We asked Corteva Range & Pasture specialists for their thoughts on the issues and trends that could affect your weed-control plans over the next five years. Here’s what they said.
Ask any producer what they’d like that they don’t have, and more than a few would likely say “a crystal ball.” Markets, trends, public sentiment, and the weather all seem to defy our predictions out of spite; producers who have a clear vision and are ready with a plan when things go pear-shaped are the ones who’ll have the best chance of success.
With weed control being an integral part of pasture management and forage production, we asked Corteva Range & Pasture specialists for their thoughts on the issues that could impact weed control programs in the next five years.
While most producers aren’t seeing completely new species move in, many are seeing growing populations of weeds that are more prevalent in other areas. Whether due to a shifting climate or the cross-country movement of thousands of tons of hay, invasive weeds are getting the team’s attention.
“As the southern climate moves further north, we’re seeing higher populations of some weeds. Northern states are seeing more of those annual weeds that producers in the Midwest might be more familiar with. We’re seeing higher kochia populations, for example. Eastern Cedar is a big one, too.”
“As more regions are impacted by drought, they’re bringing in more hay from other areas and this is contributing to the spread of weeds.”
“Poison hemlock has really exploded over the last five years; it’s a sizeable problem in my territory now. It’s crept into bareground areas and has really taken off.”
There’s reason for optimism as well. Advances in formulating technology are helping manufacturers add new value to proven active ingredients and make products that are easier to apply, store or transport. The team’s thoughts:
“A lot of product goes out by aerial application, so there’s potential for off-target movement. But new non-volatile or low-volatility formulations make applications easier; using a product that’s non-volatile doesn’t eliminate the risk, but it reduces it.”
“As we bring to market new options, we know they have to be more user-friendly. We need weed and brush control options that are easier to use.”
Without that crystal ball, producers may be wondering how best to prepare for the next half-decade’s worth of challenges. Our field team’s advice:
“Have a plan. Things will change, and if your operation is dependent on any one thing, think about what happens and what you’ll do if that one thing changes.”
“Be adaptable. Be willing to switch from fall to spring spraying, for example. And think through every decision; the choices that producers make in the fall could impact their ability to sell hay the next summer.”
“We need to be very efficient. We need to be able to produce more grass and turn that into more pounds of beef per acre. Efficiency is the name of the game, and weed control is an important part of that.”
“Cattle prices are good right now; use these good years to really clean up your pastures so when the leaner years come – and they always do – you’ll be in a better position.”
