This summer Weed Science Society of America (WSSA) affiliates in the North Central and Southern regions gave nearly 100 students from 18 universities a chance to test their weed science know-how. Both organizations sponsored hard-fought competitions featuring multiple challenges – from identifying weeds at varying stages of growth to troubleshooting weed control issues faced by farmers in the field.

“For many students, the contests culminated months or even years of study,” says WSSA board member Delaney Foster, a graduate research assistant at The University of Tennessee and a winner in the Southern Weed Science Society contest. “Participants get hands-on experience in many of the practical aspects of weed science, including an opportunity to practice problem-solving skills that will benefit them as they enter the workforce.”

UW–Madison students participated in the North Central Weed Science Society contest, and were among the winners in the competitions listed below. The contest was hosted by North Dakota State University in Fargo. Sixty-one graduate and undergraduate students from 10 universities participated.

Top team performance, graduate
Third place winner: UW–Madison

Individual contests, solo performers, graduate
“Farmer Problem” category winner: Lindsay Malone, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Individual contests, solo performers, undergraduate
“Calibration” category winner: Matt Humbert, University of Wisconsin-Madison

The Weed Science Society of America, a nonprofit scientific society, was founded in 1956 to encourage and promote the development of knowledge concerning weeds and their impact on the environment. The Society promotes research, education and extension outreach activities related to weeds, provides science-based information to the public and policy makers, fosters awareness of weeds and their impact on managed and natural ecosystems, and promotes cooperation among weed science organizations across the nation and around the world.  For more information, visit www.wssa.net.