Seth Byrd Named 2021 Cotton Specialist of the Year
January 10, 2021 
Seth Byrd
Dr. Seth Byrd, agronomist and Extension cotton specialist with Oklahoma State University, is the 2021 Cotton Specialist of the Year.
The annual award – sponsored by BASF and voted on by cotton specialists in the 17 states where cotton is grown – is based on several considerations, including exceptional leadership and outstanding industry service.
Byrd joined Oklahoma State University in 2018 after serving as assistant professor and Extension cotton specialist for Texas A&M AgriLife in Lubbock. He maintains active Extension and research programs in southwest Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Panhandle, working with clientele ranging from multi-generation cotton farmers to first-time producers.
“Dr. Byrd has been instrumental in fostering a team-based approach to our cotton Extension and research program and providing leadership to that team,” said Dr. Jeff Edwards, Department Head and Professor, Plant and Soil Sciences, Oklahoma State University. “As a result, we have a greater number of faculty and students actively involved in cotton Extension and research, which brings new ideas and helps supply the industry with experienced graduates.”
Originally from North Carolina, Byrd has lived and studied in multiple states. In addition to cotton, he also has experience with multiple crops including corn, soybeans, wheat, alfalfa and potatoes. He was drawn to Oklahoma, in part, because of the emergence of cotton as a popular option for a rapidly growing number of producers across the state.
Byrd received his award Jan. 6 during a virtual award presentation in conjunction with the 2021 Beltwide Cotton Conferences, also held virtually.
Based on information provided by BASF
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