#USA #Westminster #WSSA #ESA Compliance #Herbicide Guidelines

New Video Series Simplifies ESA Herbicide Compliance for Farmers

In a move that aims to assist agricultural professionals, the Weed Science Society of America (WSSA) has unveiled a new video series focusing on the latest Endangered Species Act (ESA) herbicide label requirements. This initiative comes as part of a broader effort to ensure compliance with evolving environmental standards as herbicides are introduced and re-registered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The Need for Compliance

The continuing updates to the ESA requirements present new challenges for farmers and weed-control professionals. Understanding these complexities is essential not only for legal compliance but also for the protection of endangered species affected by herbicide use. The WSSA, in collaboration with its expert members and various agricultural organizations, has taken steps to address the need for comprehensive guidance.

Video Series Overview

The series consists of four episodes featuring Dr. Stanley Culpepper, a recognized weed scientist from the University of Georgia Extension and a notable figure in WSSA's ESA committee. Dr. Culpepper shares vital information on how to remain compliant with the latest ESA guidelines for herbicide usage. The series has been developed in partnership with CropLife America and is supported by the Agricultural Retailers Association as well as the Council of Producers and Distributors of Agrotechnology.

Dr. Bill Chism, a former EPA official and current chair of WSSA's ESA committee, advocates for the educational value of these videos. He states, “These videos provide excellent, step-by-step guidelines to understand what you need to do to follow the new ESA label requirements and to optimize protections for endangered species.” This series serves as a valuable tool for both newcomers and seasoned professionals in the agricultural sector.

Topics Covered in the Series

The video series goes in-depth into key areas:
1. Mitigation Overview: Understanding the foundational aspects of herbicide application in sensitive areas.
2. Bulletins Live! Two: A resource to check for specific mitigation requirements based on a planned herbicide application.
3. Runoff: Guidance on how to manage runoff risk effectively to protect local ecosystems.
4. Spray Drift: Insights to minimize herbicide drift, which can inadvertently affect areas outside of the target application zone.

Each episode not only addresses the various technical requirements but also covers practical mitigation options, including using vegetative filter strips, practicing cover cropping, and implementing no-till agricultural practices to enhance environmental safety.

Access to Resources

All four parts of the video series are readily accessible through the WSSA’s educational platform. Alongside these videos, a wealth of information regarding herbicide compliance under ESA regulations is available via the WSSA website and a new resource called the Take Action website developed by the Soy Checkoff and GROW Network.

With these resources now available, agricultural professionals are encouraged to embrace the change and equip themselves with the knowledge needed to comply with ESA’s evolving requirements. The goal is clear: to foster better practices that ensure both agricultural productivity and environmental stewardship.

Final Thoughts

The Weed Science Society of America continues to push forward with its mission of educating stakeholders about the significance of weed research and its environmental implications. Farmers and weed control professionals are urged to utilize this new video series as it stands as a testament to responsive science and advocacy in the face of crucial environmental laws. For further details, farmers can visit the WSSA's official website and explore the various resources tailored for their needs.

To learn more and access the video series, visit WSSA's website.