STRATEGIC PLAN

DEPARTMENT of PLANT SCIENCES

JANUARY, 2004

Ninth Draft

I. ROLE OF THE DEPARTMENT IN NORTH DAKOTA AGRICULTURE

North Dakota ranks first nationally in production of barley, all dry edible beans, pinto bean, navy bean, dry edible pea, flaxseed, sunflower, canola, durum wheat, hard red spring wheat, and oat (North Dakota Agricultural Statistics, 2002). North Dakota ranks second in production of all wheat; ranks third in production of lentils and sugarbeet; and ranks fourth in production of rye and potato. North Dakota ranks fourth in acres of principal crops harvested. Cash receipts from crops accounted for 53% of the total farm income in North Dakota. Government payment for crops constituted 30% of the total farm income, while livestock products accounted for 17% of the total state farm income. Exploring production and utilization of diverse crops offers opportunities for enhanced economic growth both by diversification of production agriculture and by value-added systems developed in North Dakota communities.

The Department of Plant Sciences is the principal North Dakota State University Department for new cultivar and germplasm development, development of improved weed control methodologies, and all aspects of genetic, physiological, and production techniques to increase plant yield, quality, and utilization. The department conducts collaborative efforts with other departments at North Dakota State University; especially the departments of Plant Pathology, Soil Science, and Entomology; and the research and extension centers across North Dakota; thus, improving the overall efficiency of crop improvement and production activities.

Preamble to Strategic Plan:

The Department of Plant Sciences derives its origins from the original charter of the land-grant movement in the United States, codified in the Morrill Act of 1862. The Department of Plant Sciences encompasses teaching, research, and extension based upon the original mandate and partnerships developed over a century of time. The programs rely on the fundamental resources of people, facilities, and financial support.

People:

The Department of Plant Sciences had 6.95 full time equivalent (FTE) faculty assigned to teaching, 24.15 FTE faculty assigned to research, and 7.0 FTE faculty assigned to extension in 2003. In addition, the department had 48 professional classified staff; 12 technical staff positions; 10 clerical staff to support teaching, research, and extension activities; and approximately 70 graduate students. The department has established formalized adjunct appointments with two scientists at NDSU research and extension centers and 17 scientists with the USDA-ARS. The department has 15 professors, 7 associate professors, 13 assistant professors, and 3 non-tenure positions. Ten of the individuals in these 38 positions will be 65 years of age or older within the next five years. Of the 34 Plant Sciences faculty listed in the last strategic plan in 1997, 15 are no longer with the Department of Plant Sciences in 2003 due to retirements and resignations. A similar rate of turnover would be expected in the next five years with retirements and average attrition among younger faculty. The high turnover rate hinders continuity on projects but also provides opportunity for modifying program emphasis.

Facilities:

The Department of Plant Sciences occupies approximately 125,000 square feet of building space on the NDSU campus (office, laboratory, greenhouse, and field research support space). Approximately 1,000 acres of land at several locations are dedicated to use by the programs and people assigned to the department. The quality of space and land is comparable to that found at other land-grant universities.

Support:

The salaries and fringe benefits for the faculty, staff, and graduate students positions in the Department of Plant Sciences are supported by both appropriated and soft money. Appropriated money supports 62 positions, soft money supports 71 positions, and 11 positions are supported partly by appropriated and partly by soft money. In addition, numerous undergraduate students and others are employed part-time in the department on soft money. As shown in the following table, soft money makes up 70% of the total expenditures in the Department of Plant Sciences.

Plant Science Department Expenditures, July 1, 2001 through June 30, 2002.
I. Appropriated
A. Salary and fringe benefits for faculty and staff	$3,901,600
B. Salary and fringe benefits for graduate students, part time employees, and staff overtime	$477,000
Total salaries and fringe benefits	$4,378,600
C. General operating	$249,000
D. Designated operating (one-time expenditures) Four new research start-ups Four new teaching start-ups Extension equipment Budget enhancements Plot combine	68,000 12,000 8,800 77,200 55,000
Total appropriated operating money for teaching, research, and extension	$470,800
Total appropriated money	$4,849,400

II. Soft Money	Salary	Operating
A. Grants
1. Federal 2. Non-federal	$2,915,800 343,300	$1,506,300 217,200
B. Gifts and royalties	231,600	184,900
C. Commodity support	2,443,700	1,378,100
D. Other (faculty overload, hourly labor, and in-and-out money from meetings with fees.)	164,200	246,000
Total soft money	$6,098,600	$3,532,500
Total Plant Sciences expenditures, hard and soft money		$14,480,500

II. VISION STATEMENT FOR PLANT SCIENCES

The Department of Plant Sciences will educate and inspire national and international students at both the undergraduate and graduate level. Students will receive outstanding education in the areas of plant breeding and genetics, weed science, biotechnology, crop production and physiology, cereal chemistry and technology, turf management, and horticulture and forestry. Undergraduate and graduate students will be taught the knowledge, skills, values, and understanding critical for professional success in a changing global economy.

Production problems and environmental concerns in the rapidly changing North Dakota agricultural and urban communities will be addressed by the department. Crop production is the cornerstone of the North Dakota farm economy, generating 83% of the North Dakota gross farm income (2000 data for cash receipts plus government payments). While production techniques will change, the state's emphasis on crop production will be maintained. Research will ensure that suitable end-product quality will be maintained to maintain and improve competitiveness in national and international markets. Results from applied research will solve immediate problems in production and environmental management and quality/utilization. An active extension program will rapidly disseminate research results and other useful information to the end users of the information. Knowledge gained from basic research will provide needed answers for future successes in applied research, thereby strengthening the state's economy now and in the future. The talented, well-trained, and diversified faculty in the Department of Plant Sciences are working to meet these challenges. Strong linkages have been established with commodity groups and processors of raw products. These linkages will be maintained and additional collaborative opportunities are being developed. Partnerships among disciplines and universities in both the North Dakota University System (NDUS) and the region, and maintaining strong collaborative linkages with USDA personnel located in the region, will enhance the economy in the northern Great Plains, the knowledge base of plant science, and the education of our students. The department's excellent relationships with research and extension center personnel throughout the state will continue, facilitating valuable research and dissemination of information to department clientele.

III. MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Department of Plant Sciences is to: a) teach traditional and innovative concepts and techniques in the disciplines of plant breeding and genetics, weed science, turf management, horticulture and forestry, plant physiology, crop quality and utilization, and crop production and management; b) perform basic and applied research to advance the field of plant sciences; and c) provide information to the public in multiple formats.

GENERAL OBJECTIVES AS RELATED TO THE MISSION OF THE DEPARTMENT

A. Teaching

1. Educate undergraduate students so they can: a) identify common and unique problems related to the science of plant production and utilization and propose remedial action; b) demonstrate critical thinking, teaching, and communication skills in plant sciences; and c) evaluate the relationship of scientific principles and public policy.

2. Educate graduate students so they can: a) plan and conduct experiments, collect and analyze data, and summarize and interpret research results; b) develop an advanced level of critical thinking and communication skills in specific area(s) of plant sciences; and c) independently identify research areas in the field of plant sciences, utilize or develop appropriate research methodology, and accurately summarize and report results of their research.

B. Extension

1. Provide crop and livestock producers, commodity groups, and agribusiness with research-based information on crop production to help increase their knowledge and skills, and achieve greater profitability, competitiveness, and environmentally sound crop production practices. Work in close cooperation with the state and county North Dakota Crop Improvement and Seed Association and the State Seed Department to provide information and education concerning newly released and adapted cultivars on a statewide basis.

2. Provide crop producers, government agencies, and agribusiness with research-based technical information on the economic control and management of weeds. The coordination and training of certified commercial and private pesticide applicators will be carried out on a statewide basis.

3. Provide information and research-based educational programs to individuals, agencies, and businesses on horticultural topics, such as home and commercial vegetable production, growing and management of ornamental and woody plants, turf management, nursery stock, and tree care. Provide information on the management and benefits of windbreaks, urban forests, and native woodlands to landowners, government agencies, and youth.

4. Deliver information in multiple ways to maximize clientele opportunities for obtaining needed information. Common information dissemination methods include extension meetings, field demonstrations, mass media, extension publications, professional publications, professional meetings, research plot tours, e-mail, telephone, letters, and one-on-one contacts.

