Marestail Herbicide: Its Role and Agricultural Impact
Intro
Marestail, also known as Conyza canadensis, is a perennial weed that has become a thorn in the side of many farmers and agricultural professionals. Its resilience and ability to adapt make it a formidable opponent in the world of weed management. Understanding how to effectively use herbicides designed to combat marestail is crucial for maintaining sustainable agricultural practices.
In this article, we will take a closer look at marestail herbicide. We will break down its characteristics, applications, and ecological effects. Furthermore, the information presented here aims to furnish readers with the tools they need to make informed decisions about weed control strategies, particularly for marestail. Whether you are a seasoned farmer or just getting your hands dirty, knowing your enemy starts with understanding marestail.
Prolusion to Marestail Herbicide
In the world of agriculture, managing weeds is a topic as old as farming itself. When it comes to controlling invasive species, marestail herbicide has emerged as a significant player. Itās not just another chemical on the shelf; it is a tool that farmers can employ to address the stubborn challenges presented by these hardy weeds. Marestail, or Conyza canadensis, can be particularly annoying, sprouting in fields and competing for resources, thus making it crucial for farmers to understand both the herbicide and its broader context.
Marestail herbicide serves as a linchpin in weed management strategies, offering options for both conventional and organic farms. Understanding its characteristics helps with informed decision-making in diverse agricultural settings. The herbicideās role extends beyond just weed removal; it contributes to the overall health of crops by reducing competition and potentially increasing yields. Not to mention, understanding the formulation and application process can help minimize environmental impacts when used responsibly.
What is Marestail?
Marestail is a perennial weed that can be quite the thorn in the side of agricultural practitioners. Known for its rapid growth and resilience, it can reach heights of nearly 4 feet and is often one of the first plants to emerge in the spring. This hardy nature allows it to thrive in various conditions, which adds complexity to managing it. As gardeners and farmers have learned the hard way, once marestail settles in, it can be very challenging to eradicate.
"Understanding marestailās life cycle and growth habits can help in developing effective control strategies."
Given its ability to resist certain herbicides, tackling marestail can require a multi-faceted approach. This means understanding not only the weed itself but also how herbicides can interact with it. Knowledge of this dynamic can guide agricultural practices and potentially save resources in the long run.
Importance of Herbicides in Agriculture
Herbicides like those designed for marestail play a critical role in modern agriculture. They help farmers mitigate the impact of weeds, which can consume vital nutrients and hinder cropsā ability to thrive. Herbicides can be a farmerās best friend, allowing them to maintain productivity and support food supply chains, especially in an age where efficiency is paramount.
However, the importance of these chemicals doesnāt come without caveats. Farmers must weigh the benefits against potential environmental costs. An inappropriate application may not only damage crop systems but also negatively affect soil health and local ecosystems. Therefore, fostering a strong understanding of herbicides ensures that agricultural professionals can use these products effectively and sustainably.
Chemical Composition of Marestail Herbicide
The chemical composition of marestail herbicide is an essential topic, serving as the backbone of its effectiveness in agricultural practices. Understanding the active ingredients and formulation types helps in grasping how this herbicide tackles the persistent marestail weed. Knowledge about these components not only informs better usage but also fosters a more responsible approach to weed management.
Active Ingredients
Marestail herbicide typically comprises several active ingredients that play crucial roles in its functionality. These ingredients vary depending on the formulation but often include glyphosate, dicamba, and 2,4-D. Glyphosate is a systemic herbicide that intercepts the metabolic processes in plants, inhibiting their growth effectively.
- Glyphosate: This ingredient is known for its broad-spectrum effectiveness, disrupting the pathways involved in amino acid synthesis. Crops treated with glyphosate usually show visible damage to targeted weeds without harming the surrounding vegetation.
- Dicamba: Often paired with glyphosate, dicamba expands the range of herbicide effectiveness. It targets broadleaf plants and prevents their cell growth by mimicking natural plant hormones.
- 2,4-D: This herbicide disrupts plant hormone balance and is particularly effective against various perennial plants and annual broadleaf weeds.
It's necessary to recognize that while these active ingredients are effective, they can also pose environmental risks if not applied judiciously. Improper usage can lead to herbicide resistance in weeds and unintended harm to non-target species, making it vital to comprehend their role within the overall chemical profile of marestail herbicide.
