Enhancing Farm Practices through WSSA-NAICC Collaborative Learning

In a significant initiation to bridge knowledge gaps between agricultural practices and regulatory frameworks, the Weed Science Society of America (WSSA) joined hands with the National Alliance of Independent Crop Consultants (NAICC) for an enlightening series of farm tours. These events were conducted with key representatives from federal agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). The tour, which took place on September 23 and 24, 2025, included visits to diverse farms across North Carolina and Virginia and served as a unique platform for shared learning and collaboration.

The agenda for the tour comprised insights into critical issues surrounding the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Bill Chism, the chair of the WSSA ESA Committee, emphasized the importance of this initiative as a mutual learning opportunity among participants. He remarked, “Not every representative from the EPA, FWS, and NMFS possesses a robust agricultural background,” highlighting the need for these individuals to gain firsthand experience in on-farm operations that significantly affect environmental regulations and agricultural practices.

During the two-day tour, attendees visited various farms, including Cedar Point Farms in Virginia and Lassiter Farms in North Carolina, where they observed cotton and peanut crops alongside ongoing conservation efforts. The council consisted of professors and extension specialists from Virginia Tech University and North Carolina State University, who provided presentations on integrated pest management and its vital role in the agricultural landscape.

The WSSA and NAICC conducted discussions focused on developing user-friendly measures for herbicide application that safeguards threatened and endangered species. Chism noted: “We had the opportunity to engage with farmers who've been employing integrated pest management practices for decades. Our aim was to ensure the economic viability of agriculture while concurrently protecting fragile ecosystems.”

A salient point during these discussions was the challenges farmers face concerning low commodity prices and escalating costs associated with crop input and land rental. Adaptation to the evolving ESA requirements, while imperative for biodiversity conservation, poses serious financial strains on farmers. Therefore, the dialogue regarding the economic realities was crucial to understanding the weight of implementing conservation practices.

The tour also included a grower panel that shared personal experiences and offered insights about the current realities of farm economics. One of the major takeaways was the invaluable connection established among farmers, scientists, and regulatory representatives. According to Hilary Sandler, WSSA President, such events promote vital interactions which are central to creating cooperative strategies for sustainable agriculture practices that are economically feasible.

Understanding the intricate balance between protecting the environment and ensuring agricultural productivity is paramount. The collaborative effort between WSSA and NAICC aims to foster better relationships with independent crop consultants, providing vital advisory services to farmers on science-based agronomics and ecosystem preservation. Such initiatives signify strides towards ensuring that the agricultural sector can adapt while still meeting ecological mandates.

For more information about WSSA’s initiatives regarding endangered species, visit WSSA Endangered Species. For details on herbicide resistance management, explore WSSA Weeds. Those interested in learning more about NAICC can visit NAICC. This collaborative learning endeavor represents a steadfast commitment to enhancing agricultural efficiency while emphasizing environmental sustainability and compliance with regulatory frameworks.