C. Research

1. Develop, using traditional breeding and new methodologies, superior cultivars of adapted plants important to the economy and beautification of North Dakota. Conduct basic research at both the whole plant and molecular level to expand knowledge of the structure and function of genetic resources, gene manipulation, and gene transfer among species. Develop and evaluate new techniques for application in applied and basic research programs.

2. Develop cost-effective strategies for annual and perennial weed control in crops, pasture and rangeland, lawns and turf, and gardens with emphasis on biological controls and other methods to minimize herbicide use. Study the basic biology of North Dakota's most troublesome weeds to help identify specific control strategies.

3. Develop and evaluate production practices for North Dakota crops, including traditional, minor, organic, and alternative crops. Determine the adaptability of new crops to the environment of North Dakota.

4. Improve the quality of cereal grains and of end-use products from cereal grains.

IV. DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATION AND PRIORITIES

A. Assistant Department Chair

The importance of excellent public relations and promotion of successful projects was emphasized in a 2002 federal review of weed science projects that receive federal funding. Efforts to expand legislator, commodity group, and public awareness of Department of Plant Sciences programs and successes should be increased. As research dollars from traditional sources become less and less available, soliciting support from all possible sources becomes more important. An improved departmental image with clientele, lawmakers, news media, and funding agencies will increase access to funding opportunities and chances of funding success.

The Department of Plant Sciences is a very large department and the size may become even larger if faculty from other departments continue to be added and if the faculty are successful in recruiting and funding a larger number of graduate students. The chair receives input and assistance from faculty on many issues and several standing committees have been formed to address various issues. While faculty assistance to the chair is important and necessary, the chair often needs an assistant to help manage the large Department of Plant Sciences.

An assistant department chair position is proposed. The assistant department chair would have responsibility for public relations, student recruitment, promotion of the department, and would assume some of the responsibilities of the chair as needed.

B. Technical Support Staff

Access to consistent, skilled, and reliable help is important to the success of all projects and all faculty in the Department of Plant Sciences regardless whether the faculty member has a primary appointment in research, teaching, or extension. All faculty are expected to conduct research and publish papers in refereed journals. Faculty with a lesser research appointment would not be expected to publish as much as faculty with a greater research appointment, but faculty with a lesser research appointment still make full use of technical assistance through preparation of educational materials, assistance with teaching and extension activities, by increasing the extent of research activities. New faculty especially need technical assistance as they work towards becoming established and achieving tenure.

Funds for conducting research, teaching, and extension activities are limited and the problem of restricted funding appears to be worsening. Labor can be substituted for funding to some extent so availability of technical assistance increases the productivity and success of all projects. In 2003, hard money supported 22 technical support staff, soft money supported 28 technical support staff, and support for nine was split between hard and soft money. Four faculty had no technician and two shared a technician with another project. Twelve faculty do not have hard money supported technical assistance.

Technical support positions should be added for faculty without technicians. Additional hard money to support technicians should be requested. A special need is appropriated money to support technicians and provide continuity in periods of time between the ending of one grant and the beginning of another.

C. Graduate Students

Fifty-eight graduate student stipends in the Department of Plant Sciences were funded by soft money, four students were funded by appropriated money, one student had a Fulbright Scholarship, four students were self-funded, and seven students were part-time self-funded in 2003. North Dakota State University is actively encouraging increased numbers of Ph.D. candidates throughout the university. The primary limitation on adding more graduate students in the Department of Plant Sciences is the lack of funding for graduate student stipends. Increased hard money support for graduate student stipends would result in increased graduate student numbers and more useful research that would benefit clientele of NDSU.

V. MAJOR DEPARTMENTAL PROGRAMS

A. Teaching Programs

Plant Sciences Teaching Faculty

Name	Teaching Appointment	Area
Berzonsky, William Cai, Xiwen Carena, Marcelo Chakraborty, Monisha Christoffers, Michael Dai, Wenhao Deckard, Edward Elias, Elias Franckowiak, Jerome Hammond, James Hatterman-Valenti, Harlene Helms, Theodore Herman, Dale Horsley, Richard Howatt, Kirk Johnson, Burton Kegode, George Kianian, Shahryar Lee, Chiwon Li, Deying Lym, Rodney Manthey, Frank	10% 40% 6% 15% 40% 15% 49% 5% 5% 5% 10% 5% 35% 10% 10% 10% 10% 20% 80% 80% 5% 15%	Breeding/Genetics Genetics Plant Breeding/Genetics Cereal Chemistry Genetics Micropropagation Introductory and Cropping Systems Plant Breeding Breeding/Cytogenetics Experimental Design Herbaceous Landscape Plants Plant Genetics Woody Landscape Plans Experimental Design Weed Sciences Crop Production Weed Ecology Plant Genetics/Cytogenetics Horticultural Crops Turfgrass Weed Science Cereal Chemistry
McClean, Phillip McMullen, Michael Mergoum, Mohamed Messersmith, Calvin Meyer, Dwain Schneiter, Albert Schwartz, Paul Smith, Ronald Thompson, Asunta Williams, M. Dale Zeleznik, Joseph	45% 5% 5% 70% 25% 25% 10% 10% 10% 5% 5%	Plant Molecular Genetics Breeding/Genetics and Grain Grading Breeding/Genetics Introductory and Weed Science Forage Management and Sugarbeet Prod. Administration Cereal Chemistry Turfgrass Horticultural Food Crops and Potato Prod. Seed Technology Forestry

1. Undergraduate Teaching and Learning

Science knowledge is increasing rapidly in a changing world of agriculture, especially in areas of genetics, technology, and science applications. During much of the 1900s, our major task in Plant Sciences was to obtain data to confirm classical theories and apply those theories to improving the production of quality crops. Presently, tools such as microarray technology and data mining have resulted in a large increase in scientific information, with no apparent limit in sight for changes in scientific knowledge or its application.

Plant Sciences has always been an evolving discipline, but this explosion of scientific knowledge requires adjustments in the undergraduate program. It is more important than ever, that students learn "how to learn", "how to think critically", and "how to transfer their knowledge to new complex problems". At the same time, the students need to learn and retain the presently known important facts, so they have a strong knowledge base with which they can think critically and utilize the new knowledge.

A requirement for improving teaching and learning in plant sciences is an assessment program that monitors improvement and progress. The assessment tools must evaluate our students' literacy in plant sciences, but they also must assess our success in linking that literacy to their overall education. Obviously, a great challenge faces us, but we are encouraged by the present quality of our graduates as measured by positive feedback from employers and graduates and the high percentage of recent graduates who receive excellent career offers or achieve high success in graduate studies.

a. Plant Sciences Teaching, Learning, and Curriculum

Modifications of the curriculum have occurred in the past several years to improve the education of Plant Sciences students relative to learning the basic knowledge of the discipline; being problem-solvers, critical thinkers, and communicators; and becoming effective evaluators of the relationships of scientific principles and public policy. In addition, several courses have been transformed in ways that increase cooperative learning, use problem-based learning approaches, and improve student engagement. Assessments at the course level show that the various purposes of these modifications and transformations have been reached. The Plant Sciences courses transformed to improve student engagement have generally ranked high for student engagement scores compared to other courses at NDSU and nationally.

Although a survey several years ago indicated that alumni were highly satisfied with the knowledge and instruction in the Plant Sciences majors, recent assessments or surveys have not been conducted. Assessments of the overall curriculum have not been conducted either, although opportunities are designed

each year for upperclassmen to meet with Plant Sciences teachers to discuss curriculum issues. Plant Sciences undergraduate and graduate students also influence curriculum decisions through a voting member on the Plant Sciences curriculum committee.

b. Plant Sciences Faculty and Faculty Development

Several faculty are involved in undergraduate education. Although several teachers with significant college teaching appointments are senior faculty at NDSU, several are early- or mid-career faculty. Seven Plant Sciences faculty have been selected as "Fellows" for the Faculty Institute for Excellence in Learning (FIEL). The "Fellows" and other teaching faculty have participated/presented at university-wide workshops and sessions. In addition, Plant Sciences faculty have played significant roles in NDSU teaching and learning programs/committees, such as Curriculum, Honors Program, International Studies, Studies Abroad, Peer Review, and Bush Foundation grants.

