Cotton production is an important rural industry in Australia. Disease pressure from emerging pathogens such as Thielaviopsis basicola threatens to reduce production.

A 4 month scientific exchange to the University of Guelph in Canada; and

DuPont and Waterborne Environmental Inc. in the USA enabled work with

During this pilot study 20 water quality test kits were distributed across the industry, including properties growing crops other than cotton.

A review is currently being undertaken by the Cotton Catchment Communities CRC of the BMP program so that it focuses on a more whole of farm business rather than on cotton alone.

Reflections of Mark Mortons person journey and discovery as a participant on the 2009 Australian Rural Leadership Program. Questions and challenges for the industries leaders are a major focus.