Hyperspectral Sensor Pushes Weed Science a Wave Further

Jun 20, 2025

By combining artificial intelligence and sensors that can see beyond visible light, Arkansas researchers have developed a system that exceeds human discernment when it comes to measuring herbicide-induced stress in plants.

Scientists with the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station, the research arm of the U of A System Division of Agriculture, recently published a study in Smart Agricultural Technology providing proof-of-concept that hyperspectral sensors, like a spectroradiometer, can help in quantifying herbicide effectiveness, a critical element of weed management that helps curb herbicide resistance.

While normal cameras use three visible light bands red, green and blue to create images in the spectral range of 380 to 750 nanometers, hyperspectral sensing captures bands ranging from 250 nanometers to 2,500 nanometers and thermal infrared.

The researchers used this technology to evaluate how common lambsquarters responded to glyphosate. They also turned up empirical evidence that photosynthesis in the plant actually increased when exposed to a sub-lethal dose of the herbicide. Common lambsquarters Chenopodium album L. is a weed in agricultural and garden settings.

Source : uark.edu

Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.