Traditional cropping systems for the Southeast U.S. continue to be marginally viability due to low crop prices, and low yields on a state wide basis. Little can be done about prices since most crops compete in a world market. However, there are rotations that can impact yield and risks of growing these crops with or without irrigation. Rotations with perennial grasses enhance soil characteristics and have shown improved soil water infiltration, reduced nitrate and ammonium leaching to ground water, higher earthworm population densities, greater plant growth and nitrogen uptake as well as less pest pressure (nematodes, weeds, and diseases). Rotation effects on cotton growth and development will be discussed.