Georgia’s cotton industry faces a sharp decline in 2025, with acreage dropping 22 percent from 1.1 million to under 850,000 acres. Farmers blame high costs, low demand, invasive pests, and natural disasters, threatening livelihoods and the state’s economy.
Sharp Drop in Cotton Acres Sparks Alarm
This year, vast fields in south Georgia that once bloomed white with cotton now grow corn or peanuts instead. The state saw a major reduction in planted acres, hitting communities hard where cotton has long been a staple.
Experts point to multiple factors driving this change. Production costs have soared, while market prices remain stuck at levels from decades ago. Farmers report selling cotton for the same rates as in the 1990s, making it tough to break even.
In Terrell County, the drop is even steeper, falling from an average of 30,000 acres to just 16,500. Local agents describe it as a wake-up call for the region.
Natural disasters added to the woes. Hurricanes Debby and Helene damaged crops in 2024, leading to federal aid for affected growers. Yet, recovery remains slow, pushing many to switch crops.
Invasive Pests Worsen the Struggle
A new threat emerged in 2025 with the cotton jassid, an invasive insect spreading across Georgia’s cotton belt. This pest damages plants by sucking sap, reducing yields and quality.
Farmers face higher expenses for pesticides and monitoring. Without effective controls, entire fields suffer, forcing tough choices.
The boll weevil once devastated cotton in the early 20th century, but eradication efforts in the 1990s helped recovery. Now, this new invader echoes those old battles, but with modern twists like climate shifts aiding pest spread.
Combined with volatile weather, these bugs make cotton riskier than ever. Some growers report losses up to 30 percent from infestations alone.
Recent reports highlight how the jassid could raise consumer prices for cotton goods if unchecked.
Economic Pressures and Market Woes
Low global demand plays a big role in the decline. With cheaper imports flooding markets, U.S. cotton struggles to compete.
Production costs, including fertilizer and labor, have risen sharply. Farmers note expenses are up 20 to 30 percent over the last few years, while prices lag.
Trade issues, like ongoing tariffs and wars, hurt exports. Tennessee farmers, facing similar issues, project losses of $430 million in 2025 for major crops including cotton.
In Georgia, the impact ripples through local economies. Gins and related businesses see less activity, leading to job cuts.
Here’s a quick look at key economic factors:
- High Input Costs: Fertilizer prices jumped 25 percent since 2023.
- Low Selling Prices: Cotton fetches about 60 cents per pound, down from peaks.
- Export Challenges: Global demand fell 10 percent in 2025.
These pressures force diversification, with peanuts and corn offering better returns.
Historical Roots and Modern Shifts
Cotton shaped Georgia’s past, dominating farms from the 1700s to mid-1900s. The invention of the cotton gin in 1793 boosted production but relied on enslaved labor, fueling social divides.
Today, the state ranks second in U.S. cotton output, behind Texas. Yet, acreage peaked at over 2 million in the early 1900s before pests and market changes cut it down.
Mechanical harvesters in the 1950s ended hand-picking, but painful memories linger for older generations.
Modern farming brought tools like Roundup for weed control, aiding a rebound in the 1990s. Now, sustainability concerns and climate change add new layers.
Farmers warn that without better federal support, the industry could shrink further.
Impacts on Farmers and Communities
The decline hits rural areas hardest. Many family farms face closure, with some already shutting down after years of losses.
One grower shared losing over $100,000 in a single season due to pests and low prices. Switching crops helps short-term, but it disrupts supply chains.
Broader effects include higher costs for clothing and textiles. Georgia’s agriculture contributes billions to the economy, and cotton alone is worth nearly $1 billion yearly.
| Factor | 2024 Impact | 2025 Projection |
|---|---|---|
| Acreage | 1.1 million | 850,000 |
| Production Value | $950 million | $700 million (est.) |
| Job Losses | Minimal | Up to 5,000 in related sectors |
| Pest Damage | Moderate | Severe due to jassid |
Communities built around gins now see empty fields and quieter towns.
Path Forward Amid Uncertainty
Stakeholders call for policy changes, like updated federal safety nets that match current costs. Groups like the Georgia Cotton Commission push for research into pest-resistant varieties.
Innovations in precision farming offer hope, using tech to cut costs and boost yields.
Climate adaptation strategies, such as drought-resistant seeds, could help counter weather extremes.
As Georgia navigates this crisis, the industry’s future hangs in balance. Farmers urge action to preserve this historic crop.
What do you think about the challenges facing Georgia’s cotton farmers? Share your thoughts in the comments and spread the word to raise awareness.
