AR Cotton Growers to Receive Rebate from State Boll Weevil Eradication Foundation

By Cotton Grower Staff|April 6, 2025

The Arkansas Boll Weevil Eradication Foundation (ABWEF) board of directors has authorized the distribution of a $1 per acre cash rebate to growers for reported 2024 cotton acres registered with the Arkansas Boll Weevil Eradication Program.

In all, a total payout of $613,300 will be returned to Arkansas cotton growers.

“Production agriculture is highly expensive and financially burdensome for our growers,” says Joe Mencer, a cotton grower from Chicot County and ABWEF Chairman. “We’re pleased to support them in this way to alleviate some of the financial pressures and return their money to their pockets.”

“The board is committed to the stewardship and effective use of the dollars we’re entrusted with to reduce expenses while maintaining an exceptional program,” says ABWEF Executive Director Regina Coleman. “This rebate is another way we support our growers and help protect their bottom lines.”

The Arkansas Boll Weevil Eradication Foundation began eradication operations in Arkansas in 1997, making annual expansions that ultimately grew to include all cotton-producing areas in the state over time, leading to successful eradication of the boll weevil in the state in 2008. Since then, ABWEF continues a maintenance program monitoring the state for the presence of boll weevils in a prevention effort.