The Department of Plant Sciences has provided several opportunities for faculty development to supplement existing university and faculty opportunities. For the past three years, each class has been scheduled for peer review (one visit) by two Plant Sciences faculty from a pool of seven who have received peer review training. In 2002, the process was modified so one faculty visited the class, but two or three visits will be planned for each course. Priority is given to those faculty working toward promotion and tenure and those wanting their course to be peer reviewed. The Plant Sciences Teaching Circle, in its eighth year, meets for one hour approximately every other week during the academic year and involves teachers from five colleges. Topics designed to improve teaching skills are presented and discussed in each meeting.

c. Student Numbers and Employment Outlook

The number of horticulture undergraduates has remained steady (about 45) for the past several years. However, the number of Crop and Weed Science (CWS) undergraduates, which peaked during the 1998-1999 and 1999-2000 school years at 110 students, has declined to 66 students in 2003. Employment opportunities for both CWS and Horticulture graduates have remained strong, and salary/benefit packages have improved significantly.

A turfgrass major (B.S.) in Plant Sciences was recently approved. This new major is expected to bring new students into the department, although it may also draw some students from the Horticulture major. A recently formed committee is examining ways to stabilize or reverse the trend toward fewer CWS majors. Stabilizing or increasing the number of CWS majors would mean that more and more students without a farm background would choose CWS, as the number of high school students with a farm background is declining steadily. This change in student backgrounds would require some modifications in the curriculum.

d. Education of Non-Agricultural Students

As the number of students with farm backgrounds decrease, greater numbers of non-agricultural students will play a role in forming policies that affect the production, management, and utilization of agronomic and horticultural crops. Thus, the department must enrich the education of these majors. The Plant Sciences Department is responsible for teaching genetics to the university student community. Plant Sciences 110, 111, 315, and 315L are currently approved as general education courses in the science and technology category. Plant Sciences 110 also is approved for the global perspectives category. In addition, Plant Sciences faculty are involved in the teaching of two interdisciplinary courses used in the University Honors Program. Involvement in these interdisciplinary courses is an excellent opportunity for faculty development, for reaching non-agriculture students, and for integrating agriculture with non-agriculture disciplines.

Action Plan and Implementation

The Plant Sciences Curriculum Committee will direct or delegate the achievement of the Strategic Plan components listed below.

• Transform more courses to learner-centered environments with increased focus on the student: Allows teachers to teach in the way that the discipline is practiced at its best, and to work with the preexisting understandings that students bring with them to the classroom.

• Continue to explore and implement new teaching methodologies and tools to maximize the educational opportunities of students: Multiple methodologies and tools provide the best environment for a classroom of students with different learning styles.

• Transform more courses to knowledge-centered environments: The rapidly increasing knowledge base means that we must not succumb to superficial coverage of all topics, but provide in-depth coverage of certain topics, which uses the strengths of a research university and teaches toward understanding.

• Develop non-class learning experiences: Many of the university learning experiences occur outside of the classroom. These experiences are most effective if designed. Possibilities include service learning projects, organization experiences, study abroad, undergraduate research projects, and competitions.

• Develop and deliver a Plant Science Certificate Program via distance education: This will allow participants throughout the state or region to enhance their knowledge of plant science without leaving their home or community.

• Evaluate and use various recruitment/retention tools in order to increase the number of undergraduate majors in all programs in Plant Sciences: The decreasing number of CWS majors and the new turfgrass major emphasizes the importance of an active recruitment and retention process. Potential tools are presently under discussion by a committee of CWS faculty.

• Continue to develop and use effectively the various experiences of the teaching faculty: The present teaching faculty ranges from early- to late-career individuals. Leadership for various teaching activities is spread among individuals at all levels, which is required for short-and long-term health of the Plant Sciences teaching programs. This appropriate development and use of faculty strengths needs to be continually assessed and modified as necessary. Timing: Current and ongoing.

• Continue to integrate agricultural disciplines in interdisciplinary courses: Interdisciplinary courses provide opportunities for faculty development, reaching non-majors, and student recruitment.

• Survey our present students, the alumni, and their employers to assist in developing appropriate curriculum outcomes and refining the curriculum to meet the outcomes: Although a survey several years ago and recent anecdotal evidence have shown high satisfaction, rapid changes in the discipline means that this type of assessment should be done on a regular basis.

• Assess student education in all Plant Science majors: Assessment of achieving curriculum outcomes is necessary to improve the curriculum of each major.

• Increase the number of courses approved as general education courses for the university community: General education designation will provide more diverse students, help reach non-agricultural students, and maintain numbers of students in the classroom.

2. Graduate Teaching and Learning

The rapid changes in science and technology have impacted graduate teaching similarly to undergraduate teaching. However, the impact is somewhat different because graduate programs are more narrowly focused and more research based.

The department offers M.S. programs (both thesis and comprehensive study options) with a major in Plant Sciences, Horticulture, or Cereal Science. A Ph.D. degree is offered with a major in Plant Sciences or Cereal Science. Students can enter the Ph.D. program directly from completing the B.S. degree requirements or via the M.S. degree. To date, all Ph.D. candidates have completed an M.S. degree. Currently, all full-time graduate students have a research assistantship or fellowship.

Enrollments in the combined Plant Sciences graduate programs were as low as 28 in the late 1990s, but have recovered to the recent number of about 70 full-time, active students. About 40% of the graduate students are Ph.D. candidates, and about 55% are from countries other than the USA. The goal of NDSU to become a Research I institution emphasizes the recruitment of Ph.D. candidates.

Action Plan and Implementation

The Plant Sciences Graduate Studies Committee will direct or delegate the achievement of the strategic plan components listed below.

• Continue to actively recruit highly qualified graduate students: The strength of the program is largely dependent on highly qualified students. Although letters, web-based materials, and national meeting participation will continue to be used, many recruitment successes have come from individual contacts.

• Emphasize global relevance of course content: Many of the Plant Sciences graduate students come from other countries and as many of our graduates spend an increasing portion of their careers in global communities, it is now even more important that teachers demonstrate how course materials have global relevance and application.

• Encourage broad course backgrounds: The present culture of rapid changes in science and technology requires that we emphasize education, not training, of graduate students.

• Integrate Cereal Science curriculum into the present Plant Sciences graduate program. Revision of Cereal Science courses should reflect the more diverse backgrounds of Plant Sciences graduate students as compared to Cereal Sciences graduate students. Aspects of plant biochemistry, physiology, and genetics should be incorporated into courses that address post-harvest quality and processing.

• Survey our present students, the alumni, and their employers to assist in developing appropriate curriculum outcomes and refining the curriculum to meet the outcomes: Although anecdotal evidences have shown high satisfaction with the curriculum, rapid changes in the discipline means that this type of assessment should be done on a regular basis.

• Assess student education in all Plant Sciences graduate programs: Assessing the achievement of curriculum outcomes is necessary to improve the curriculum of each program.

• Consider the development of a Plant Sciences M.S. program via distance education: Development of such a program will allow participants throughout the region or beyond to become part of the Plant Sciences learning community without physically moving to the NDSU community.

• Develop a plan for assuring that our graduate students receive a current science-based education: The rapid changes in science and technology provides a challenge that must be met if we are to educate graduate students who will help solve complex future problems.

B. Extension Programs

Extension specialists in the Department of Plant Sciences have the responsibility to transfer research-based knowledge to all clientele including, but not limited to, other Extension faculty, agricultural producers, crop consultants and agriculturists, crop commodity groups, multinational corporations, local elevators and seed and chemical dealers, homeowners, nurseries, and public agencies. Extension specialists should develop research-based knowledge and utilize information from scientific literature, agricultural experiment stations, the USDA-ARS, allied industry, and other Extension specialists. Both in-state and out-of-state sources should be utilized.

Plant Sciences Extension Faculty

Name	Extension Appointment	Area
Berglund, Duane Dexter, Alan Herman, Dale Meyer, Dwain Ransom, Joel	100% 90% 15% 10% 100%	Oil seed, Pulse, and Specialty Crops Weed Control and Sugarbeet Production Woody Plants and Ornamentals Forages Cereal Grains including Corn
Schneiter, Albert Smith, Ron Zeleznik, Joseph Zollinger, Richard	10% 90% 95% 90%	Administration Horticulture Urban/Rural Forestry Weed Science

1. Change in Expectations

The topics that fall under the Department of Plant Sciences are well covered by the extension appointments in the department. Expectations of faculty with primarily extension appointments have been changing over the past several years. Extension faculty in tenure-track positions now are expected to conduct applied research and publish papers in refereed journals in addition to conducting extension activities. Some extension faculty do not have technicians, equipment, or funds to facilitate the research. Conducting research reduces the emphasis that can be placed in extension activities. Adding technicians with a B.S. or M.S. degree to support extension specialists would greatly enhance both research opportunities and extension program opportunities in the Department of Plant Sciences. Technical assistance and start-up funds for projects would improve the prospects for new extension faculty to qualify for promotion and tenure and would expand research and educational program effort at a much lower cost than hiring more extension specialists. State support for technical assistance for extension specialists would be ideal and should be requested from the legislature.

