Thinking about getting more value from the data you’re already collecting on‑farm – or not sure where to start?

Then the CRDC Cotton Course microcredential Digital and Data Solutions for Cotton Systems is for you.

In this episode, we're joined by Ian Simpson and Stephen Cattle from the University of Sydney to unpack what growers and consultants can expect to learn in the upcoming microcredential being offered in Narrabri in July 2026.

It’s practical, hands‑on learning – from soil maps to variable rate tech – and enrolments are open now.

For more information and to enrol visit CRDC Cotton Course 2: Digital and Data Solutions for Cotton Systems - Sydney Short Courses

*Early bird discount open until 31 May 2026.

The CRDC Cotton Course is delivered by CRDC in partnership with the University of Sydney, CottonInfo & CSD.

In this episode, we unpack the rapid and unexpected spread of the Indian cotton jassid across the US Cotton Belt, just 18 months after first being detected.

Dr Scott Graham - who featured in a recent episode on his visit to Australian cotton farms on the Darling Downs - shares firsthand insights into how the pest likely arrived, how quickly it moved through the southeastern United States, and the challenges growers faced as familiar symptoms were initially mistaken for nutrient stress or spider mites.

We discuss real-world yield impacts, why early detection and timely action are critical, and how management approaches are evolving.

Drawing on hard-earned experience, the conversation closes with practical lessons and biosecurity advice for Australian cotton growers should this high‑risk pest ever arrive in our own backyard.

Megan Woodward chats with CottonInfo Technical Lead and climate specialist Jon Welsh about why eastern cotton regions are starting dry, how El Niño events really behave behind the headlines, and what growers can do now to manage risk using history, not hysteria.

Resources and information

Subscribe or update your details to ensure you receive the CottonInfo Moisture Manager here.

Article by Dr Kim Reid mentioned: Why the phrase ‘Super El Niño’ makes Australian climate scientists roll their eyes.