Production Conference Aiming to Deliver Wealth of Information

MEMPHIS -- The 2010 Beltwide Cotton Conferences’ Cotton Production Conference program is nearly finalized and will feature the latest information on topics ranging from nitrogen application to nematode control.

The National Cotton Council-coordinated 2010 Beltwide Cotton Conferences (BWCC) is set for January 4-7 at the New Orleans Marriott and Sheraton New Orleans hotels. Detailed programming information as well as instructions for meeting registration and housing reservations is at the BWCC website, www.cotton.org/beltwide. Early (online) registration runs through December 7.

Bill Robertson, the NCC’s manager, Agronomy, Soils and Physiology, said presentations confirmed for the Cotton Production Conference’s general session include innovative cotton farmers and leading research and Extension scientists discussing such timely topics as the value of transgenics, emerging insect issues, current/future precision agriculture opportunities, and today’s cropping decisions, including a look at rotation options and benefits. In addition, attendees will hear from an “innovative grower panel” about proven production practices they have adopted.

Other insightful presentations will include a review of the 2009 growing season, opportunities in conservation programs, a discussion of marketing challenges, an economic outlook and updates on industry issues from the NCC and on key research efforts from The Cotton Foundation and Cotton Incorporated.

The Production Conference’s workshops will feature: 1) a collaborative report on several years of research from across the Cotton Belt concerning site-specific management of nematodes; 2) geographical sampling concepts and techniques for cotton pest management for precision agriculture uses; 3) variable rate nitrogen applications using on-the-go optical sensors; 4) effective and efficient irrigation for cotton production; 5) roundtable discussions on variety selection, insects, weed resistance and conservation programs, 6) an introduction to options, and 7) an economic outlook. Other sessions include a cotton specialists workshop and the annual New Developments From Industry reports on varieties, chemistry and equipment/technology.

In addition, the third annual Cotton Consultants’ Conference will include educational presentations by Extension and University experts on: 1) spring burndown herbicides and their impact on diseases, insects and weeds; 2) updates on cotton diseases and insect pests, including new products available to combat them; 3) a panel discussion on the value of transgenics and the impact on consultants, and 4) keynote speaker J.R. Bradley’s humorous and informative look back on his experiences and a discussion of consultants’ role in helping farmers deal with the challenges and issues that production agriculture faces now and in the future.

The Beltwide Cotton Conferences bring together those with a stake in maintaining a healthy U.S. cotton production sector, including cotton industry members, university and USDA researchers, Extension personnel, consultants, and service providers, to share timely information.

Conferences’ programming is designed to update U.S. cotton producers on new technology, innovative and effective production practices, and key industry issues.