2. Change in Funding Opportunities

Extension specialists typically conduct applied research. Grant opportunities for applied research are declining as mergers of chemical and seed companies reduce the potential number of private grant providers. Government-funded granting agencies generally are not interested in funding applied research. Extension specialists that have supported technicians and graduate students on grant funds in the past may not be able to continue support in the future.

Increased collaboration with private industry need to be explored. Extension specialists should make requests for funding from all appropriate funding resources even if that results in competition between extension faculty and faculty with primarily research appointments.

3. Increased Cost of Operations

The cost of travel and other expenses to deliver extension programs is steadily increasing. Methods that reduce program delivery expenses should be used more frequently. Travel expenses should be reduced by augmenting program delivery through video conferencing, use of the internet to allow people to watch a program at their convenience, or distributing programs on CD-ROM disks. State extension specialists are more frequently being asked to conduct more "train the trainer" activities with county extension faculty, private industry, and other government agencies. Extension specialists are spending more time on large event programs. The result is that specialists must continue to work at becoming more efficient in program delivery. Extension specialists must develop methods to assist county and area faculty to deliver high-quality programs with a minimum of time input by the county and area faculty.

4. Change in Clientele

Off-farm employment is expected to increase as the off-farm income will be needed by many producers to allow them to remain on the farm. This suggests that extension needs to develop alternative delivery systems for information. Many farmers may not be able to attend meetings due to job conflicts during the day and family responsibilities in the evening.

5. Shift in Interest among Topics

Interest in urban ornaments and turfgrass management is growing. The Pesticide Program certified 50 applicators in 2001 for ornamentals and turf. In 2002, 350 applicators were certified. Extension emphasis in the general area of ornamentals and turfgrass will need to be expanded.

Crop rotations and acreages will change as market demands and government support programs change. Any sudden change in the support program for any North Dakota crop could result in dramatic changes in acreages and rotations. Extension must remain flexible and able to respond to unanticipated problems and educational needs within the framework of long-term planning. Flexibility can be enhanced by continuing to encourage and provide continuing education opportunities to broaden the capabilities of extension specialists in the Plant Sciences section.

Organic production of crops has been increasing rapidly and is expected to continue to increase over the next five years. Research and extension activities to support organic crop production have been limited in the past but should be expanded in the future. Funding is limited for support of research and extension activities on organic crop production. Organic producer organizations should be approached about the establishment of a checkoff to support research and extension activities.

Action Plan

• The top priority in extension is the addition of technicians with a B.S. or M.S. degree to support extension specialists.

• Provide new extension faculty with project start-up funding.

• Actively pursue funding for applied research from all appropriate funding sources.

• Use innovative program-delivery systems to reduce travel expenses and increase efficiency.

• Extension faculty must be flexible and ready to react to new or unexpected educational needs such as organic crop production, turfgrass management, or weather-related problems.

• Approach organic producer organizations about establishing a checkoff to support research and extension activities.

C. Research Programs

Plant Sciences Research Faculty

Name	Research Appointment	Area
Berzonsky, William Cai, Xiwen Carena, Marcelo Chakraborty, Monisha Christoffers, Michael Dai, Wenhao Deckard, Edward Dexter, Alan Elias, Elias Franckowiak, Jerome Hammond, James Hatterman-Valenti, Harlene Helms, Theodore Herman, Dale Horsley, Richard Howatt, Kirk Johnson, Burton Kegode, George Kianian, Shahryar Lee, Chiwon Li, Deying Lym, Rodney Manthey, Frank McClean, Phillip McMullen, Michael Mergoum, Mohamed Messersmith Calvin Meyer, Dwain Schneiter, Albert	90% 60% 94% 85% 60% 85% 51% 10% 95% 95% 95% 90% 95% 50% 90% 90% 90% 90% 80% 20% 20% 95% 85% 55% 95% 95% 30% 65% 65%	Wheat Breeding Wheat Genetics/Cytology Corn Breeding/Genetics HRS/HWS Wheat Use and Quality Weed Science/Genetics Woody Plants Crop Physiology Weed Science/Sugarbeet Durum Breeding Barley Breeding/Genetics Flax Breeding/Biometrics High Value Crops Soybean Breeding Woody Plants/Ornamentals Barley Breeding Weed Science/Small Grains and Minor Crops Sunflower/New Crops Weed Biology/Ecology and Potato Enhancement HRSW Breeding/Germplasm Enhancement Ornamentals/Turf/Biotechnology Sports Turf Management Perennial Weed Control Durum Wheat Use and Quality Dry Bean Biotechnology Oat Breeding/Genetics HRSWheat Breeding/Genetics Herbicide Application Technology Forage Production Administration/Crop Production

1. Plant Breeding/Genetics and Biotechnology

Present situation:

The Department of Plant Sciences has a strong emphasis in plant breeding research programs for economically important plant species grown in the state. The department is known nationally and internationally for its excellent plant breeding/genetics programs. Twelve plant breeding programs that focus on North Dakota plants are currently housed in the department (HRS wheat-Mergoum, durum wheat-Elias, six-rowed barley-Horsley, two-rowed barley-Franckowiak, flax/crambe-Hammond, oat-McMullen, soybean-Helms, potato-Thompson, corn-Carena, dry edible bean-Vacant, specialty spring wheat-Berzonsky, and woody species-Herman). Other breeding programs study ornamental plants, horticultural crops, and new crops.

Additionally, USDA/ARS scientists located at Fargo, ND, work collaboratively with NDSU scientists and have breeding/genetics programs on sunflower and sugarbeet.

The combination of environmental factors such as soil type, weather, pests, and cultural practices are unique to production areas in North Dakota and requires the organization of breeding programs to deal with production problems while improving crop quality. Expanding scientific knowledge and enhancing the diversity of genetic resources in each crop species make it necessary to develop breeding programs integrating different disciplines and ensure program effectiveness. Cooperative exchanges of information and genetic resources with scientists at other institutes, both nationally and internationally, is vital for continued crop improvement.

Crop production is hampered each year by pathogens such as fungi, bacteria, viruses, and insect pests. Genetic resistance in the host plant is the most cost-effective and environmentally safe means of reducing losses. New sources of genes for pest resistance must constantly be sought because the pathogens and insects mutate and evolve to overcome the host plant resistance. In many cases, resistance genes are available only from unadapted germplasm, such as related species that serve as a large genetic reservoir. Unadapted germplasm often is under-utilized in conventional breeding programs because of the difficulty, time commitments, and expertise necessary to monitor the introgression of these genes. However, new technologies are being used in germplasm enhancement efforts to study the genetics of important genes, identify DNA markers associated with these genes, and accelerate their transfer into adapted germplasm (i.e., tissue culture and doubled haploids). Unadapted germplasm also may be used to correct agronomic and quality deficiencies adapted in cultivated germplasm and increase genetic diversity. The immediate impact of germplasm enhancement efforts on breeding programs is earlier availability of adapted germplasm with desired, specific genes. Such efforts are necessary for the long-term success of breeding programs.

Cytogenetics is the study of the behavior of chromosomes during mitosis and meiosis, their origin, and their relation to the transmission and recombination of genes. Because gene transmission and recombination are essential for success in breeding programs, the field of cytogenetics often is complementary to breeding and germplasm enhancement efforts. Poor chromosome pairing and other symptoms of incompatibility often result from crosses using unadapted germplasm. Knowledge of, and the ability to manipulate, chromosome pairing using genetic stocks facilitates the timely and efficient introgression of beneficial genes. Furthermore, genetic stocks in crops, such as corn, barley, oat, and wheat have been used to locate genes on specific chromosomes and monitor their introgression into adapted germplasm (Berzonsky, Cai, Kianian, and McMullen).

The long-term goal of biotechnology is to provide new methodologies and genetic material that may improve the productivity and value of North Dakota crops. Techniques such as molecular mapping, gene cloning, and tissue culture are being used to investigate quality of malting barley, potato, dry bean, and wheat; compatibility in wheat; disease resistance in barley, dry bean, oat, and wheat; factors affecting herbicide resistance, and improvement of woody landscape plants (Berzonsky, Cai, Christoffers, Dai, Elias, Helms, Horsley, Kianain, McClean, and McMullen).