Formulation Types
When it comes to formulations, marestail herbicide is available in various types, tailored for specific goals and application methods. The two predominant categories are selective and non-selective herbicides.
- Selective Herbicides: These are designed to target specific weeds while sparing desirable plants. Marestail herbicide, with ingredients like dicamba and 2,4-D, often falls into this category. Farmers can apply it in situations where certain crops are grown alongside competitive weeds without harming them.
- Non-selective Herbicides: In contrast, non-selective herbicides, such as those featuring glyphosate, do not differentiate between species. They eliminate all vegetation in their path, making them beneficial for total weed control in non-crop areas or before planting new crops.
Another factor to consider is the form in which these herbicides are delivered. Marestail herbicide comes in liquid, granule, or pellet formulations. Each has its own application approach and effectiveness based on soil conditions and target plants.
Mechanism of Action
Understanding the mechanism of action of marestail herbicide is crucial for grasping its role in managing marestail weeds. This herbicideās effectiveness hinges on precise biochemical interactions that disrupt various physiological functions in the target plants. When applied correctly, marestail herbicide drastically reduces the weed's ability to thrive, thereby facilitating better crop yield and soil management.
Herbicide Uptake
The process of herbicide uptake begins as plants absorb the chemical through their leaves, stems, and roots. Marestail herbicide employs a foliar uptake mechanism, meaning that the leaves play a pivotal role in absorbing the substance. Once on the leaf surface, factors like humidity and temperature influence the rate of absorption significantly.
For effective uptake, precise conditions are necessary:
- Environmental factors: Adequate moisture on the foliage enhances absorption. Rainfall within a few hours post-application can greatly affect efficiency.
- Plant physiology: Younger leaves, rich in chlorophyll, typically have a higher uptake rate compared to older leaves. This is where timing becomes essential. Spraying during early growth stages can yield better results.
This chemical travels through the plant's vascular system, causing systemic effects which can be particularly lethal to marestail.
Impact on Plant Growth
Once absorbed into the plant tissue, marestail herbicide interferes with growth regulators and photosynthesis. Key impacts include:
- Inhibition of cell division: Marestail herbicide disrupts the cell division process, leading to stunted growth. The plant, unable to efficiently produce new cells, effectively stagnates.
- Blocked photosynthesis: The herbicide also targets chlorophyll production, reducing the plant's ability to convert sunlight into energy. This eliminates the necessary fuels for growth and reproductive functions.
- Chlorosis and necrosis: As the herbicide takes effect, symptoms such as yellowing of the leaves (chlorosis) and eventual tissue death (necrosis) manifest, leading the plant towards demise.
In essence, the mechanism of action behind marestail herbicide is not just about killing weeds; itās about understanding how the herbicide intricately engages with the plant systems to thwart growth.
By exploring these mechanisms, agricultural professionals can strategically implement the use of marestail herbicide to optimize yield and enhance weed management practices in a sustainable manner.
Applying Marestail Herbicide
The application of Marestail herbicide is a crucial topic within the broader discussion of weed management in agriculture. This herbicide plays a vital role in controlling a notoriously stubborn weed, often referred to by its scientific name, Conyza canadensis. Farmers and agriculturalists faced with the challenges posed by marestail need informed strategies to manage both the crop yield and the surrounding ecosystem. Proper application ensures that resources aren't wasted, leading to better financial outcomes and healthier crops.
Best Practices for Application
Marestail herbicide is most effective when applied with a clear plan in mind. Here are some recommended best practices to consider:
- Read the Label Thoroughly: Understanding the manufacturerās guidelines is essential before application. The label provides crucial information on the concentration, recommended method, and specific crops that can tolerate treatment.
- Adequate Calibration: It is vital to calibrate sprayers to ensure consistent delivery of the herbicide. Inconsistent application could lead to either ineffective weed control or crop damage.
- Use Appropriate Weather Conditions: Choose a day that isnāt windy and has low humidity levels for application. Weather can greatly influence the efficacy of herbicides. Applying on a calm day decreases the chances of drift, preventing harm to non-target plants.
- Prioritize Site Preparation: A well-prepared site will facilitate better absorption of herbicide and improve its effectiveness. Remove any debris and ensure that the soil structures are conducive to treatment.
