Welcome to the Crop Production Systems Research Unit

In October of 2009, the Crop Production Systems Research Unit (CPSRU) was formed by merging personnel from the former Southern Weed Science Research Unit and the Application and Production Technology Research Unit.  To enhance research capabilities on crop production systems, six individuals from the Crop Genetics and Production Research Unit also joined the new unit.  The CPSRU currently has fourteen Scientists and Engineers, one Support Scientist, and twenty-five Technical and Support Personnel on staff. 

The Crop Production Systems Research Unit is one of seven USDA-ARS research units in Stoneville, Mississippi.  The CPSRU has a comprehensive interdisciplinary research program addressing major problems of crop management of Mid Southern US growers.  It is the mission of the CPSRU to provide information on the development of: improved crop production systems; irrigation technology, agrochemical application technology; managing herbicide resistance, and addressing water quality issues. 

Specific research programs include: Maintaining soil resources for effective conservation and herbicide management; Critical biological factors determining weediness in Mid-South crop production; Development of sustainable production systems and water management technology for the Mid-South; Maximizing in-field deposition and targeted spraying using pesticide application technologies for spray-drift management; Weed biology and ecology; and Development of sustainable integrated weed management systems for cotton, soybean and corn.

More information about the personnel, research programs, and other activities within the Crop Production Systems Research Unit can be found in the subject headings at the left.   

USDA ARS is committed to making its web sites accessible to all USDA customers and employees. All of the agency web sites are undergoing review and redesign as necessary to ensure that they meet or exceed the requirements of Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.