Multidisciplinary teams in the department need to identify and implement short- and long-term research goals that incorporate breeding and selection strategies with basic biotechnology research taking place in the department. The continued mix of basic and applied research will offer the greatest impact to the state and region.

Research using novel techniques and protocols will provide the basic information that will complement more applied research. Breeding programs, as they develop superior genotypes, must continue to respond to an array of future challenges (e.g., susceptibility to new pathotypes of pathogens and use of traditional and novel techniques to overcome challenges).

A sustained genetic improvement of agronomic/horticultural quality characteristics of plants necessitates a long-term commitment to plant breeding-genetics and biotechnology research. Because of the long time period (10 to 12 years) necessary to develop, test, and initiate the seed increase phases of an improved cultivar, germplasm, or hybrid release that are adapted to the North Dakota environment, continuity of these efforts is essential.

The North Dakota Foundation Seedstocks Project (NDFSP) plays a critical role in the department and is responsible for the increase, maintenance, and distribution of pure seed of new and established crop varieties and inbred lines used in hybridization; coordination of the seedstocks program with NDSU research and extension centers and other agencies in North Dakota, other states, and countries; and developing and evaluating improved systems of seed increase.

Changes in the next 5 years:

Because of the long time period necessary to develop, test, and initiate the seed increase phases of improved cultivar, germplasm, and/or hybrid release that are adapted to the North Dakota environment, continuity of these efforts are essential. The department has responded to new technologies and will plan to continue responding in the next 5 years as justified with existing and emerging technologies. Based on past successes in breeding:

For example, NDSU-released hard red spring wheat (HRSW) cultivars developed during the last 15 years have shown a genetic gain of 1% per year for grain yield. If spring wheat production is valued at $1.0 billion annually, as it is in recent years, the genetic improvement of wheat adds $10 million per year to the state's economy. In 2000, NDSU released 'Alsen', the first HRSW cultivar that has high level of resistance to Fusarium head blight or scab disease. Fusarium head blight has been the major disease for wheat and barley since 1993 causing billions of dollars of losses. In 2003, Alsen was grown on 38% of total HRSW acreage in North Dakota providing tremendous returns/benefits to farmers and industry. Alsen was developed utilizing conventional (non-biotechnology) breeding methods.

No significant changes in the five-year plan were forthcoming from the discussions by the breeding/genetics and biotechnology group. Considerable discussion centered on addition of more wording in the action plan related to biotechnology. The majority of the breeding, genetics, and biotechnology group expressed concern that an increase in biotechnology research at the expense of well-established breeding programs with a historical record of success (see Economic Impact in the 1997 plan) was not in the best interest of North Dakota. The action plan reflects the majority opinion of the discussion.

New additions or replacements of faculty for consideration:

• Replace positions that become vacant. At present the dry bean breeding position should be replaced as the number one priority.

• A potato genetics/germplasm position should be under considerations to support the breeding position.

• With the increase in pulse crops in North Dakota, a breeding/genetics position should be considered.

• The primary effort of the USDA-ARS sunflower projects is with oilseed sunflower. To complement the oilseed program, a confectionary sunflower breeding/genetics position would be desirable.

• The fifth priority would be a host-parasite rust geneticist. Somewhat dependent on the USDA-ARS replacement of the Miller-Williams effort.

• A small-grain germplasm-enhancement position should be considered for the support of several small-grain breeding programs.

• At present no publicly supported breeding/genetics program is in place for canola. With the rapid expansion in acreage this would seem a logical place to expand the breeding/genetics area.

• Support of the HRS wheat breeding program with a position in wheat quality evaluation.

New consideration for hard money funding of breeding/genetics support staff:

• An effort should be made to support all positions with hard funds. Presently, the oat breeding/genetics program, the speciality wheat project, and the soybean project support staff are supported by non hard monies.

• HRS wheat breeding/genetics support. The present program needs to fill a vacant position as a result of resignation several months ago.

• The increased acreage of corn could be better served by the addition of a laboratory support person.
  

Action Plan and Implementation:

• Maintain and/or enhance current programs in plant breeding, genetics, and biotechnology that are vital to the state's economy. Dry bean breeding, potato genetics, oat breeding/genetics, soybean, speciality wheat, and HRS wheat breeding/genetics would be the highest priority items for replacement.

• Evaluating the needs and potential for new and emerging crops is necessary. Consideration should be given to faculty and support staff for pulse crops, confectionary sunflower, and corn laboratory support.

• Enhancement of the NDFSP will help North Dakota farmers remain competitive nationally and internationally.

• Cooperative research programs at the NDSU research and extension centers, USDA-ARS, and private programs are essential to develop crop cultivars adapted to the diverse production areas in the state. These cooperative efforts must be continued and enhanced.

• Expanded and continued support for interdepartmental cooperative research teams is necessary to develop genetic solutions to production problems.

2. Weed Science

The North Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station has a long and prominent history in weed science, dating back to the late 1800s. Weed science projects have made many important contributions to the cost-effective control of weeds and to the basic science of weed control. However, weeds continue to reduce the economic return from crop and rangeland production, reduce aesthetics of infested areas, and cause detrimental effects on human and animal health. Herbicides have been and will continue to be a widely used tool for weed control; however, weed resistance to herbicides, pressure to minimize input costs of weed control, and questions about proper stewardship of herbicide-resistant crop technology exemplify the need for further research with weed control systems for continued cost-efficient crop and rangeland production. In addition, weed resistance to herbicides and public concern about pesticide usage indicate the need for development of alternate weed-management systems with foundation in biological, physical, and cultural practices.

The department had seven weed scientists addressing diverse needs in 2003. Dr. Alan Dexter focuses on weed control systems in sugarbeet for North Dakota and Minnesota. Dr. Calvin Messersmith has responsibility to teach "World Food Crops", "Principles of Weed Science", and "Weed Identification" and to conduct research in application technology and adjuvant systems. Dr. Rod Lym emphasizes on research for invasive weed control and teaches "Laboratory Methods in Weed Science". Dr. Richard Zollinger is the lead extension weed scientist and conducts research on weed control in corn, soybean, and dry bean. Dr. George Kegode focuses on research related to weed biology and ecology and weed control in potato plus teaching "Weed Biology and Ecology". Dr. Kirk Howatt emphasizes research for weed control in small-grains and minor crops and teaches "Advanced Weed Science" and "Action and Fate of Herbicides". Dr. Michael Christoffers conducts molecular genetic research concerning weed resistance to herbicides and teaches "Genetics".

Several of the research projects deal primarily with chemical weed-control programs. Research includes herbicide evaluation, antagonism investigation, application technology, adjuvant science, and herbicide-resistant weeds. This reflects the importance of herbicides in providing consistent and effective weed-control solutions in food production. Even though cultural, biological, and physical control methods are important tools for weed-control, herbicides were applied to over 80% of North Dakota cropland in 2000. This percentage exceeds 90% of cropland if alfalfa and hay acres are not included. In the foreseeable future, growers will continue to rely on herbicides as a major component of their weed control program. Evaluating new herbicides and developing use patterns for existing herbicides to maximize cost efficiency in weed control will continue to be of prominent importance in addressing the production and economic needs of our clientele.

Invasive weed control is more heavily dependent than annual weed control in providing weed-control systems that rely on integration of biological, chemical, and cultural methods. The use of biological control in rangeland and wildland has been instrumental in curbing the expansion of acreage infested with leafy spurge. This success is spurring interest in similar programs for other invasive weeds and is embraced by the national directive to manage invasive weed species.

Investigations of biological aspects of weeds are underway. The intended outcome is to improve understanding of weed ecology and enhance weed-management strategies through proper implementation. A thorough understanding of plant life cycles can be used to manipulate current practices to achieve the most beneficial outcome, regardless of weed-control method or plant community.

The current debate concerning transgenic crops emphasizes the need for weed control programs to consider the end user. A variety of weed-control programs for different markets and programs that implement a variety of methods to control weeds will be needed to meet the future requirements of both producers and end users. Even though chemical weed control is expected to be the cornerstone of weed control programs in the future of North Dakota agriculture, information on basic weed biology, biocontrol, crop rotations, and tillage interactions will lead to integrated management approaches that reduce reliance on herbicides. This also may delay the evolution of weeds resistant to herbicides and provide alternatives to control weed populations with demonstrated resistance characteristics. Research into integrated control methods requires greater input of public funds than does research with pesticides, because integrated programs do not attract funding from the private sector.

