Small pickings for cotton industry

Thursday, April 19, 2007

Cotton picking is under way in Australia's biggest growing region, but yields are disappointing.

Processors and contractors are struggling financially and are concerned about earning enough this year to plant a viable crop next year.

Cotton gins are cutting back on staff and cotton contractor Tim Fraygar says most of his work is drying up much sooner than expected.

"I hope we're picking for another six weeks but I can't see that happening," he said.

"I think it's going to be a short season all round, particularly with picking days staying as dry as they are and as favourable as they are.

"Just at the moment we're looking for additional work in the Macquarie.

"It will be one of our shortest seasons I imagine."
Sourced - ABC