Off-target movement of agricultural chemicals is sometimes an issue in production agriculture. Although highly effective on several broadleaf weeds in pastures and rights-of-way, the auxin or growth regulator herbicides can damage sensitive crops if not used properly.

The Herbicide Stewardship Program strives to educate stakeholders about management practices that will reduce the risk of off-target damage and also provide diagnostic aids to help identify the cause of crop injury.

The positive outcomes of practicing herbicide stewardship are three-fold. First, damage to sensitive crops can be minimized. Second, environmental damage from misuse of herbicides is also limited. Without careful management, some pasture herbicides have characteristics that can restrict the use of resources. Third, herbicide stewardship practices can help protect technology that producers rely on for their operation.