NCC, USDA Announce 4-Bale Module Averaging Pilot

August 22, 2024
Contact: Marjory Walker
(901) 274-9030

MEMPHIS - The National Cotton Council (NCC) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), are pleased to jointly announce the launch of the 4-Bale Module Averaging Pilot Program. This voluntary program, part of the USDA's Cotton and Tobacco Program, aims to enhance cotton bale fungibility through modern techniques, increasing efficiencies in warehouse bale selection and improving overall quality. The initiative stems from the collaborative efforts of the NCC's Cotton Flow Committee and the Quality Task Force, which identified cotton bale fungibility as a key area of mutual interest.

Gary Adams, NCC President and CEO, stated, "I am pleased we are able to jointly announce this pilot program. We believe this represents an important step forward in enhancing cotton bale fungibility and improving U.S. cotton's competitive position."

The pilot program includes specific criteria for averaging bales and reporting data back to customers. Participation is flexible, allowing customers to submit modules in multiples of four up to a total of 48 bales.

For more information on the pilot program and how to participate, please visit www.ams.usda.gov/about-ams/4-bale-module-averaging-pilot.