- Monitor the Surrounding Environment: Be aware of the flora and fauna in the vicinity. Protecting beneficial insects and neighboring crops can be achieved by applying the herbicide responsibly and with forethought.
Effective management requires attention to detail, from preparation to execution.
Regular training and awareness programs for farmhands on the topic of herbicide application can promote safer practices.
Timing and Frequency of Application
Knowing when and how often to apply Marestail herbicide can significantly alter its impact on weed control. Here are some key considerations:
- Early Identification: The earlier you spot marestail, the better. Applying the herbicide at the early stages of growth, ideally before the weed blooms, enhances its effectiveness.
- Seasonal Timing: Generally, late winter or early spring is when marestail is most vulnerable. Applying in these months can capitalize on the plantās growth cycle.
- Follow-Up Applications: Depending on the infestation level, a follow-up application may be necessary. Itās important to evaluate the results after the first treatment and determine whether a second round is warranted.
- Environmental Factors: Keep an eye on rainy periods that may wash away the herbicide before it can take effect. Too much rain shortly after application can dilute its potency.
- Regulatory Guidelines: Be sure to adhere to recommendations concerning the maximum number of applications within a growing season. Over-application can lead to resistance issues or unintended negative environmental impacts.
In summary, an effective strategy encompassing the right practices and optimal timing not only combats marestail but also safeguards the environment and promotes sustainable farming practices.
Efficacy Evaluation
The importance of efficacy evaluation in agriculture cannot be overstated, especially when discussing herbicides like marestail. This section explores how effective application of marestail herbicide translates into practical benefits for farmers and the broader agricultural community. It highlights how making informed decisions based on efficacy data is crucial in managing weeds effectively.
Proper efficacy evaluation leads to several key benefits:
- Yield Improvement: By effectively controlling marestail, farmers can see notable increases in crop yields. This is particularly important in crops where marestail competes vigorously for resources.
- Cost-Effective Practices: Understanding the effectiveness of marestail herbicide helps in optimizing its use, ensuring that farmers are not overspending on ineffective products or treatments.
- Sustainable Management: Continuous evaluation ensures that farmers can adapt and develop best practices that promote long-term sustainability on their farms, avoiding reliance on single control methods that may lead to resistance.
In this light, the subsequent sections will delve into specific field studies and results that illustrate the herbicide's impact, as well as address resistance issues that pose challenges in weed management.
Field Studies and Results
Field studies are essential in validating the claims made about marestail herbicide. These studies empirically assess its effectiveness through various agricultural trials. Research conducted in different types of crops, like soybeans and corn, presents interesting insights. For instance, a study conducted over multiple growing seasons revealed that herbicide applications significantly reduced marestail infestation.
- Trial Locations: Many studies were carried out in diverse climates to ascertain how environmental factors influence effectiveness.
- Application Rates: Results have shown how varying the rate of application can lead to different levels of weed control.
- Outcome Measurements: Yield data from treated plots versus untreated controls exemplified the herbicideās role in weed suppression.
Such evidence from field studies provides farmers confidence in the decision to incorporate marestail herbicide into their weed management protocols.
Resistance Issues
Resistance of weeds to herbicides is an issue that cannot be ignored. The over-reliance on marestail herbicide can lead to a situation where marestail develops resistance, making it increasingly difficult to control. Understanding resistance issues is crucial for any comprehensive assessment of herbicide efficacy.
- Resistance Development: It is observed that repeated applications without rotation with other control measures can lead to herbicide resistance. This necessitates strategies to combat this problem.
- Management Strategies: Best practices suggest integrating mechanical, cultural, and biological methods alongside chemical applications to minimize resistance development.
- Monitoring and Adjustments: Continuous monitoring of weed populations helps in making timely adjustments in herbicide application methods.
The understanding of resistance issues paves the way for developing a more robust and sustainable approach to weed management, ensuring that marestail herbicide continues to play a significant role in agriculture.
Environmental Implications
Understanding the environmental implications of marestail herbicide is crucial in today's agricultural landscape. As farmers and herbicide applicators focus on optimizing crop yields, the effects on surrounding ecosystems often take a back seat. Yet, these implications are multi-faceted and deeply intertwined with effective weed management strategies.
Impact on Non-target Species
One of the primary concerns with any herbicide application, including marestail herbicide, is its potential to affect non-target species. Non-target species are the plants and animals that are not intended to be affected by the herbicide but may still suffer consequences from its use.
