Glyphosate Resistant Weed Update
2008
- UW-Madison Dept. of Agronomy
Project Media
Weeds evolve in response to the management practices that we impose on them. The evolution of herbicide-resistant weed biotypes is just one example of their adaptation. In regards to herbicide resistance, we have experienced two major periods in the evolution of herbicide resistance starting with triazine resistance and followed by ALS-inhibitor resistance. Currently, we are in the midst of a time period where the evolution and spread of glyphosate-resistant weeds is occurring. In reflecting on this current time, I wonder if we also evolve in how we respond to herbicide resistant weeds. Do we progress through five phases similar to the Kubler-Ross model, which are 1) denial, 2) anger, 3) bargaining, 4) depression, and 5) acceptance? Let me explain using a little literary license on the original model.