Alexander Vasilievich was one of the brightest representatives of the Russian scientific elite, who has written more than one page in the history of the development of both Russian and world agricultural science.

The result of many years of scientific activity of A.V. Kochegura is the development of dozens of released soybean cultivars, suitable for cultivation conditions in all regions of Russia and neighboring countries. For many years Russian farmers, involved in soybean cultivation professionally, has been using his experience and knowledge, expressed in numerous scientific works, books and publications. For 41 years, the career of A.V. Kochegura was associated with V.S. Pustovoit All-Russian Research Institute of Oil Crops. In recent years, Alexander Vasilievich was the head of the breeding department of the “Soybean complex” company, where he worked, developing new soybean cultivars along with the modern breeding directions. A.V. Kochegura was the coordinator of soybean research in the European part of Russia. From 1999 to 2017, he was a member of the Dissertation Defense Board at the All-Russian Research Institute of Rice; from 2003 to 2015, he was the Chairman of the State Attestation Commission at the Kuban State Agrarian University. Alexander Vasilievich Kochegura is the author and main co-author of 42 soybean cultivars included in the State Register of Selection Achievements of the Russian federation; 35 patents for developed soybean cultivars and 11 patents for breeding methods; 239 scientific works, including 8 monographs and 146 scientific articles.

Alexander Vasilievich skillfully combined scientific work with pedagogical activity. He taught many young breeders, giving them a reliable start in life and he always shared generously his fundamental knowledge with them. His legacy will be multiplied by the deeds of grateful students!

A.V. Kochegura gave more than 46 years of his life to his favorite agricultural crop – soybean. The results of his work were highly appreciated: in 2001, he was awarded with the V.S. Pustovoit Gold Medal of the Russian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, in 2003, he was awarded with the Silver Medal “For outstanding contribution to the development of the Kuban’, in 2005, he was awarded with a second-class medal of the Order of Merit for the Motherland, in 2006, he was awarded with the honorary title “Laureate of the Russian Soybean Union”, in 2007, he was awarded with the honorary title “Laureate of the Krasnodar region Administration prize in science, education and culture”, in 2016, he was awarded with the medal of the Russian Soybean Union, in 2018, he received the Gratitude of the Head of Administration (Governor) of the Krasnodar region.

Alexander Vasilievich lived a bright life, always had an active position, he had deep humanity, genuine intelligence, high professionalism, love of life and optimism. His whole life is endless dedication to the chosen cause.

The team of V.S. Pustovoit All-Russian research Institute of Oil Crops expresses sincere condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. We grieve with you.

The fond memory of this energetic and cheerful person will remain in our hearts, and his name will remain in the history of Russian breeding.

Recently, winter mustard is becoming popular due to the growing demand for mustard oil seeds. Due to its higher yield potential, winter mustard can be an alternative to spring mustard in very arid regions of cultivation of this crop, for instance, in the northern regions of the Krasnodar, Rostov and Volgograd regions.