Monsanto is launching a new online Weed Resistance Risk Assessment Program for growers who use Roundup Ready weed control technology. Located on the Web at www.weedtool.com, the program was created to help farmers gauge the risk of developing glyphosate-resistant weeds in their fields. In addition, it offers best farming practices to manage those risks without limiting yield potential.
Monsanto developed the program in cooperation with seven leading universities: Purdue University, University of Nebraska, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, the University of Missouri, Michigan State University, North Carolina State University and Iowa State University.
With the help and advice of university weed science experts, 10 brief questions were developed as the basis for this farmer field-by-field assessment. After participants answer the field-related questions, they are assigned a risk rating score. Then, their three highest scoring questions are addressed with corresponding best farming practices designed to help lower their weed resistance risk. In addition to the situation-specific recommendations, users have access to weed management guides for tough-to-control weeds, academic weed resistance tip boxes and other university weed specialist articles.
The Web-based tool is the first interactive risk assessment component of Monsanto’s overall glyphosate stewardship plan. Monsanto continually evaluates its recommendations for effective weed control and provides alternate weed control recommendations to control tough or resistant weeds. Monsanto also sponsors extensive research, often through partnerships with university cooperators, on weed resistance and the company develops best management practices for different cropping systems.