This map (from NYTimes article on May 6th) shows the prevalence and intensity of a new breed of weeds -- resistant to the ubiquitous RoundUp™ herbicide made by Monsanto (generically known as glyphosate).
Agronomists have genetically modified seeds for most of our US food crops. Soy and corn are of course the predominant crops in what is increasingly a monoculture on large farms. We have had the privilege of working with people on both sides of this topic -- smart and principled PhD’s in bioscience companies -- as well as the stalwarts of sustainable agriculture. It has been personally interesting and challenging to me (as a nonscientist) to sort through the technical arguments and mutual demonization which is too often characterized the important debate about how to best feed the planet while retaining its good health.
In this case, there seems to be a pretty good consensus about the best course of action given this widely predicted development: namely, diversification. Rotation of crops, modulation of the herbicide application, and the application of a broader range of strategies and techniques in weed control. Glyphosate is remarkable stuff—cheap, effective, and not hugely toxic. But like many things, this may be a case of too much of a good thing…
In this case, there seems to be a pretty good consensus about the best course of action given this widely predicted development: namely, diversification. Rotation of crops, modulation of the herbicide application, and the application of a broader range of strategies and techniques in weed control. Glyphosate is remarkable stuff—cheap, effective, and not hugely toxic. But like many things, this may be a case of too much of a good thing…
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| Herbicide application - photo from New York Times |
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