- Biodiversity Risk: The application of marestail herbicide can disrupt the local flora and fauna. For instance, beneficial insects like pollinators may ingest residues or experience habitat loss due to the herbicide's broad-spectrum activity.
- Aquatic Systems: If marestail herbicide seeps into waterways, it can pose risks to aquatic life. Species such as frogs and fish may be sensitive to certain chemical compounds, leading to population declines if the water becomes contaminated.
"Understanding the balance of agricultural productivity and ecological health is key. Using such herbicides responsibly can help mitigate risks."
- Soil Microorganisms: Additionally, marestail herbicide can have indirect effects on soil health through its impact on microorganisms that play a vital role in nutrient cycling. Damaging these communities can hinder plant growth, affecting not only the crops but also the surrounding ecosystem.
Soil Health Considerations
Soil health is perhaps one of the most critical aspects influenced by the use of marestail herbicide. This topic is not just about the immediate effects but also concerns the long-term health and sustainability of agricultural practices.
- Chemical Residue: The residue left in the soil following herbicide application can alter pH levels and organic matter content. This alteration might affect the microbial community, essential for maintaining soil structure and fertility.
- Nutrient Availability: Certain herbicides can bind with nutrients in the soil, making them less available for crops. Over time, this might necessitate increased fertilizer usage, leading to a cycle of dependency that can be detrimental to both the land and the farmerās pocketbook.
- Erosion and Runoff: It is also important to consider how herbicide use can contribute to soil erosion. With reduced vegetation cover, the soil becomes more vulnerable to wind and water erosion, potentially leading to nutrient loss and increased sediment in downstream water bodies.
Farmers must weigh these environmental implications carefully. While marestail herbicide can effectively control resistant weed populations, the potential consequences on non-target species and soil health cannot be overlooked. Itās a balancing act that demands informed decision-making and a commitment to sustainable management practices.
Regulatory Framework
Understanding the regulatory framework surrounding marestail herbicide is crucial for its effective and responsible use in agriculture. Regulations are designed not only to ensure the safety and efficiency of herbicides but also to protect ecosystems, human health, and the livelihood of farmers. This section will explore the specifics of approval and registration processes, alongside the importance of label compliance, creating a comprehensive understanding of the responsibilities tied to herbicide use.
Approval and Registration Process
The approval and registration of marestail herbicide involves a multifaceted approach. At the heart of it lies the assessment of its effectiveness, safety, and potential environmental risks. In the United States, for example, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plays a vital role.
- Application Submission: Manufacturers start by submitting data that includes scientific studies on effectiveness and safety evaluations. This information covers a broad range of factors, need to be meticulously drafted.
- Review Process: After submission, the EPA reviews the data. This process can be quite lengthy, sometimes taking years. Evaluators consider the new herbicide's potential impact on non-target species, human health, and its behavior in the environment.
- Public Involvement: Some stages may include public comment periods where stakeholders can voice concerns or support. Itās an essential part of maintaining transparency.
- Final Decision: If the herbicide passes all the tests, it gets a registration label, allowing it to be sold and used in the field.
This approval process ensures that if farmers use marestail herbicide, they do so with knowledge that it meets established safety standards.
Label Compliance
Label compliance is another cornerstone in the regulatory framework for marestail herbicide. Once a herbicide is approved, it comes with a label that outlines specific instructions and legal requirements. Hereās why staying compliant with label directions is paramount:
- Legal Obligations: Using the herbicide in ways not described on the label can lead to legal consequences. Farmers may face fines or even lose their permits to use chemicals.
- Application Guidelines: The label provides detailed information on how, when, and where to apply the herbicide for maximum efficacy and minimum environmental impact. Misapplication can not only lead to poor outcomes but also trigger resistance in target weed species.
- Safety Precautions: Herbicide labels contain important safety information for humans and wildlife. This includes personal protective equipment (PPE) suggestions to minimize exposure and detailed steps to take in case of an accident.
- Environmental Protection: Compliance with label instructions helps prevent unintended damage to non-target species, including beneficial insects and nearby crops. Herbicides can drift or leach into waterways if misapplied, leading to regulations being tightened in the future.
