Lacombe County and Red Deer County are set to host an interactive Weed Awareness tour.
In partnership with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and the University of Alberta, the two counties will host the RETHINKING WEEDS tour on June 17 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Lacombe Research and Development Centre. The event is sponsored by Alberta Canola.
According to the release, participants will get "hands-on experience from industry experts about herbicide-resistant weeds, invasive grasses, and biocontrol solutions."
“As a farmer, our land is our livelihood, and good stewardship starts with knowledge; let’s work together to keep our fields healthy for future generations,” said Jim Wood, Mayor of Red Deer County.
Participants will also learn more about:
• Herbicide resistance;
• Kochia is now in central Alberta; how can we stop it;
• University of Alberta project looking at invasive annual grass management;
• Find out about the new invader Corn Brome;
• University of Alberta project with Canada Thistle and Wild Licorice;
• Get hands-on weed Identification training with over 45 different species.
“Crop and weed research has been underway at our local facilities for decades, and this tour offers producers the chance to learn about invasive species from experts in their own backyard," said Barb Shepherd, Reeve Lacombe County.
"Lacombe County’s strength comes from the hard work of our farmers and the health of our land—by joining forces to identify and manage these weeds, we’re safeguarding our fields and preserving our community’s way of life.”
Dry conditions are forcing farmers to become more innovative in their weed control strategies.
“With the dry weather conditions over the past few years, our pastures are at greater risk of being invaded by weeds; come out to this informative workshop for hands-on learning about what new weeds are here, and how to manage them before they establish," added Lacombe County agricultural manager Cody McIntosh.
Registration is needed for this event, as lunch will also be provided. Participants can reserve spots at RethinkWeeds.eventbrite.ca.
