To help answer these questions, we have designed a study and outreach plan that focus on better characterizing the ways in which weed management among PNW farmers and ranchers has changed in recent years and the different approaches that have been taken in response. 

It’s that time of year when poison hemlock, a dangerous noxious weed that can be fatal to humans and all classes of livestock, is once again in full growth around the state, officials with the Idaho Weed Awareness Campaign warn.

Take advantage of this window – a time when there are fewer hooves on the ground – to position your grazing acres for when you decide the time is right to grow your herd.

“I’m an optimist, but I have seen fields overrun by kochia, and last year we learned that we have Palmer amaranth and waterhemp,” says Dr. Albert Adjesiwor, University of Idaho Extension weed scientist in Kimberly.

Every day, farmers deal with variables out of their control, from weather to mechanical issues to weed pressure. In recent weeks, a new variable has affected many U.S. growers.

Every farming season brings us new challenges, and 2023 brought us glyphosate-resistant (GR) Palmer amaranth, a new type of pigweed in Idaho. The ramifications of identifying GR Palmer amaranth have the potential to alter current cropping systems in Idaho.

With glyphosate, many see only the risks and not the benefits. A closer look at glyphosate shows that the safety concerns are not scientifically supported, and that the benefits are worth the perceived risk.

Today, drones have the ability to spray herbicides, pesticides and fungicides at 8 feet off the ground. They also can spread solids like seeds, bugs and compost. They do it quietly, quickly and precisely.

Weedy alfalfa is often a concern when water resources are scarce. The weeds sometimes even seem to outcompete the alfalfa in extremely dry years. Weeds can impact forage quality and contribute to toxicities.