Industry, government and producers have now invested at least 35 years and lots of dollars in research and development into boll weevil eradication (BWE). Along the way, there seemed to be endless hurdles to overcome, not the least of which was "lack of confidence" from all sides, also almost yearly money shortages, environmental issues and legal challenges from many directions.

The National Cotton Council (NCC) has been the guiding force that kept all the necessary parts of the program focused on the ultimate objective. It has provided leadership and direction at every weak point along the way. The Council committed its staff members, too many to name, to get us to the point where we are today.