High Plains forecast to produce about half of last year's cotton crop, possibly less

Although planting season just recently wrapped up for cotton in West Texas, it's already become clear to most local experts that this year's crop will not come out unscathed by the deepening drought.

While the actual number -- in terms of acreage -- has yet to be determined, Plains Cotton Growers Director of Policy and Analysis Shawn Wade predicts the majority of the region's dryland cotton, and even some irrigated acreage, have already failed this season, already bringing lower numbers to production.

"It's been a challenging year," Wade said. "Last year, we had about 4.5 million acres in production, and this year, we'll be lucky to get half -- maybe even less."

Currently, as we approach peak blooming season, only about 60% of the state's remaining cotton acreage is in "fair" or better condition, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Read more: https://www.amarillo.com/story/business/agricultural/2022/07/25/high-plains-predicted-to-produce-about-half-of-last-years-cotton-crop/65379531007/