What is in this article?:
- Glyphosate resistance is here to stay
- Farmers need to develop management strategies
- Tools are available
Help is on the way
Farmers are getting help. “Most Extension specialists have statewide efforts in place to educate growers, dealers, distributors, consultants, state agricultural agencies and the public.
“Extensive research efforts have been developed in states where resistance is occurring. Monitoring efforts are widespread and industry and universities are working to eradicate new outbreaks as much as possible.”
Shaw said efforts should be focused, targeting appropriate groups, including media, growers, dealers and distributors, and consultants. “Information must be accurate,” he said. “And the message must be consistent and urgent.”
He recommends mode of action labeling on herbicide containers to make producers aware of what they apply.
He said a double-handful of organizations is involved in developing educational materials including: the National Research Council, the National Cotton Council, the National Corn Growers Association, the American Soybean Association, National Association of Conservation Districts, Herbicide Resistance Action Committee, CropLife America, USDA-APHIS, USDA-NRCS, USDA-NIFA, and EPA.
“Glyphosate resistance is here to stay,” Shaw said. But he also acknowledged that the industry needs more science to understand the effectiveness of resistance management practices. “We also need to learn how to keep it from happening again.
‘We have enough tools and knowledge to do what needs to be done.”