Stories: on the farm

Cotton production

Leadership is built from the ground up. That’s why the Cotton LEADSSM program is driven by Australian and U.S. producers, scientists and other professionals dedicated to sustainable cotton production. Get to know the growers and researchers who, season after season, are investigating and implementing solutions that improve cotton’s environmental footprint.

  • Howard Rowther
    Darling Downs, Australia

    Investing in drip irrigation has not only saved water, but increased yield for this Darling Downs farmer.

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  • Dr. Michele Reba
    Jonesboro, AR, USA

    Dr. Michele Reba’s work with the USDA-ARS Delta Water Management Research Unit (DWMRU) could affect generations-long farm practices in the region and push the needle on water management for cotton producers everywhere.

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  • Shane Isbell
    Cherokee, AL

    Shane Isbell, a third-generation U.S. cotton farmer, is using precision agriculture to reduce waste and improve the land for the next generation.

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  • Jimmy Webb
    Leary, GA, USA

    For Jimmy Webb, technology is essential to sustain stewardship – and stay competitive in today’s global economy.

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  • Dahlen Hancock
    Lubbock, TX, USA

    Dahlen Hancock is using new technologies that help him take care of the land – so it can take care of his granddaughter.

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  • Dr. Linda Smith
    Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Brisbane, QLD

    Dr. Smith received the 2019 Australian Cotton Researcher of the Year Award for her work in detecting and managing cotton diseases

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  • Tom and Charm Arnott
    Boggabilla NSW

    Award winning Australian cotton growers achieving phenomenal yields alongside sustainable production practices

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  • Murray Connor
    Moree NSW

    Murray Connor’s involvement in the cotton industry began a decade ago, starting with Australian Food & Fibre (AFF) in 2008 as a casual irrigator, whilst completing a double degree in Agriculture and Business at the University of New England.

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  • Dr. Fred Bourland
    Arkansas, USA

    Dr. Fred Bourland works to improve cotton yield and fiber quality, helping U.S. growers meet increasing market demands.

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  • Bill Robertson
    Arkansas, USA

    Through his field research, Bill Robertson helps growers solve challenges and improve profitability.

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  • Dr. Tina Grey Teague
    Arkansas, USA

    Dr. Teague discusses her focus on using methods of integrative pest management to continuously improve the sustainability of US cotton.

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  • Dr. Sharon Downes
    Narrabri, NSW, Australia

    Dr. Sharon Downes has studied cotton pests for the past 15 years to develop strategies for managing their resistance to biotech cotton.

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