Richard Minzenmayer has been named the 2012 Outstanding Educator in Cotton by Texas Cotton Producers, Inc.

Minzenmayer was presented a plaque at the Tom Green County Cotton Tour from Doyle Schniers, president of Texas Cotton Producers, Inc. board.

Minzenmayer, AgriLife Extension integrated pest management specialist for Tom Green and runnels counties, was recognized for his research in cotton, especially for his role in the discovery of TopGuard as a control for cotton root rot, and for his continued efforts for area cotton producers.

He has worked for Extension for 27 years. Minzenmayer will receive $200 and a trip to the 2013 Beltwide Cotton Conference in San Antonio.

Minzenmayer’s work on cotton root rot control was one of the accomplishments that helped earn the award, Schniers said.

“Rick has always done a super job with test plots but his work in helping test TopGuard for cotton root rot control was a decisive factor.”

Schniers said getting a handle on root rot will mean significant financial benefits for area farmers. “In tests this year the difference between plots treated with TopGuard and those where it was left out is significant,” he said. “Rick is a professional in everything he does. He’s has been the go-to guy for years for cotton insect management.’

Schniers said with the widespread use of Bt cotton, company consultants were not as numerous as they were at one time. “Rick covered a lot of acres.”

This is the second annual Outstanding Educator in Cotton Award presented by the Texas Cotton Producers, Inc.