“Scientists will focus on understanding the complex relationships between cropping systems, water management and the environment,” said ARS Administrator Edward B. Knipling. “The resulting knowledge will provide a foundation for efficient and environmentally friendly agriculture in arid climates.”

The new facility combines in one consolidated, multidisciplinary research center the U.S. Water Conservation Research Laboratory and Western Cotton Research Laboratory?EUR??,,????'??+two ARS research facilities formerly located in Phoenix. Researchers at the U.S. Water Conservation Laboratory developed improved methods for crop irrigation. Scientists at the ARS Western Cotton Research Laboratory developed integrated management techniques to improve cotton production and control pests like the whitefly and the pink bollworm.