Observations indicate that when aldicarb degrades rapidly reniform nematode and early season insect populations increase. To test this hypothesis we assessed these populations in eight cotton fields in northern Alabama and concurrently evaluated the degradation of aldicarb in those fields. Treatments consisted of aldicarb (Temik 15G) applied as a granular in-furrow at planting, avermectin (Avicta) seed treatment, and thiamethoxam (Cruiser) seed treatment. Plots were 8 rows by 100 m long arranged in a RCBD with 3 replications. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to measure the degradation of aldicarb and it's metabolites. Reniform population levels were determined monthly fore each plot at each location. Plots were also evaluated for thrips, aphids, and mites at 3, 4, and 5 weeks after planting. HPLC indicated aldicarb degraded within 10 days in four of the eight soils. In three of these four soils, reniform populations were not reduced (P< 0.05) by aldicarb as compared to the thiamethoxam treatment. Similar results were found for thrips. In 3 of the 4 fields, no difference between the thiamethoxam and aldicarb treatments were observed as measured by total thrip adults and larve numbers.