Expert Panel Offers Solutions to Weed Resistance Issues

During the recently concluded 2012 Ag Issues Forum in North Carolina, scientists discussed the problem of herbicide resistant weeds becoming more widespread. According to the International Survey of Herbicide Resistant Weeds, there are already 139 different types of resistant weeds in the United States.

In the discussion with noted experts Dr. Aaron Hager, Associate Professor of Weed Science at the University of Illinois and Dr. Larry Steckel, Associate Professor, Plant Science, a proactive approach was recommended that includes a rotation of pre-emergence herbicides being the best option.

Other strategies to solve the problem include the National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) program that offer financial assistance to those farmers that had weed resistance pressures but maintained conservation stewardship. NRCS pays at least 75 percent of the costs of hiring technical assistance to develop conservation activity plans that outline weed management programs. Assistance is also available to offset some of the added costs or reduced income from managing weed resistance issues in order to preserve conservation practices on the farm.

Another approach is "The Respect the Rotation" program, initiated by Bayer CropScience in 2010, which has also offered solutions to weed resistance issues by encouraging the rotation of crops, traits and herbicides for a successful weed management program.

For more information, see http://www.bayercropscience.us/news/press-releases?storyId=ccc45135-4657-47c1-aa4e-4d86d897740e