COTVAR is computer program that may be used to summarize cotton variety performance data from state cotton variety tests conducted in three zones: Eastern Zone (AL, FL, GA, NC, SC, VA); Central Zone (AR, LA, MS, MO, TN); and Western Zone (CA, NM, OK, TX, KS).

Using COTVAR, varieties can only be directly compared over sites within one zone at a time. Within each state variety test, entries may be evaluated at different sites and in different experiments (referred to as "tests" in some state variety tests). The different experiments may be based upon maturity of varieties (early or mid-maturity) or upon years that the entry has been evaluated (main or new entry). Specific varieties entered in an experiment will typically differ among zones, among years and experiments (within a state), and among states (within a year); and may differ among sites within a year and state. Comparisons of data for different varieties are only valid when the specific varieties are evaluated in the same experiment.

Development and maintenance of COTVAR is made possible by funding from Cotton Incorporated. Links to cotton variety test data for each state may be accessed here.