By KRISS NELSON

editor@farm-news.com

FORT DODGE -According to Bob Hartzler, weed science professor at Iowa State University, “it’s time to rethink weed control” and will present that subject during the Farm News Ag Show.

Hartzler is scheduled to speak from 1p.m. – 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 6.

“While herbicide resistance isn’t new, the speed at which a few weed species are evolving resistance threatens the current production system,” he said. “Waterhemp is Iowa’s most common herbicide resistant weed. We have identified populations in the state that are resistant to five different herbicide groups. This leaves farmer with only a few effective options, and it is inevitable waterhemp will develop resistance to these products if we continue down the same path.”

Hartzler said his presentation will show that herbicides are a limited resource that must be used in a way that protects their viability.

“Weed management must be viewed in terms of the long run where the primary objective is reducing weed populations in fields,” he said. “As profit margins have narrowed and farm size has grown, the focus has shifted to protecting crop yields rather than long-term management of the weed seed bank. While protecting yields is important, if this is the only focus it results in the adoption of weed management systems that jeopardize herbicides.”

In terms of weed management, Hartzler said he tries to look at the big picture, rather than addressing the find details of individual products.

“Hopefully this information will help producers determine what products best fit their operation, and how they can use them in an effective and sustainable method,” he said.

About Bob Hartzler

Hartzler, a native of Indiana, began working with ISU Extension in 1982 as an Extension Associate. After a brief stint on the faculty at Penn State as weed science extension specialist, he returned to ISU in 1989. He is a professor in the Department of Agronomy with responsibilities in extension, teaching, and research.

Hartzler’s presentation is sponsored by CJ Bio America.

Farm News Ag Show

The Farm News Ag Show will be held Wednesday, Dec. 5 from 8:30 a.m. 5 p.m. and Thursday, Dec. 6 from 7:30 a.m. 3 p.m. at the Iowa Central Community College East Camps, 2031 Quail Ave., Fort Dodge.