As herbicide-resistant waterhemp and giant ragweed continue to narrow weed-control options for Midwest growers, new 2026 research is reinforcing the need for more diversified strategies. Iowa State researchers are reporting increasing multiple resistance in waterhemp, while a new multi-state study found promising results from electrical weed control in soybean.
LASCO Manufacturing will bring that conversation to the Acres U.S.A. Eco-Ag Conference & Trade Show, December 1–4 in Coralville, Iowa, where growers can visit LASCO at Booth # 12 to learn how the Lightning Weeder™ can provide another non-chemical tool for organic and conventional row crops.
The resistance numbers are significant. In a November 2026 report from the Iowa Soybean Association, Iowa State University Extension weed scientist Wes Everman said waterhemp resistance is increasing across key herbicides. A 2019 Iowa survey found that 80% of sampled waterhemp populations were resistant to three, four or five herbicide groups. Researchers are now evaluating samples collected in 2025 and are already seeing more populations with resistance to multiple herbicide groups.
Giant ragweed presents another challenge. Iowa State University Extension reports that resistant giant ragweed biotypes have been identified for both ALS-inhibiting and glyphosate herbicides. For organic soybean growers, who do not have conventional herbicides available as a rescue option, and conventional growers facing resistant escapes, these challenges make additional weed-management tools increasingly important.
“Farmers are being asked to solve a harder weed problem with fewer dependable options,” said Kevin Olson, Founder and CEO of LASCO Manufacturing. “Our goal is to give them another tool they can integrate into the way they already farm. Electric weed control gives growers an opportunity to target weeds that escaped earlier management without another chemical application.”
The LASCO Lightning Weeder uses its patented Electric Discharge System (EDS) to make direct contact with weeds and deliver electrical energy through the plant, rapidly heating cellular fluids and damaging plant tissue. It is designed to complement an integrated weed-management program and provides a non-chemical weed-control option for organic production.
Independent research is also adding to the understanding of where electrical weed control may fit. A 2026 peer-reviewed multi-state study conducted across six Midwestern states, including Iowa, reported 85% control of giant ragweed 14 days after electrical treatment. Waterhemp control ranged from 43% to 78% across seven site-years, with at least 70% control at four sites. Researchers concluded that weed electrocution could be one component of integrated management for late-season weed escapes in soybean.²
LASCO’s own 2026 commercial experience demonstrated growing interest in the technology. According to Olson, several thousand acres were treated with Lightning Weeders through rental machines and custom applicators, targeting waterhemp and other herbicide-resistant weeds. Demand was high enough that some acres went untreated because rental machines and custom applicators were already committed. “If resistant weeds were a problem in your fields this year, don’t wait until they’re standing above the crop again to decide what to do,” Olson said. “Use the winter to evaluate your options and secure the equipment or custom application you may need for next season.”
At Eco-Ag 2026, LASCO will focus on electric weed control for organic soybeans and other row crops, including strategies for waterhemp and giant ragweed. Growers can visit Booth # 12 to learn about the Lightning Weeder, equipment demonstrations, rental options and custom application as they develop their 2027 weed-management plans. The 51st Annual Acres U.S.A. Eco-Ag Conference & Trade Show takes place December 1–4, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Coralville Hotel & Conference Center in Coralville, Iowa. The annual event brings together farmers, agronomists and agricultural innovators focused on organic, regenerative and ecological farming. For more information about LASCO Lightning Weeder, visit www.lightningweeder.com.