Label compliance is not just a guideline; itās the law that farmers must respect to maintain both safety and agricultural integrity.
Alternatives to Marestail Herbicide
The search for alternatives to marestail herbicide is critical in todayās agricultural landscape. As farmers grapple with resistance issues and environmental concerns, exploring diverse methods for weed management becomes imperative. Relying solely on chemical solutions can lead to diminishing returns; therefore, integrating cultural practices and biological control methods often provides a more balanced approach to the challenge. Below, we delve into various alternatives that not only mitigate the dependence on herbicides but also contribute to sustainable farming practices.
Cultural Practices
Cultural practices play a significant role in reducing weed populations, including marestail. By modifying farming techniques, growers can create conditions that are less favorable for weed establishment and growth. Here are some notable cultural strategies:
- Crop Rotation: Changing the types of crops grown in a particular area can disrupt weed life cycles. For instance, alternating between deep-rooted and shallow-rooted plants can confuse marestail and reduce its prevalence.
- Cover Crops: Utilizing cover crops like rye or clover during the off-season can suppress weed growth by providing ground cover and enhancing soil health. The roots of these plants may anchor the soil and limit marestail's growth, leading to better weed management.
- Proper Seeding Rates: Adjusting planting density can also help. When crops are planted at optimal densities, they can outgrow and outcompete weeds like marestail for resources, particularly sunlight and nutrients.
Incorporating these cultural practices not only benefits weed management but also improves soil health, biodiversity, and overall crop resilience, making it a win-win for farmers.
Biological Control Methods
Biological control methods offer another effective strategy for managing marestail. This approach harnesses natural predators or pathogens to reduce weed populations, providing an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional herbicide use. Some prominent biological control strategies include:
- Insects and Herbivores: Certain insects and herbivorous animals can feed on marestail, significantly reducing their numbers. For example, specific beetle species have shown promise in targeting marestail plants, effectively curbing their growth through natural predation.
- Fungal Pathogens: There are fungi such as Sclerotinia sclerotiorum that can infect and weaken marestail plants. Introducing these pathogens in a controlled manner may reduce reliance on chemical treatments and provide a long-term solution.
- Targeted Grafting: This method encourages the natural enemies of marestail to establish in a given area. By planting companion crops that attract specific insects, farmers can enhance biological control efforts.
Adopting these biological control methods requires careful planning and knowledge of local ecosystems, but they can lead to robust, sustainable solutions without the environmental impact often associated with chemical herbicides.
"Effective weed management is not just about eradication; it's about fostering an ecosystem where crops can thrive alongside reduced weed competition."
In summary, pursuing alternatives such as cultural practices and biological control methods not only addresses the immediate challenges posed by marestail but also aligns with broader environmental goals. By diversifying strategies, farmers can cultivate resilience against weeds while enhancing their agricultural practices.
Integrated Weed Management
Integrated Weed Management (IWM) is a crucial approach in contemporary agricultural practices, merging various strategies to control weed populations effectively. This holistic method reflects an understanding that relying solely on herbicides, like marestail herbicide, can lead to resistance issues and ecological concerns. By combining different weed management techniques, farmers can take a more sustainable route, ensuring healthier crops and avoiding the pitfalls of conventional methods.
Role of Marestail Herbicide in IWM
Marestail herbicide plays a pivotal role in an IWM framework. Itās not just about spraying herbicides and calling it a day; it's about strategically integrating this tool into a broader management plan. Here are some points to consider:
- Effective Control: Marestail herbicide effectively targets the marestail weed, known for its resistance to various herbicides. This effectiveness can keep marestail populations in check, preventing them from outgrowing other vegetation.
- Timing and Application: The timing of application is crucial in IWM. Farmers can maximize the herbicide's impact by applying it at specific growth stages of the weed, thus reducing its competitive edge over crops.
- Reduction of Herbicide Resistance: Utilizing marestail herbicide in conjunction with cultural practices or other control methods minimizes the risk of resistance developing within weed populations. This preventive strategy is necessary for long-term weed management success.
Incorporating marestail herbicide into an IWM strategy not only tackles immediate weed issues but also contributes to a more sustainable agricultural future.
Combining Methods for Effectiveness
To optimize weed management, combining marestail herbicide with other practices is essential. Hereās how various methods complement each other:
- Cultural Practices: Strategies like crop rotation and cover cropping can greatly assist in managing weed populations. By introducing diverse crops, farmers disrupt the lifecycle of marestail and reduce its dominance.
