By United Soybean Board
Planting Patrol: Minnesota farmer-leader spends more time than ever planning weed control
As he waited for his rain-soaked fields to dry in southwestern Minnesota, all Jim Willers could do was continue to plan out what his steps this planting season would be.
Some things will stay the same as previous years, such as the 50-50 rotation of corn and soybeans he plants, just like either he or his dad have used on this farm for the past 45 years. But other things will change, including how he handles herbicide-resistant weeds.
“This year, we are using most of the same varieties as last year, except we are trying some Liberty Link soybeans,” says Willers, a soy checkoff farmer-leader from Beaver Creek. “We’re always looking for options that will help with weed control, which is a problem around here in Minnesota.”
Willers is not alone. Herbicide-resistant weeds, which were once just a regional problem, have become a national threat. These weeds cost soybean farmers time and money.
“We are always trying new modes of action and different combinations of practices to help with weed control”, Willers says. “We’ve been trying new things the last couple of years—different timings and chemical applications. We’re always working on it.”
University research shows using multiple herbicide sites of action provides better control over weeds. That’s why the soy checkoff has played a leading role in establishing Take Action, an industrywide partnership to help farmers manage herbicide resistance.
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