— 20 IREC Farmers' Newsletter No. 200 — Spring 2018 Keys to success in 2018 When asked to comment on why this season’s crop was a success, there were two consistent themes in growers’ responses: l attention to detail during the planting operation l  excellent irrigation management, i.e. water on and off bays quickly, accurate timing during peak demand and well-maintained layouts. Siphon layouts were the dominant cotton layout, with 57% of the area surveyed using this technology. Bankless channel layouts made up 31% of the survey area and this is increasing each year. The area under ‘pipe through the bank’ is also increasing. Fibre quality was reported as being exceptional, with most growers reporting no discounts and some premiums for colour grades. When asked what their biggest challenge was to remain profitable, the response, predictably, was around water. Water availability and water affordability were mentioned by over 80% of the respondents. Disease build up, with black root rot specifically mentioned, came in second. This article is only a snapshot of the survey results. The full report is available on request. Further information Kieran O’Keeffe M: 0427 207 406 E: [email protected] Success in 2017–18 was attributed to attention to detail at planting and excellent irrigation management. — 20 IREC Farmers' Newsletter No. 200 — Spring 2018 Cotton survey results BACK TO CONTENTS PAGE