Improving Sustainable Weed Management in Soybean Agroecosystems Through Cover Cropping

Application of sustainable weed management practices in soybean and other agronomic crops will be one of the largest challenges facing farmers, as the evolutionary race between chemical herbicides and herbicide resistant weeds continues. Weed management costs account for a large portion of input costs in soybean cropping systems. With the growing number of herbicide resistant weed species emerging, this cost will continue to rise for farmers. Using an Integrated Weed Management (IWM) strategy with a biological and agroecological focus will lead to a more sustainable model for future weed management in soybean and other cropping systems. I will be studying how management practices for corn and soybean farmers affects populations of marestail (Conyza canadensis), which can greatly reduce crop yields and is harder to manage on large scales in conventional production when herbicide resistant populations evolve. The states in the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education region account for over 15% of total United States soybean production, with farm cash value of over $6 billion annually. This research will provide farmers with a more sustainable method for weed management incorporating cover crops and reduced chemical application. Sustainable agriculture cannot be achieved without promoting good stewardship towards our natural ecosystems, but enhancing the quality of life for farmers must align with these visions.