A 4 year cropping-systems study was initiated in 1988 near Corpus Christi, Texas to determine the influence of reduced tillage vs. conventional tillage, and high level insect management vs. conventional insect management on insect pest numbers and damage, and yields of cotton. The plot design was a randomized complete block with split-split plots within a block. The main effects were crops (sorghum, cotton, or corn), with a split for conventional tillage vs. reduced tillage, and second split in cotton for conventional insect management vs. high level insect management. Plots were sampled for insect pest numbers and damage when present. In 1990 significant differences were not observed between insect management systems or tillage systems for thrips or bollworm/tobacco budworm damaged flower buds. Numbers of aphids were lower in conventional insect management than in high level management in 1990. Boll weevil damaged flower buds were significantly lower in conventional insect management than high level insect management in reduced tillage. Yields of cotton were highest in reduced tillage under conventional management in 1990. Probably due to the use of PIX in the high level management under droughty conditions. Yields in 1991 were highest under reduced tillage and high level management, probably due to superior soil moisture and insect control.