Action Plan

• Formal relationships have been established at the department and inter-department levels to identify and address weed-control needs and to examine the effects of weed-control methods on commodities and products. These relationships should be continued and further developed.

• Replace Dr. Dexter when he retires with a person to conduct weed-control research in sugarbeet similar to the present project. This position has been instrumental in the success of the sugarbeet industry in North Dakota and Minnesota. The sugarbeet industry in North Dakota and Minnesota may not survive if present or similar government programs on sugar are not continued. This position would be eliminated if sugarbeet is no longer produced in North Dakota or Minnesota.

• Replace Dr. Messersmith when he retires. Dr. Messersmith has an important teaching role for the weed science group and department. It is suggested that his teaching load be combined with another new position to create two positions with 65% research-35% teaching appointments. One position should focus research on application technology. This includes spray-system equipment and application method as well as renewing a concerted effort to develop adjuvants. Weed science and producers have benefitted from adjuvant technology brought forth by NDSU, and it is reasonable that more improvements can be made. The other position would focus on either weed control in transgenic cropping systems or weed control in organic agriculture as described in the next two bullet points.

• A new position to conduct research on weed issues in transgenic cropping systems should be created. Transgenic crops are becoming more important to North Dakota. Transgenic soybean, canola, and corn are commonly grown in North Dakota and the rest of the United States. From 1992 to 2001, the acreage of small grains in the state decreased by about 3.5 million acres, which was counter-balanced mainly by a three million acre increase in soybean and canola production. Clientele continue to raise questions that are specific to weed control in transgenic crops, and information from conventional cropping systems is not always applicable to the transgenic system. Because transgenic-systems research would deal with cropping sequences, this position also would assume direction of weed research in crop rotations.

• A new position to conduct research on weed control in organic agriculture should be created. The number of acres in production of organic commodities is increasing rapidly in North Dakota. Public concern over transgenic crops and pesticide residues in food is strengthening the organic market. Weed control is a significant concern in organic agriculture because of the lack of control options. Profitable organic-food production is only possible if weeds and other pests can be managed. Weed-control strategies and programs that can be implemented in the organic system should be investigated.

• The priorities for the weed science group are: 1) technician for the molecular genetic position, 2) technician for the extension weeds position, 3) new faculty and technician on herbicide application technology, 4) new faculty on cropping systems, 5) new faculty on organic weed control, and 6) technicians for new cropping systems and organic weed-control positions.

• Weed science projects need to emphasize cost-effective weed control that promotes maximum benefits. These benefits include economic profit, ecological health, improved aesthetics, and environmental stewardship, which can be achieved by developing reduced-rate herbicide programs, improving adjuvant selection and application delivery, integrating control methods, developing biological control methods, improving non-chemical control methods, understanding weed biology, and understanding inheritance and expression of herbicide resistance in weeds.

3. Crop and Horticultural Production, Turfgrass management, Forestry, and Physiology

Crop production and horticultural scientists are responsible for several diverse, yet important programs in the department. Currently programs exist in new, minor, and alternative crops (Dr. Burton Johnson); high-value fruit and vegetable crops (Dr. Harlene Hatterman-Valenti); greenhouse vegetable production (Dr. Chiwon Lee); forage crops (Dr. Dwain Meyer); sports turfgrass management (Dr. Deying Li); and crop physiology (Dr. Edward Deckard). These projects are augmented by production research conducted by breeders and weed scientists, extension specialists [flowers, vegetables, herbs, and turfgrass (Dr. Ronald Smith), urban forestry and conservation plantings (Dr. Joseph Zeleznik), and small grains (Dr. Joel Ransom)], and scientists at out-state NDSU research and extension centers. These scientists determine optimum practices for the various crops and test new concepts that can potentially increase yield, decrease production hazards, or decrease the cost of production. Often this research is in direct response to problems or concerns brought forth by producers or recognized as potential problems by scientists, or in the case of minor, new, and vegetable crops, adaptation and basic management practices are evaluated.

A new program in high-value crops is addressing the needs of potato producers as this crop moves more towards irrigated production on sandy soils and is evaluating production practices needed for new cultivars. Onion production is also evaluated in this program. Carrot production has and continues to be an important researchable area. A new program (teaching and research) in sports turf management should bolster our knowledge of turfgrass management in the North Dakota climate. Reinitiating the urban forestry and conservation plantings position should strengthen the tree management area.

Unfortunately, with the exception of cultivar testing, only fragmented research on crop production techniques is conducted in North Dakota on major crops like spring wheat, durum, barley, oat, soybean, corn, sunflower, canola, and dry beans. With North Dakota as a leading producer in several of these crops, additional coordinated production research would seem warranted.

Crop physiologists study biochemical/physiological traits with the goal of increasing our knowledge and understanding of plant growth and development, explaining findings and experimental results, and determining the optimal physiology for the many genotype by environment by cropping system combinations. The continued development of biotechnology tools have augmented and expanded researchable areas. Any change in crop productivity or quality requires a corresponding change in physiology. Thus, crop physiologists conduct both basic and applied research with scientists in plant breeding/genetics, weed control, crop production, and related agricultural fields.

In addition to the importance of small-grain and row-crop production discussed in previous sections, North Dakota also produces 1.2 million acres of mixed forages (dominated by alfalfa-grass mixtures), 809,000 acres of pure alfalfa, 433,700 acres of cool-season grasses used primarily as pastures, 155,000 acres of oat and other small grain hays, 118,500 acres of warm-season annuals (primarily sudangrass and foxtail millet), and 18,600 acres of sweetclover. Present forage research evaluates several management factors affecting alfalfa, like autotoxicity, harvest schedules, winter hardiness, establishment techniques, seeding rates, stand age effects, etc. Limited species, nitrogen fertility, and harvest management is conducted in grasses and a new project evaluating forage quality of oat hays has been initiated. New concepts in forage management that must be evaluated is the developing Roundup Ready alfalfa, autotoxicity and autoconditioning in alfalfa, and lower lignin oat lines that have the potential to increase animal performance.

Initial research on production of sunflower, canola, soybean, dry beans, and dry peas was conducted by the new/alternative crops project but today are major crops for the state. Minor crops like mustard, lentils, buckwheat, safflower, proso millet, crambe, winter rye, and grain sorghum play an important role in cropping diversity and the region's economy. Alternative crops like triticale, speltz, onion, amaranth, kamut, spearmint, and various fruits and vegetables have small acreages, but provide additional cropping options for North Dakota producers. Emerging new-crop areas that needs additional research include imi-sunflower, other essential oil crops like lavender to augment the developing spearmint industry, natural or genetically modified nutroceutical crops, onion production for the developing onion peel industry, cabbage production for a wet salad plant, and potential biomass crops for paper, liquid fuel, or fiber production. Organic crop production is an increasingly common enterprise in North Dakota and an increased effort on organic crop-production research would assist this developing enterprise.

Research in crop physiology has frequently been conducted to help explain findings and solve problems, or to expand knowledge and understanding. The explanation of findings and solving problems are important parts of the science of production agriculture, since its this knowledge that drives applied research. Continued improvements in plant breeding, crop management, and crop efficiency are dependent on conducting appropriate crop physiology research.

Action Plan

Research in improved, sustainable crop-production techniques for the new, minor, alternative, high-value, and forage crops should continue to be addressed in conjunction with the research/extension centers. Support for the present production projects should be continued and possibly expanded when additional funds are available.

Location and development of a new research site (about 25 acres) for the present horticultural area is a high priority since a building for the College of Business Administration has been proposed for the present site.

Replace Dr. Herman when he retires. Dr. Herman has carried an important teaching role for the horticulture major within the department. Consideration should be given to splitting his position with one emphasizing woody plant development and the other research and teaching in fruit production. This would greatly aid in equitable teaching loads.

Replace Dr. Smith if he should retire. Dr. Smith carries the bulk of the extension load in the horticultural area and some horticultural and turfgrass research. If he retires, this should be the highest priority in the department.

A new production position emphasizing small-grain cereals and organic crop production should be considered.

Field trials on flowers, vegetables, ornamental grasses, turfgrasses, and herbs will increase in the next five years. Technical support is needed to establish and care for these trials.

The priority for positions would be 1) replacement of Dr. Smith if he retires, 2) replace Dr. Herman in woody plant improvement, 3) new position fruit production, 4) new position in small-grain cereals and organic crop production, and 5) technical support in horticulture area.

