Herbicide-Resistance in Turf Systems: Insights and Options for Managing Complexity

Due to complex interactions between social and ecological systems, herbicide resistance has classic features of a “wicked problem”. Herbicide-resistant (HR) Poa annua poses risk sustainably managing U.S. turfgrass but there is scant knowledge guide its management. Six focus groups were conducted throughout the United States gain understanding socio-economic barriers adopting herbicide-resistance management practices. Professionals from major sectors (golf courses, sports fields, lawn care, seed/sod production) recruited as focus-group participants. Discussions emphasized challenges weed systems compared agronomic crops. This included greater time constraints for weeds more limited chemical control options. Lack about proper use compounds with different modes action was identified threat sustainable There significant regional differences in perceptions existence, geographic scope, causes HR annua. Effective will require tailoring non-chemical practices specific conditions regions. Some participants thought it would be helpful have multi-year programs that are both sector- species-specific.