- Mechanical Control: Incorporating practices such as tilling or mechanical weeding can support herbicide application. This not only reduces the weed seed bank but can also ensure that the herbicide is applied more effectively.
- Biological Control: Exploring options like beneficial insects or fungi that target specific weed species can integrate seamlessly with herbicide use. By creating a multi-faceted approach, farmers enhance the overall effectiveness of their weed management strategies.
- Monitoring and Assessment: Regular scouting and assessment help in tracking weed growth and herbicide effectiveness. This information allows for timely adjustments to the management plan, ensuring all methods work in harmony.
In summary, combining marestail herbicide with diverse strategies offers a robust framework for integrated weed management, promoting both productivity and sustainability in agricultural practices.
"Integrated Weed Management features a blend of methods that not only targets the weed problem but does so sustainably, creating a balance between crops and weeds."
Incorporating all these practices ensures that farmers can mitigate weed threats while safeguarding the environment and supporting healthy crop growth.
Epilogue
Summary of Key Points
Throughout this article, we navigated through essential aspects of marestail herbicide:
- Definition and Importance: Marestail is a challenging weed, and the herbicide plays a critical role in management strategies. Without such tools, crops can suffer undesirable competition.
- Chemical Composition: The active ingredients that make marestail herbicide effective were explored, shedding light on various formulation types available.
- Application Techniques: Best practices for application were discussed, emphasizing the need for careful timing and frequency.
- Efficacy and Resistance: We evaluated the herbicide's effectiveness through field studies while addressing growing concerns of resistance.
- Environmental Impact: This section brought awareness to potential negative implications on non-target species and soil health, crucial topics in sustainable farming.
- Regulatory Considerations: Understanding the approval and registration processes ensures compliance and safety in using these products.
- Alternatives and IWM: The exploration of cultural practices and biological methods showcases the variety of strategies available to manage weeds effectively.
Future Directions in Research
Looking ahead, researching marestail herbicide should prioritize several areas:
- Resistance Management: Studies ought to continue focusing on alternative modes of action to combat herbicide resistance effectively. Finding innovative solutions can help maintain the efficacy of marestail herbicide over time.
- Integrated Approaches: There's a growing need for research that combines marestail herbicide with cultural and biological methods within Integrated Weed Management (IWM) frameworks. Such interdisciplinary strategies may offer more sustainable solutions.
- Ecological Impact Studies: Ongoing evaluation of the environmental impact, especially concerning non-target species and soil health, can provide insights that enhance ecosystem safety.
- Technological Advancements: Embrace the role of technology in herbicide applications, like precision agriculture techniques. This can optimize usage and reduce collateral damage in crop fields.
- Alternative Compounds: Future research may explore new formulations or natural alternatives that could be effective against marestail, addressing both efficacy and environmental safety concerns.
With these considerations in mind, it is evident that marestail herbicide remains a focal point in weed management discussions. By acknowledging its role and exploring future directions, stakeholders in agriculture can be better prepared to tackle the challenges posed by marestail and similar weeds.
Key Benefits of Including References:
- Credibility: Establishes the reliability of the information.
- Further Exploration: Lets interested readers explore topics in more depth.
- Awareness of Ongoing Research: Highlights current trends and innovations.
Readers are encouraged to consult further resources such as Wikipedia, authoritative agricultural boards, and professional farming publications for more detailed discussions on herbicides and their management.
To gain insight into the lively discussions about herbicides, forums like reddit.com offer perspectives from both experienced farmers and novice enthusiasts.
"The right information can make the difference between a successful harvest and a field overtaken by weeds. Stay informed!"
Citations and Further Reading
For those interested in honing their knowledge on marestail herbicide and related practices, the following sources are invaluable:
- Journal of Agricultural Research ā Articles on the efficacy of herbicides in various crops.
- Pesticide Safety Education Program ā Offers guidelines on herbicide application and safety.
- AgWeb and Farm Journal ā Industry insights, trends, and community discussions.
- University Extension Services ā Research papers and educational resources on weed management.
These resources will help solidify your understanding and keep you abreast of innovation and agricultural best practices. The journey of learning doesnāt end with this article; itās merely the beginning.