4. Cereal Science

Since the creation of the Department of Milling and Baking in 1905, cereal scientists at North Dakota State University have made significant contributions toward the improvement of quality and the end-use of cereal grains grown in North Dakota and the surrounding region. In 2003, the cereal science research program was incorporated into the Department of Plant Sciences. Dr. Paul Schwarz directs research on the quality of malting barley. Dr. Monisha Chakraborty conducts research on cereal carbohydrates and on the use and quality of HRS/HWS wheat. Dr. Frank Manthey conducts research on the use and quality of durum wheat. Mr. Truman Olson administers the HRS wheat-quality-testing laboratory. These programs need to develop a strategy to create new or strengthen old collaborations with scientists in the department, college, USDA, and industry. This strategy must include measures that maintain national and international identity for the cereal science program.

The barley, HRS/HWS wheat, and durum wheat quality programs work closely with the respective plant breeders and geneticists in the department to ensure that newly released cultivars have excellent end-use properties. Annual surveys of barley, HRS/HWS wheat, and durum wheat quality involve cooperation with commodity groups and USDA Agricultural Statistics offices in Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Samples collected represent a database for a particular year and often are used to identify and solve agronomic, milling, and/or processing problems related to the new crop. In addition, sub-lots of exported HRS and durum wheat are evaluated for grain, milling, and end-use quality. Mycotoxin screening services are provided to all US barley cultivar improvement programs currently involved in the development of Fusarium head blight resistant germplasm and cultivars.

Research is conducted to determine the functionality of grain components and the effects of environmental and production factors and processing parameters on end-use quality. These areas often incorporate work on value-added and food-safety issues. Examples include research on proteins associated with dough strength, on starch and non-starch polysaccharides associated with frozen dough, fresh pasta/noodle and malt/beer quality, on identification of flavor components in barley and malt, on extending shelf-life of baked products, on lipids and enzymes associated with semolina and pasta color, and on flour requirements and processing technologies needed to incorporate nontraditional ingredients in wheat-based products. Efforts also are conducted on the impact of plant disease on end-product quality. Results of the above research often are incorporated into cultivar development.

Research efforts can expand into a number of additional areas. As examples, the demand for high-quality convenience foods continue to grow, and processing technologies and grain quality requirements for convenience foods, e.g., fresh and frozen food products, often differ from that required to produce traditional products. Incorporation of cereal science into the Department of Plant Sciences also provides the unique opportunity to strengthen interdisciplinary research efforts into the genetic and physiological basis of grain quality.

Action Plan

Maintain strong relationships with appropriate commodity organizations and the food processing industry.

Replace Dennis Grodon's position with a faculty member to conduct research on grain quality. Dough rheology, proteonomics, and milling (small-grain and oilseed crops) have been identified as critical for maintaining a viable cereal science program.

Hire a replacement for Mr. Truman Olson when he retires. This individual would oversee and participate in the HRS/HWS wheat survey, cultivar development, export sub-lot evaluation and fee-for-service under the supervision of Dr. Monisha Chakraborty. Consideration should be made requiring the individual to have a M.S. degree and be a research specialist.

Replace Ms. Rachel Olson when she retires. This position should be converted from a soft- money position sponsored by the North Dakota Wheat Commission to an appropriated state- funded position. This individual must have bread-baking experience.

Formulate a plan to systematically update quality-testing equipment to take advantage of the capabilities of current or new technology. New screening technology would benefit cultivar development by allowing smaller sample sizes and greater and quicker sample throughput.

A laboratory needs to be created that is capable of assessing the quality of transgenic wheat.

VI. FORCES THAT DRIVE CHANGE IN PLANT AGRICULTURE

Research in the Department of Plant Sciences has focused on plant breeding/genetics and biotechnology, weed science, crop production, cereal sciences, crop physiology, horticulture and forestry. These research areas have focused on meeting the needs of North Dakota and the region.

As state appropriated monies for research purposes are reduced, faculty find it necessary to seek external funding for research purposes. External funding may change the direction of the research rather than focus on the needs of the constituents of the state. Extramural funding is available to conduct fundamental or basic research, yet are unavailable to apply the findings of this research. State monies also are insufficient to use new technologies and findings for applied problems. While scientists in the department should actively seek external sources of funding, they should remain aware of their responsibility to the agricultural sector in the state and continue their primary mission.

The Plant Sciences Department has had a long and fruitful association with USDA-ARS scientists located at the Northern Crops Science Laboratory on the NDSU campus. Thirteen USDA-ARS scientists are adjunct professors in the department and interact with specific projects on a routine basis. These USDA scientists are critical for the department to achieve both long- and short-term goals. Research in the department will be hampered if USDA reduces the number of scientists or modifies their activities. In addition, many collaborative associations have been established with USDA scientists at other locations to facilitate research important to the state.

Attempts should be made by faculty to expand interactions with end-processors of commodities important in the state. A partnership composed of scientists, commodity groups, and industry should be established to solve problems of both producers and end-processors.

Action Plan

A. Research Capacity Maintenance and Enhancement

• North Dakota has a diverse crop agriculture enterprise that generates approximately 2.2 billion dollars cash receipts out of the total cash receipts for crops and livestock of 2.9 billion dollars. Unique to North Dakota is the fact that all major crops have research (breeding and production) attention by Department of Plant Sciences faculty or adjuncts.

• The Department of Plant Sciences will actively support efforts to retain, replace, and augment USDA scientists that conduct research vital to the state's economy. The department must evaluate state projects should the loss of USDA scientists affect state programs.

• Collaboration with scientists at other universities will continue. These collaborative efforts have involved primarily individuals at land-grant universities. Efforts to develop collaborative linkages with non-land-grant universities will be made.

• The Department of Plant Sciences should explore future collaboration with programs at North Dakota University Systems institutions to further educational and research commitments to the state. This may become essential if state support continues to decline.

• The Department of Plant Sciences has a long history of strong interaction with international centers, including CIMMYT (The International Maize and Wheat Center), CIAT (International Center for Tropical Agriculture), CIP (International Center for Potato), and ICARDA (International Center for Agricultural Research in Dryland Areas). The department will capitalize on opportunities to develop strong collaborative relationships in areas of mutual interest.

• The Department of Plant Sciences encourages university administration to provide state-supported technical help to research projects. Support staff maintains high efficiency and maintains continuity of effort for long-term research projects.

B. Personal and Professional Reward

• Developing and recognizing formal and informal cross-disciplinary research teams will continue when appropriate.

• Faculty are encouraged to take developmental leave to learn new insight in their areas of expertise and to learn new technologies. Developmental leave for teaching also is highly encouraged. In order to achieve this goal, the university must improve both incentives and available options.

C. Physical Facilities and Equipment

• Additional laboratory equipment to fully utilize new technologies should be purchased with state funding for the projects involved. Group purchases are encouraged.

• The condition of research equipment for most projects ranges from good to very poor and varies considerably among projects. Much of the variability in field-plot equipment is based on whether a project has strong associations with a commodity group and/or industry that can provide financial support. Attempts should be made by the department to seek outside funding for equipment if the state continues to abrogate its responsibilities.

• Research land near the university is being lost due to NDSU campus expansion. University administration should devise a plan to acquire and develop land for research purposes, of equal or better quality in exchange for land that is lost to expansion. Administration also should remain aware that off-station facilities cost more for each project because of travel costs. Safety of workers should be considered since increased travel distances and times increases the risk of accidents.

• The Department of Plant Sciences should investigate the establishment of an irrigated research facility in the Fargo-Moorhead vicinity to reduce the severe effects of drought on agricultural research.

• Greenhouse and growth chamber space for many research programs is minimal. The department should encourage administration to identify increased greenhouse facilities and purchase of growth chambers as a priority funding item from state monies.

• Costs associated with leasing vehicles from the State Motor Pool to conduct field work throughout the state has seriously eroded operating funds for the research projects in the department. Efforts to minimize this impact on research need to be made.

