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Background

Glyphosate resistance in kochia populations is a growing problem, with over 50% of strains carrying resistance. This study looks at site-specific patch management in an effort to reduce and/or control local populations.

Focusing on the farm-level allows for a targeted approach that takes into consideration the specific qualities of each site such as soil texture, salinity, etc. In addition to site specific management, this study has the aim to use practices that are both economically viable for the farmer, and environmentally sustainable and ideal.

Three research fields with significant kochia patches have been identified. Maps of crop yield, drone imagery, soil conductivity have been collected for each field. These data layers are used to determine where kochia patches are located, which is then verified with ground-truth data collection. Site-specific management strategies are then deployed to manage kochia patches using effective herbicides only where they are required.

Project Details
Timeline 2019-2023
Principal Investigator: Ken Coles
Farming Smarter
Project Contact: Lewis Baarda
Funded By:

CAP (75%), Farming Smarter (25%), FMC

Project Objectives

  • Use various tools to map kochia growth zones in a field over several years.
  • Use the most environmentally ideal and sustainable techniques to control kochia patches.
  • Evaluate different methods of kochia management based on specific field conditions.

Methods

Collaborators or Locations
Burdett, AB
Medicine Hat, AB
Scandia, AB

Treatments
  • Zones of kochia infestation are identified by the use of soil mapping and remote sensing tools.
  • Additional risks such as field edges, oil leases, saline patches, neighbours, etc. are identified.
  • Zone specific herbicide is applied using multiple modes of action and with the least amount of herbicide possible.
  • Quantitative weed biomass and weed ratings are conducted at several points in the growing season.
  • Alternative management strategies such as tillage, mowing, increased seeding rates, salt tolerant cover crops, etc. are evaluated for the zone and potentially used.

Measurements

  • Weed counts conducted in the Spring, Summer, and Fall.
  • Weed biomass in kochia heavy zones after herbicide application.
  • Kochia sample collection for resistance testing.
  • Aerial Imagery collection and analysis.
  • Building and refining kochia zone maps.
  • Herbicide application.

Results

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Articles

Herbicide Resistant Kochia Control
Quick View
Friday, September 16, 2022

This four year study, funded by Canadian Agricultural Partnership, had locations in Bow Island, Enchant, and Medicine Hat. We investigated precision agriculture tools and mitigation opportunities available for the fight against resistant kochia.

Getting Eyes & Ears in the Field
Quick View
Thursday, May 19, 2022

Every farmer should scout their fields for weeds. Scouting throughout the season gives you the advantage of knowing how your crop is handling the competition. Each growing season is different, but the more you learn about your field the better...

Following Up on Glyphosate-Resistant Kochia Control
Quick View
Friday, November 26, 2021

Our glyphosate-resistant kochia project is out of the ground and getting ready for the next year!

Kochia Loves This Drought!
Quick View
Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Kochia enjoys a dry, hot year. There is less competition from the crops. Due to the lack of precipitation this year, many crops have experienced inhibited growth which leaves more resources available to the pesky weed.