PLSC 453/653 – Advanced Weed Science

Department of Plant Sciences, NDSU

 

Instructor:

Dr. Kirk Howatt

470-F Loftsgard Hall

 

office hours: 8-12 TR

phone: 1-7209

e-mail: kirk.howatt@ndsu.edu

 

 

Course Description

 

PLSC 453/653 builds on information learned in PLSC 323, Principles of Weed Science.  PLSC 453/653 will examine options for controlling weeds in an integrated control program and explore the influence of biotic and abiotic factors when developing a weed management strategy.  Herbicide resistance in crops and weeds will be discussed as well as interactions among chemicals and adjuvants that influence efficacy.  Courses in chemistry or biochemistry are not required prerequisites but are helpful.

 

Course Objectives

 

  1. To increase understanding of weed control options and the integration of options into a weed management strategy.

 

  1. To increase understanding of weed/crop relationships, identifying factors that may be exploited in weed control programs.

 

  1. To increase understanding of factors affecting weed control, especially with respect to the use of herbicides.

 

  1. To increase understanding of biotic, chemical, mechanical, edaphic, and climatic factors that influence weed control.

 

  1. To encourage group interaction skills and interactive problem solving.

 

Discussion Topics

 

         I.      Introduction

       II.      Characteristics of Weeds

a.      Life Cycles

b.      Dormancy and Germination

c.      Competition

d.      Fecundity and Survival

      III.      Techniques of Weed Management

a.      Preventative

b.      Physical

c.      Cultural

d.      Biological

e.      Chemical

   IV.      Herbicides in the Environment

a.      Soil

b.      Atmosphere

c.      Water

     V.      Herbicide-Resistant Plants

a.      Transgenic Crops

b.      Types of Resistance

c.      Resistance Development

d.      Strategies to Avoid Herbicide Resistance Evolution

   VI.      Factors Affecting Post-emergence Herbicide Efficacy

a.      Characteristics of Spray Mixture

b.      Characteristics of the Leaf Surface

c.      Adjuvants

  VII.      Reduced Herbicide Rates

a.      Reasons/Benefits

b.      Increased Management

c.      Risk Assessment

 

 

Instruction Guides:  Class handouts, selected materials, and library research.

 

Lectures:  Loftsgard 102, 12:30 – 1:45 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday

 

Grading Structure

Quizzes (5 Unannounced) 50 points
Homework (Various) 75 points
Group Project  I 50 points
Group Project  II 50 points
Exam I 100 points
Exam II  100 points
Comprehensive Final 200 points (Optional)

Make-up of missed examinations should be scheduled as soon as the conflict is known.  Loss of points for late work is a distinct possibility. 

 

PLSC 453 and PLSC 653 students will be graded separately.  Broader understanding of material will be expected of PLSC 653 students.  PLSC 653 students will be required to complete supplemental activities totaling approximately 150 points.  See additional handout.

Course Grading

 

Expectations will not exceed those provided below.

92% and above         -  A

82% to 92%               -  B

70% to 82%               -  C

60% to 70%               -  D

below 60%                 -  F

 

Students with Disabilities are asked to inform the instructor so that arrangements can be made in cooperation with the Office of Disability Services to provide appropriate services.

 

The Honor Code will be followed in this course.  Examinations are given according to the policies of the Honor System within the College of Agriculture (http://www.ag.ndsu.nodak.edu/colag/honor.htm).  University Guidelines for academic honesty are outlined in NDSU University Senate Policy, Section 335: Code of Academic Responsibility and Conduct (http://www.ndsu.nodak.edu/policy/335.htm).