Dear colleagues,

first of all, let me also express my deep mourning for Dr. Marco Quadranti who left us suddenly this summer. I would like to recognize all of his effort dedicated to the Society and building of European weed science. Marco represented the motivated generation of applied biologists who strongly contributed to the establishment of weed science as a respected field of research along the other crop protection disciplines in the second half of the 20th century. Thanks to his communication skills and professional background, he successfully created bridges between theoretical and applied scientists with an aim to enrich each other by different experience and views. He also saw the potential in talented young people and fostered early career development through their involvement in company projects as well as Society activities. He will live forever in our memories as a friendly, amusing and always respected colleague.

The year 2023 is now in its second half and we still have a lot of activities planned. Some of you may have noticed in July that the European Food Safety Agency published the conclusions following the peer review of the initial risk assessments carried out by the Assessment Group on Glyphosate. The assessment of glyphosate impact on humans, animals and environment did not identify any critical areas of concern. Since the current approval for glyphosate will disappear in December, the next stage in the approval process for the renewal will quickly follow this autumn in the European Commission and Member States. As an outcome of the meeting on the subject held last November in Prague and thanks to EWRS support, Prof. Paul Neve led an effort of 20 experienced scientists in completing a manuscript about the current and future glyphosate use in European agriculture.  I hope the manuscript will be accepted and published soon to add to the relevant information used by decision makers at national and European levels when finalising the approval procedure. I think we should continue in this kind of activities because part of the mission of the Society is to provide scientific opinion for evidence-based decision making. From that point of view, we also have to thank all of our colleagues who dedicate their time to the work with EPPO and HRAC on European herbicide resistance database, risk assessment of invasive species, those who provide advise governmental institution at national levels, and other similar activities which are an invaluable contribution to the importance of our discipline in the larger society. The visibility and awareness of our Society and research efforts grow in this way. In reaction to current policy requirements and new trends in agricultural practice, the Society is also revitalising the EWRS Working Group focused on biocontrol. I hope the kick-off meeting being held in Aveiro, Portugal in September, under the organizational leadership of Prof. Heinz Müller-Schärer, will be successful and will open the door for future Society activities in this important field of research.       

In the beginning of November, the Society will hold annual Foundation Board, SciCom, Board and General Assembly meetings. The exact date and venue will be decided soon and if it is technically possible, we will arrange an on-line access to these meetings. Besides regular points in the agenda, we will have to decide on the future management of the membership office and societal assets. New Vice-President, Board Secretary and Treasurer will need to be elected before the end of the year, so the election will be announced soon after the vacations. I would like to encourage colleagues -who are experienced a bit in the Society life, enjoy teamwork, have good ideas, and are willing to dedicate their time to send an application and run for these top functions in the Society. Dynamism and fresh ideas are important features for adaptation in changing environments, it makes our Society vital and productive.  

Have a nice summer!

Josef Soukup

4 August 2023