Oklahoma State University Extension is calling on cotton producers across the state to participate in two research initiatives: variety trials and harvest aid demonstrations.
“We’re looking for locations to plant our race trials,” said Jenny Dudak, OSU Extension Cotton Specialist, in a recent interview with KC Sheperd of the Oklahoma Farm Report. “It would be a good opportunity for producers to evaluate various varieties on their fields and see what works best on their operations.”
Dudak explained that the variety trials involve planting multiple cotton varieties side-by-side, allowing producers to observe their performance throughout the growing season. “Producers can go and look at those varieties – see what they’re liking about them – their statures, how they’re maturing, different things like that,” Dudak said. At the end of the season, yield data is collected, providing valuable insights for future planting decisions.
The program provides the seed, and producers manage the cotton as they would their own crop. Dudak emphasized the importance of considering factors like maturity length and herbicide tolerance when selecting varieties, especially given Oklahoma’s diverse growing conditions.
In addition to variety trials, OSU Extension is also seeking participants for harvest aid demonstrations. “We would come in and spray various harvest aids,” Dudak explained, noting the goal is to showcase different products and their effectiveness.
For both initiatives, OSU Extension is looking for fields that are easily visible from the road to allow for broader observation and learning. While a picker or stripper with a weigh scale is preferred for the variety trials, it is not a strict requirement. Dudak also welcomes both irrigated and dryland fields to capture the full range of cotton production in Oklahoma.
“Anybody across the state can participate,” Dudak emphasized, highlighting the need for diverse participation. The data collected will be published on the OSU website to help producers make informed decisions for the 2026 season.
Producers interested in participating in either the variety trials or the harvest aid demonstrations can contact Jenny Dudak directly at jdudak@okstate.edu.
