A preharvest sampling technique has been utilized on an annual basis since the 1980 crop year to determine fiber properties of the Texas High Plains crop prior to the onset of harvest.

A preliminary report was made at these meetings in 1983, and more definitive reports were given in 1986 and 1987.

The present report summarizes data from 1982 through the 1987 season. Sampling results are compared to the USDA, AMS combined Lubbock and Lamesa classing office's seasonal average values.

A review of length values reveals that samples overestimated length two out of five years (84, 85) and underestimated length the remaining three seasons. Based on classings through December 24, 1987, length is overestimated by 0.25 32nds in 1987.