BIO Applauds USDA Efforts to Address Weed Resistance

Washington, D.C. (October 16, 2014) – New and diverse strategies are needed for farmers to better fight weeds in today’s agricultural systems says the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO).

“Because weeds are very effective at stealing light, water and nutrients needed by crops, effective weed management is critical to farmers’ productivity,” says Cathleen Enright, BIO’s Executive Vice President for Food and Agriculture. “And while weed resistance has been plaguing farmers for millennia, we are pleased with the urgency that the Department is placing on this challenge.”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced October 15 several new programs aimed at addressing weeds management. 

“The biotechnology and seed industries have been working to develop and promote best practices and stewardship programs and continue to work with weed scientists to better understand resistance issues and improve mitigation strategies,” said Enright.  “USDA’s long commitment to addressing weed resistance is recognized, and with the Department’s announcement of additional new programs, the emphasis for new seeds and crop protection products to give farmers a variety of new tools to fight weeds is welcome news.”

While the emergence of weed resistance is unavoidable, slowing its occurrence is the agricultural community’s responsibility.  Weed scientists point to several factors that contribute to resistance including limited or no crop rotation, a high dependency on a specific herbicide and a limited use of other herbicides.

“Now more than ever farmers and growers need choices when it comes to weed control,” says Enright.  “The biotechnology industry is committed to working with the USDA to develop new products and new tactics to help our farmers better feed the world.”