As Texas grappled with an unprecedented drought throughout the summer of 2026, the state’s cotton industry is facing severe repercussions, putting the livelihoods of thousands at risk.
According to the Texas Department of Agriculture, cotton production in the state has dropped by over 30% compared to last year's figures, plunging to the lowest levels in more than a decade. This decline is particularly impactful in the High Plains region, which produces approximately 40% of the state's cotton.
Local farmers in cities like Lubbock and Plainview express growing concerns over the sustainability of their crops. Farmer Tom Hargrove, who operates a family-owned cotton farm in Lubbock, stated, “We have never seen conditions like this. Our fields are parched, and we’re losing the crop before our eyes.”
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has projected that Texas will produce about 3.5 million bales of cotton this year, significantly down from 5.2 million bales in 2025. As a response to the crisis, state officials have begun to implement water conservation measures and are advocating for federal assistance to help struggling farmers.
In addition to challenging weather conditions, the industry is also contending with rising input costs. Fertilizer prices have soared by 15% in the past six months alone, exacerbated by supply chain issues and ongoing geopolitical tensions. Farmers are now facing a double whammy: lower yields and higher costs.
Agricultural economists warn that if conditions do not improve, Texas may lose its status as the leading cotton producer in the United States. Dr. Karen B. Lewis, an economist at Texas A&M University, noted, “If we don’t see significant rainfall soon, we could be looking at a fundamental shift in our agricultural landscape.”
The Cotton Board and various agricultural organizations are urging farmers to adopt more sustainable practices that could help mitigate the impacts of climate change. This includes implementing crop rotation and investing in drought-resistant seed varieties.
As the situation unfolds, the future of Texas cotton hangs in the balance, with many farmers hoping for a change in the weather and renewed support from both state and federal governments.