AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. — Alabama Cooperative Extension System entomologist Scott Graham has been recognized nationally by Cotton Grower magazine as one of its inaugural Best in Cotton award recipients. In the July issue, Graham garnered the publication’s 2026 Best in Extension honor for his leadership in responding to the emergence of the cotton jassid across the Southeast.

The Best in Cotton recognition program celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to protecting and advancing the U.S. cotton industry during one of its most challenging periods. The awards recognize the cotton industry’s first responders whose work helps producers overcome emerging threats and strengthen the industry’s future.

“It’s an honor to be recognized for all the work my colleagues and I did on the cotton jassid last year,” Graham said. “This was truly a group effort among entomologists, Extension agents, scouts, consultants and growers.”

Value in Collaboration

Graham was honored alongside fellow Extension entomologists Phillip Roberts of the University of Georgia and Isaac Esquivel of the University of Florida for their coordinated response to the two-spotted cotton leafhopper, commonly known as the cotton jassid. The invasive insect was first detected in Georgia cotton fields during summer 2025 before spreading rapidly throughout the Southeast.

As the pest expanded its range, Graham and his colleagues worked across state lines to establish research plots, monitor insect populations, analyze field data and rapidly communicate management recommendations to growers. Their collaborative efforts helped equip cotton producers with the information and tools needed to effectively manage the pest entering the 2026 growing season.

“We continue to work diligently to keep everyone up to date as the situation evolves,” Graham said.

The magazine noted that the team’s expertise in entomology and regional leadership helped shield the Cotton Belt from what could have become an economically devastating pest, providing growers with timely guidance during a rapidly evolving situation.

“Scott’s recognition reflects not only his expertise but also the value of Extension’s collaborative approach,” Alabama Extension Director Eve Brantley said. “When new threats emerge, our specialists work hand-in-hand with colleagues across the region to deliver research-based solutions that help Alabama farmers protect their crops and remain productive.”

Graham serves as an Alabama Extension entomologist at Auburn University, where he conducts research and provides educational programming focused on insect management in Alabama’s row crops, including cotton. His work helps producers make informed pest management decisions that improve profitability while supporting sustainable production practices.

Cotton remains one of Alabama’s most important agricultural commodities. Extension specialists continue to provide timely research, field demonstrations and recommendations that help producers address evolving production challenges.