Author
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Shaner, Dale |
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Submitted to: Phytoparasitica
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Publication Acceptance Date: 1/25/2004 Publication Date: 3/1/2004 Citation: Shaner, D.L. 2004. Precision Weed Management: The wave of the future or just a passing fad?. Phytoparasitica. 32:107-110 Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: Precision farming is applying the right inputs at the right place at the right time. Weeds occur in patches and one of the promises of precision farming is a reduction in herbicide application by applying variable rates and treating only the weed patches instead of applying a uniform rate over the field. There are many potential benefits of precision weed management. One of the major benefits is a reduction in cost due to reduced use of herbicides. It has been estimated that farmers can save between $3 to $20/ha, depending on the herbicide, weed density and type of variable rate application. However, before these multiple benefits of precision weed management can be realized, there are barriers that will need to be overcome. These barriers include the cost of mapping weed patches, and increased risk. . Much work and research needs to be done in order to make precision weed management more user-friendly, less expensive and more robust before it will be widely practiced. |
