WSSA Urges Against the Closure of Key Research Labs Vital for Agriculture

In a significant move, the Weed Science Society of America (WSSA) has expressed its strong opposition to the proposed closures and downsizing of Agricultural Research Service (ARS) laboratories as part of a USDA reorganization plan. Dated August 18, 2025, the letter addressed to the Secretary of Agriculture highlights the critical role these labs play in maintaining the competitiveness of American agriculture and addressing pressing agricultural challenges.

The letter was co-signed by representatives from WSSA and five of its affiliates, namely the Aquatic Plant Management Society (APMS), North Central Weed Science Society (NCWSS), Northeastern Weed Science Society (NEWSS), Southern Weed Science Society (SWSS), and Western Society of Weed Science (WSWS). All parties united in their appeal to reconsider any decisions that may lead to the downsizing or closure of these essential research facilities.

In their communication, WSSA underscored that ARS laboratories are pivotal not just for fostering innovation and scientific discoveries but also for tackling urgent issues facing modern agriculture, including herbicide resistance, invasive species, soil health management, food security, and the development of more effective weed control methods. These labs operate across diverse geographic regions, allowing for tailored research that meets the unique needs of local farming systems and ecosystems.

WSSA president Dr. Hilary Sandler emphasized the irreplaceable value of the scientific and economic contributions made by ARS labs. She articulated concern that laboratory closures could lead to irreparable harm to the nation's scientific capacity critical for its food systems. The letter also pointed out that while improving efficiency and reducing duplication of efforts are commendable objectives, consolidating labs risks diminishing the long-term research programs that are essential for public good—particularly in foundational agricultural sciences that private sectors often neglect.

The organization highlighted that any short-term cost savings derived from such closures would be overshadowed by long-term adverse impacts on productivity, biosecurity, and environmental sustainability. Furthermore, they raised alarm over the potential local economic repercussions, concerning the partnerships that would weaken with land-grant universities, and the disruption of substantial investments made in research infrastructures over decades.

The USDA opened a 30-day comment period for stakeholders to respond to the reorganization plan but closed it on August 26, 2025. Despite this, WSSA, along with its affiliate professional societies, remain committed to collaborating with the USDA in strengthening agricultural research networks, such as ARS, to nurture an innovative and resilient food system.

For more detailed insights into WSSA's stance on science policy and agricultural research, visit this link. The complete letter opposing ARS lab closures can be accessed here.

As a pivotal nonprofit scientific society established in 1956, the WSSA plays an instrumental role in fostering knowledge regarding weeds and their ecological impact. The society is dedicated to promoting research, educational outreach, and providing vital information to the public, thereby enhancing understanding and management of weeds within various ecosystems. For further details, please visit www.wssa.net.