University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture to Host Cotton Tour Field Day Amid Optimistic Yield Predictions
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture (UTIA) is scheduled to host its annual Cotton Tour Field Day on September 9, from 8 a.m. to noon, at the West Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center. This free event is open to farmers, consultants, agribusiness professionals, and others involved in Tennessee's cotton industry. Despite challenging cotton growing seasons in both 2024 and 2025, UTIA researchers are expressing optimism about the yield potential for 2026. Tyson Raper, cotton and small grains Extension specialist, noted that Tennessee typically grows approximately 1,000 pounds, or two bales, of cotton per acre. He encouraged producers to attend the tour to gain crucial information for making final defoliation decisions and to ensure a strong finish to the year. Attendees will also receive pesticide recertification points and a complimentary lunch. The complete program details will be made available on utcrops.com closer to the event date.