Research on Jointed Goatgrass In Colorado

Dr. Phil Westra, Weed Scientist at Colorado State University in Ft. Collins, has been conducting jointed goatgrass research for many years.  Dr. Westra has been involved in a long-term, multi-state project to evaluate the effects of cultural practices on jointed goatgrass populations.  Some of the components used in these integrated management systems include increased seeding rates, planting competitive wheat varieties, pre-plant tillage, and fertilizer application by injection rather than broadcasting.  Westra admitted, "Integrated management systems for jointed goatgrass control have not been entirely successful in our research."  Westra adds, "Increased wheat seeding rates and light pre-plant tillage are two practices that producers should continue to use for jointed goatgrass management, in addition to planting certified weed-free seed."

Dr. Westra is also heavily involved in evaluating Clearfield winter wheat for control of jointed goatgrass.  He and his staff at CSU are currently working on a project to evaluate the proper management strategies of imazamox resistant (Clearfield) wheat in crop rotations.  This study is based on the assumption that using Clearfield wheat every 2 or 3 years in conjunction with crop rotations will provide more sustainable jointed goatgrass control and less risk of developing herbicide resistant jointed goatgrass than continuous Clearfield wheat rotations.

Both projects are currently funded by the National Jointed Goatgrass Research Program.  To find out more about the research conducted by Dr. Phil Westra please contact him at pwestra@lamar.colostate.edu or contact Doug Schmale, JGG Extension Coordinator.