[Image: Newpath research plots]The rice weed research project has developed into a recognized program across the United States. This project helps Louisiana producers select the best weed control system for their specific needs to increase quality and yield at the most economical price.
This research program has focused on weed control in conventional and herbicide-resistant/tolerant rice. Research results have directly influenced the language and application methods for Command use in rice. Producers can apply Command at an economical price and control grasses and some broadleaf weeds while at the same time reduce off-site movement of herbicides. Due to this research, Command obtained a full federal label in 2000. Several other herbicides have been evaluated in this program and have been labeled for use in rice in recent years. Regiment and Grasp are excellent herbicides for mid- to late-season barnyardgrass control for use in both water- and drill-seeded rice. These products received a full federal label in 2001 and 2005, respectively. Other herbicides that have received full federal labels with support of research generated from this project include Clincher, Ricestar HT and Aim.
In 2002, rice cultivars became available that are tolerant to the herbicide Newpath. This technology has dramatically changed weed control programs. This project was very active during the development of this new technology. For the first time, producers have the ability to control red rice in a rice crop with no detrimental effect on the commercial crop. Research has been conducted evaluating herbicide application timings, effects of flood depths and timings on herbicide activity, weed removal timings, use of other herbicides in resistant/tolerant rice, as well as planting methods.
This program is also currently conducting research on the weed biology and ecology and management of brook paspalum (Paspalum acuminatum), creeping rivergrass (Echinochloa polystachya), knotgrass (Paspalum distichum), Peruvian watergrass (Luziola peruviana), southern watergrass (Luziola fluitans) and water paspalum (Paspalum hydrophilum). These invasive perennial grasses are infesting rice fields in south Louisiana and are a major concern of producers. It is the goal of this project to develop management strategies for these weeds by increasing the understanding of how they develop and reproduce.
In the future, th[Image: Creeping Rivergrass Project]is project will focus on the environmental aspects of rice weed science. Research is currently being conducted on the environmental impact of herbicide-resistant/tolerant rice compared with conventional weed control programs. Herbicide loss, soil loss and water use patterns will be determined. This research will be valuable in determining the environmental impact of these technologies and possibly reduce the off-site movement of pesticides and/or soil.