This consortium, comprising experts in biophysical and socio-economic sciences, represents the pinnacle of the U.S. organic cotton academic community.
In a groundbreaking collaboration, a multi-state, multi-institutional team is spearheading efforts to enhance the sustainability and productivity of organic cotton production in the U.S. This consortium represents the pinnacle of the U.S. organic cotton academic community.
Led by Bagavathiannan, the team includes distinguished scientists and faculty from AgriLife Research and AgriLife Extension, primarily housed in the Department of Soil and Crop Sciences. Noteworthy members include Dr. Jake Mowrer, a state soil specialist, and Dr. Nithya Subramanian, a molecular weed scientist, both based in Bryan-College Station. Additionally, Dr. Emi Kimura, an agronomist in Vernon, and Bob Whitney, an organic program specialist in Stephenville, bring their expertise to this comprehensive initiative.
Research Scope and Geographical Coverage of Organic Cotton
Over a span of four years, the team will conduct small-plot experiments in certified or transitioning organic fields across Texas, New Mexico, and Tennessee. The inclusion of Tennessee is particularly strategic, as it aims to broaden the scope of organic cotton research and outreach activities into the Mississippi Delta region. These experiments will rigorously evaluate specific regenerative management practices to enhance the sustainability and yield of organic cotton.
The project is committed to ensuring its relevance and impact through a robust stakeholder advisory panel. This pane plays a pivotal role in guiding the project’s activities and ensuring the practicality and applicability of its outcomes.
Project Goals
The overarching goals of this multi-faceted initiative are:
- Understanding Adoption Dynamics: Gain a profound understanding of the constraints and opportunities associated with the adoption of organic cotton production.
- Localized Regenerative Practices: Develop regenerative practices tailored to local conditions, advancing agronomic, ecosystem, and economic benefits of organic cotton production.
- Weed Management Innovation: Evaluate the weed suppressive potential of advanced breeding or pre-existing cotton lines.
- Extension and Outreach: Expand the adoption of organic production practices through collaborative extension and demonstration activities.
- Educational Initiatives: Provide educational opportunities to train the next generation of research and extension scientists, as well as organic practitioners.
This ambitious project represents a pioneering effort to address the complexities of cotton production in the U.S. This combines scientific expertise, regional focus, and stakeholder engagement. The team aspires to not only overcome existing challenges. It also lays the groundwork for a more sustainable and prosperous future for cotton agriculture.
