Integrating Best Management Practices for Herbicide-Resistant Weeds and Herbicide Stewardship in Soybean Production (FY21)

The funding from this grant will be used to support research demonstrations and educational efforts to promote good stewardship with the introduction of new herbicide tolerant soybeans in Kentucky and continued educational efforts on managing herbicide-resistant weeds. Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus plameri), waterhemp (Amaranthus rudis), and horseweed (Conyza canadensis), are examples of glyphosate resistant weeds that will be targeted. In addition, populations of Amaranthus species have been identified in Kentucky to be resistant to herbicides within the PPO inhibitor mode of action group. Field technicians will assist Extension weed scientists in conducting field research trials to collect data pertaining to planting into green covercrops to mitigate early season Palmer amaranth, waterhemp, and horseweed emergence. A second trial will evaluate the effectiveness of chafflining for harvest weed seed control of Palmer amaranth and waterhemp. Finally a third research project will collect temperature inversion data in a lowland versus upland location in western KY. The collaborative effort of the project will see Kentucky data being culminated with other researcher's data to help develop BMP (Best Management Practices) for control of these troublesome weeds utilizing the newest soybean traits and mitigation off-target movement of herbicides. Kentucky data will also be disseminated within the state to target audiences of growers, Extension agents, crop consultants, private and commercial pesticide applicators, and other agricultural industry representatives.