The Arkansas Boll Weevil Eradication Foundation board of directors voted to authorize a $1 per acre cash rebate for growers who paid assessments on 2025 cotton acres verified with the Arkansas Boll Weevil Eradication Program, according to a March 11 announcement. Approximately $487,000 will be distributed to Arkansas cotton growers, with delivery expected by the end of April.
“Arkansas cotton producers persevered with the same hard work and dedication they bring year after year. We’re pleased to once again support their efforts through the rebate program,” said Joe Mencer, a grower from Chicot County and ABWEF Chairman.
The Foundation verified 486,798.3 acres from Arkansas’s cotton producers for the 2025 season. The crop remains significant in the state’s agricultural economy, with Arkansas holding the third-highest cotton production ranking in the nation.
“The board maintains its commitment to responsibly managing and investing the dollars we’re entrusted with each year. Through the rebate program, we’re able to alleviate some of the financial pressure our producers experience and still maintain an exceptional program,” said ABWEF Executive Director Regina Coleman.
The Arkansas Boll Weevil Eradication Foundation began eradication operations in 1997 and expanded annually until all cotton-producing areas were included. The boll weevil was eradicated in Arkansas in 2008, and since then ABWEF has operated under a maintenance program focused on prevention efforts.
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture manages an agricultural sector contributing more than $24.3 billion annually with about 37,400 farms spanning roughly 13.7 million acres, per the official website. The department oversees funding through boards that allocate millions for research, extension and market development in commodities such as rice and soybeans; promotes access to safe water supplies; maintains Baucum Nursery for reforestation; honors outstanding forest management; and serves as a state government agency focused on resource conservation and industry support, according to the official website. More information can be found at the official roster page.
