Posted: March 14, 2011

Dow AgroSciences has announced a new weed control system in its development pipeline that includes a new 2,4-D tolerant trait along with the company's glyphosate tolerant trait.

The technology is branded the "Enlist Weed Control System," the company said in a release. Dow AgroSciences' recently announced new Colex-D technology is part of the system.

"The Enlist Weed Control System integrates our chemistry and biotechnology expertise," says Antonio Galindez, President and CEO, Dow AgroSciences.

This new system targets broad-spectrum control against tough weeds and a wide window for over-the-top application that aligns with the current glyphosate window. Commercial launch of the Enlist system is anticipated in the U.S. in corn for the 2013 crop year with soybean and other crops to follow. Similar launch timeframe is expected for Canada.

More information is available on the Dow AgroSciences website.

Posted: March 14, 2011

The Weed Science Society of America (WSSA) has been a consistent champion of the need to bolster support for critical research involving the management of weeds and invasive plants.

That leadership has helped raise the profile of that need, arguably helping to facilitate actions such as the recent USDA announcement of $23 million for competitive research grants during 2011 in the areas of plant health and crop production, including weed management.

WSSA applauded the decision in a release and says the funding comes at a critical time. "In light of the growing herbicide resistance problems, farmers and land managers need new integrated weed management strategies now more than ever," says Lee Van Wychen, WSSA science policy director. Crop and yield losses due to weeds, insects and diseases can be significant, and uncontrolled weeds typically account for over half of those production losses.

More information is available on the WSSA website.

Posted: March 14, 2011

A customized version of Monsanto's online weed resistance management tool is now available for producers in Eastern Canada.

The tool, available in a version for Western Canada in 2010, helps growers gauge the risk of developing glyphosate resistant weeds within their farming operations. Located at www.weedtool.com, it also provides farmers with strategies to better manage that risk without limiting yield potential, the company says in a release.

In spring 2010 Monsanto Canada announced that evaluations by University of Guelph weed researchers had confirmed a population of glyphosate-resistant giant ragweed in Ontario. This was the first confirmed case of a glyphosate-resistant weed in Canada.

The tool is part of Monsanto's ongoing commitment to product stewardship, says Mark Lawton, technology development lead, Eastern Canada. "Roundup brand herbicides are an important part of a farmer's weed control program and we want to ensure they remain a sustainable solution for farmers well into the future. Our commitment is to give farmers as much information as possible to help them reduce the risk of glyphosate resistance developing on their farm."

More information is available on the Monsanto Canada website.