Facilitating adoption of integrated weed management strategies for feathertop Rhodes grass in the northern region, Prg 2. (southern NSW)

Feathertop Rhodes grass is a highly aggressive weed that is continuing to increase in incidence and severity in northern farming systems. The recent confirmation of resistance to glyphosate also highlights the need to manage the weed with an integrated systems approach. This project will conduct a benchmarking survey of the current distribution and level of infestation of feathertop Rhodes grass in southern NSW and investigate the biology and ecology of southern feathertop Rhodes grass populations comparing with the northern ones. These studies will assist in designing the best management program for effective feathertop Rhodes grass management in southern NSW. The roles of pasture/livestock on feathertop Rhodes grass (stopping or favouring the spread) in mixed farming systems will be determined. A range of field trials will be conducted in conjunction with farming groups to evaluate site-specific weed management, effective pre and post emergent herbicidal options in fallows, grazing management, spray/grazing and effective herbicide options in managing feathertop Rhodes grass in pastures. A key component is the extension of this work to growers in southern NSW.