Amaranth Preparedness in the Prairies

- Media Relations, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

Enter Palmer amaranth and waterhemp, two types of pigweeds. Both are highly destructive, herbicide-resistant, and able to outcompete existing crops like corn and soybeans. As these weeds spread northwards (it is expected to be in Saskatchewan as early as 2030, if not before), the agricultural community needs to be on guard and prevent the weeds getting a strong foothold.

Dr. Shaun Sharpe of the Saskatoon Research and Development Centre is beginning a four-year project to study Palmer amaranth and waterhemp. He notes that identification is key, and as such will be developing tools such as field identification guides and improved information on plant identification apps. Further down the line, these weeds will be identified and their resistance status characterized via genetic testing and evaluation of cultural techniques to suppress invasions.

The goal is to stop the spread of these pigweeds before they take off.

More detail about this work can be found online at: https://agriculture.canada.ca/en/science/story-agricultural-science/scientific-achievements-agriculture/amaranths-are-coming