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Herbicide impact on Rio Grande do Sul viticulture

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2026-08-09 02:15 UTC → 2026-08-15 22:29 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Family farming in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, contributes approximately 40% of the state's agricultural GDP, dominating the production of milk, tobacco, and bananas. However, the sector faces demographic challenges due to an aging farmer population. Parallel concerns regarding the expansion of soybean cultivation have emerged, specifically regarding the use of hormonal herbicides. ~~Recent studies indicate~~ A study by ConceVitis-RS and UFRGS estimates that herbicide drift ~~has~~ caused ~~significant damage to the state's viticulture industry. Estimates suggest that between 2018 and 2025, the drift caused~~ approximately R$ 210 million in ~~losses, including~~ economic losses to grape production ~~decreases,~~ between 2018 and 2025. These losses stem from lost harvests, increased management costs, and ~~vineyard abandonment.~~ the premature need to renew vineyards due to plant deformities and reduced productivity. At least 700 hectares of vineyards have been affected across various production hubs. Projections indicate that continued herbicide issues could result in an additional R$ 150.1 million in losses over the next five years. Additionally, the state has concluded wheat planting for the upcoming season with a projected area of 814,220 hectares, marking a 30.18% decrease compared to 2025. This decline is attributed to low cereal prices and producer concerns regarding crop quality and productivity linked to El Niño weather patterns. While productive potential remains within initial expectations, high humidity levels have increased the risk of diseases such as leaf spot and gibberella.

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