September-ribbon-cutting set for new cotton classification complexSeptember-ribbon-cutting set for new cotton classification complex

The USDA Lubbock Cotton Classification Complex will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony and reception at 10 a.m. on Sept. 14 celebrating the opening of its state-of-the-art facility located on Texas Tech University campus. 

The 30,000-square foot complex, located across from the Rawls Golf Course, will open its doors for small group tours following the outdoor ceremony.  

“We couldn’t be more excited about celebrating the completion of the new USDA Lubbock Cotton Classification Complex.  It’s been a long process challenged by COVID and continuing supply chain issues, but it is officially ready to class this year’s cotton crop.  We are fine-tuning our equipment and systems now as we move closer to the live season,” says Darryl Earnest, USDA AMS Cotton and Tobacco Program deputy administrator. 

USDA and Texas Tech personnel first broke ground on the facility in July 2019. The new complex is equipped with the latest automated cotton classification technology, processing up to 50,000 to 60,000 samples per day, Earnest says.  

National Cotton Council President and CEO Gary Adams said data generated by the new state-of-the-art facility will benefit both producers and U.S. cotton clients. 

"The level of detail provided is another step forward that will continue to provide quality information that producers rely on for marketing their crop, but also for our customers because we want U.S. cotton to continue to be the preferred fiber." 

USDA has 10 cotton classification labs located throughout the Cotton Belt. Adams describes USDA's classing system as the gold standard. "We class every bale, unlike any other country in the world." Last year, they classed 17.1 million cotton samples.  

The USDA Lubbock Cotton Classification Complex is located at 120 Texas Tech Parkway. To learn more about the complex, its progress and features, click on the following links: