boll weevil eradication effort of 1995 in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas (LRGV) that followed the Frisbie-Brazzel Plan contributed to the massive crop failure. The reasons why the eradication program, as implemented, was such a complete and dismal failure are discussed. These include the spring start, flagrantly disregarding Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices developed for the LRGV, the absence of a host-free period in the LRGV, the close proximity to Mexico, boll weevil host plants, lack of a buffer zone, and the long range movement of the boll weevil. A strategy for the management and containment of the boll weevil in the LRGV is advanced. This strategy consists of a complete stalk destruction program, fall diapause sprays, and pre-emptive sprays in the spring. This boll weevil containment strategy is a realistically obtainable goal. It is a strategy which would serve well the LRGV cotton producers in addition to those across the cotton belt.