Editor
As the cotton ginning season is on its way to wrapping up, and the new planting season is on the horizon, one would think those in the cotton business are entering a “slow time.” Well, not really. It’s still busy, just a different kind of busy.
Now, we are in the midst of trade shows, production and organization meetings and award presentations. And that’s a good thing — look, learn and celebrate. There is not enough room in this space to talk about everything being offered, but here are some highlights. For example, the Mid-South Farm & Gin Show kicks off Feb. 28, at the Renasant Convention Center in Memphis.
Tim Price, show manager and executive vice president of the Southern Cotton Ginners Association, said the show gives attendees an opportunity to see what’s new and gain information critical to farmers and agribusiness.
“The show will have over 300 exhibitors with 25% being new exhibitors,” he said. “This highlights the continuing innovation of products and services in agribusiness to help farmers cope and improve their capabilities and efficiency in an environment that demands continuing evaluation and adaptation.”
Looking to the Southwest, the TCGA Gin Show opens Thursday, April 3, at the Lubbock Memorial Convention Center. Cotton Farming magazine has been the co-sponsor of this show for more than 25 years. This year’s theme is “Turning Cotton Great Again.” The TCGA Gin Show is one of the largest gatherings of cotton ginning equipment, supplies and affiliated businesses that provide parts or services to the ginning industry. The exhibitors are eager to inform visitors about their products and services related to everything cotton.
Kelley Green, TCGA executive vice president, said, “The TCGA Gin Show is a great venue for ginners across the Cotton Belt to come together and seek solutions to problems impacting the industry. We invite you to make plans to attend the 2025 event and celebrate ‘Turning Cotton Great Again.’”
In your local area, check with the county agent’s office to get the dates and locations of grower meetings close to your operation. These gatherings are an excellent opportunity to learn what’s new or how to optimize practices that are already in place.
This also is a time to honor those who have made great contributions to the cotton industry. Be sure to check out the 2024 Cotton Consultant of the Year award winner Bill Webster from Alabama on page 11. See why he has earned the respect of his farmers and his peers.
In closing, get on the cotton train in 2025, and don’t slow down. Embrace our industry, and enjoy the ride!