APPENDIX

AES STRATEGIC PLAN INFORMATION

DEPARTMENT OF PLANT SCIENCES

January 2004

I. FACULTY COMPOSITION

Faculty and professional support personnel

Rank/

Year Date of Degree/ % time in^a

Faculty Apptd. Promotion Specialty College T R E O

Berglund, D. R. 1977 Prof. 1983 Row crops 1971-PhD-NDSU 100

Berzonsky, W. A. 1998 Asst. Prof. Wheat breeding 1988-PhD-MO-Col. 100

Cai, X. 2002 Asst. Prof. Wheat genetics/cytology 1998-PhD-Wash. St. 40 60

Carena, M.J. 1999 Asst. Prof. Corn breeding/genetics 1998-PhD-Iowa State 06 94

Chakraborty, M. 1998 Asst. Prof. Cereal Chemistry 1997-PhD-Hong Kong15 85

Christoffers, M. 2001 Asst. Prof. Weed science/genetics 1998-PhD-MO-Col. 40 60

Dai, D.W. 2002 Asst. Prof. Woody plants phys/biol 2001-PhD-NDSU 15 85

Deckard, E. L. 1970 Prof. 1981 Crop physiology 1970-PhD-Illinois 49 51

Dexter, A. G.* 1969 Prof. 1978 Weed physiology 1969-PhD-Illinois 10 90

Elias, E. M. 1990 Prof. 2003 Durum breeding 1987-PhD-NDSU 05 95

Franckowiak, J. D 1978 Prof. 1985 Barley breeding/genetics 1970-PhD-Wisconsin 05 95

Hammond, J. J. 1969 Prof. 1981 Flax breeding/biometrics 1969-PhD-Nebraska 05 95

H-Valenti, H. 2000 Asst. Prof. High-value crops 1993-PhD-Iowa State 10 90

Helms, T. C. 1986 Assoc.Prof. 1996 Soybean breeding 1986-PhD-Iowa State 05 95

Herman, D. E. 1971 Prof. 1978 Woody plants/ornamentals 1966-PhD-Purdue 35 50 15

Horsley, R. D. 1988 Prof. 2002 Barley breeding 1987-PhD-NDSU 10 90

Howatt, K.A. 1999 Asst. Prof. Weed science 1999-PhD-Colo. St. 10 90

Johnson, B.L. 1998 Asst. Prof. Sunflower/New Crops 1993-PhD-NDSU 10 90

Kegode, G.O. 1999 Asst. Prof. Weed Biology/Ecology 1995-PhD-Iowa State 10 90

Kianian, S.F. 1997 Assoc.Prof. 2003 HRSW brdg/germpl. enh. 1990-PhD-UC-Davis 20 80

Lee, C. W. 1991 Prof. 2001 Ornamentals/turf/biotech. 1977-PhD-Purdue 80 20

Li, D.M. 2002 Asst. Prof. Sports Turf Management 2001-PhD-Iowa State 80 20

Lym, R. G. 1979 Prof. 1993 Perennial weed control 1979-PhD-Wyoming 05 95

Manthey, F. 1998 Asst. Prof. Cereal Chemistry 1985-PhD-NDSU 15 85

McClean, P. E. 1985 Prof. 1998 Dry bean biotechnology 1982-PhD-Colo. St. 45 55

McMullen, M. S. 1976 Assoc.Prof. 1981 Oat breeding/genetics 1976-PhD-Minnesota 05 95

Mergoum, M. 2002 Assoc. Prof. HRSW Breeding/genetics 1991-PhD-Colo. St. 05 95

Messersmith, C.G. 1966 Prof. 1979 Weed science, physiology 1970-PhD-NDSU 70 30

Meyer, D. W. 1970 Prof. 1981 Forage production 1970-PhD-Iowa State 25 65 10

Ransom, J.K. 2002 Assoc. Prof. Agronomist/Small grains 1982-PhD-Minnesota 100

Schneiter, A. A. 1974 Prof. 1981 Crop production 1973-PhD-Arizona 25 65 10

Schwarz, P. B. 1989 Assoc. Prof. Cereal Chemistry 1987-PhD-NDSU 10 90

Smith, R. C. 1985 Prof. 1991 Ext. horticulture/turfgrass 1973-PhD-Ohio State 10 90

Thompson, A.L. 2001 Asst. Prof. Potato Breeding 1998-PhD-Idaho 10 90

Thostenson, A. 1998 Ext. Spec. Pesticides 1984-MS-Idaho 100

Vacant Dry bean breeding

Williams, M. D. 2001 Seedstocks Dir. Seedstocks 1978-PhD-Minnesota 100

Zeleznik, J. D. 2002 Ext. Forester Urban/Rural Forestry 2001-PhD-Mich. St. 05 95

Zollinger, R. K. 1990 Assoc.Prof. 1996 Weed Science 1989-PhD-Mich. St. 10 90

*Appointment 50% NDSU and 50% Univ. of Minnesota

^aT=Teaching, R=Research, E=Extension, O=Other

Adjunct Professors

Rank/

Year Date of Degree/ % time in^a

Adjunct Apptd. Promotion Specialty College T R E O

Anderson, J. V. 1998 Plant Biochemistry PhD-Virginia Poly USDA

Campbell, L. G. 1978 1978 Sugarbeet genetics PhD-Kansas State USDA

Carr, P. M. 1992 1994 Sustainable agriculture PhD-Montana Carr. REC

Chao, W. S. 1999 Perennial weeds PhD-Cal.-Davis USDA

Dahleen, L. S. 1989 1989 Barley biotechnology PhD-Minnesota USDA

Faris, J. Cereal crops PhD-Kansas State USDA

Foley, M. E. 1998 Weed biology PhD-Illinois USDA

Henson, R. A. 1998 Crop production PhD-Minnesota Carr. REC

Horvath, D. P. 1995 Perennial weed physiologyPhD-Michigan State USDA

Hu, Jinguo 2003 Sunflower genomics PhD-Cal.-Davis USDA

Jan, C. C. 1985 1985 Sunflower cytogenetics PhD-California USDA

Jauhar, P. P. 1992 1992 Wheat cytogenetics PhD-India USDA

Klotz, K.L. 1999 Sugarbeet physiology PhD-Ohio State USDA

Lulai, Edward 1981 1981 Potato physiology PhD-UND USDA

Miller, J. F. 1976 1976 Flax and sunflower genet. PhD-NDSU USDA

Seiler, G. J. 1989 1989 Sunf.&sugarbeet germpl. PhD-NDSU USDA

Sowokinas, J. R. 1983 1983 Potato physiology PhD-UND USDA

Suttle, J. C. 1992 1992 Potato physiology PhD-Michigan State USDA

Xu, S. S. 2002 HRSW development PhD-NDSU USDA

Professor Emeritus

Boe, A. A. 1983 Veg. brdg/tissue culture PhD-Utah

Carter, J. F.* 1950 Forage crop production PhD-Wisconsin

Cross, H.Z. 1971 Corn genetics/breeding PhD-Missouri

Duysen, M.E. 1965 Cellular regulation PhD-Nebraska

Foster, A. E. 1958 Barley breeding PhD-SDSU

Frohberg, R. C. 1964 HRSW breeding/genetics PhD-Iowa State

Galitz, D.S. 1968 Physiology

Holland, N. 1972 Fruits/woody plants MS-NDSU

Joppa, L.R. 1967 Res. Gen., durum

Lund, H, R. 1973 Potato breeding/genetics PhD-Purdue

Maan, S. S. 1962 Wheat genetics/cytogen. PhD-Kansas State

Nalewaja, J. D. 1962 Weed science/physiology PhD-Minnesota

Nelson, D. C. 1961 Potato physiology PhD-Minnesota

Smith, G.A. 1953 Sugarbeet genetics

Smith, G. S. 1934 Wheat breeding PhD-Minnesota

Spilde, L. A. 1983 Seedstocks director PhD-NDSU

Whited, D. A. 1968 Genetics teaching PhD-NDSU

*Dr. Carter is the only Professor Emeritus who is active. Much of Dr. Carter's efforts are directed towards

promoting the utilization of flax, which contains high levels of Omega 3, for human consumption. Consumption

of flax appears to have numerous medical and dietary benefits.

Other Plant Sciences Staff

Postdoc. Research Fellow/Visiting Scientists

Abu Hammad, W. Durum wheat research

Gelin, J.R. Dry bean breeding/genetics

Gonzalez, J. Scab resistance/Spring wheat

Gu, X. Weed biology

Hossain, K. Wheat genomics

Lee, S. Plant physiology & veg.

Lu, H. Wheat genetics

Niu, Z. X. Durum breeding

Rojas, G. Dry bean breeding/genetics

Satyavathi, V. Wheat genetics

Secretarial staff Classification

Aanstad, Robin Administrative Secretary

Blaskowski, Michelle Administrative Secretary

Brantseg, Sue Administrative Secretary

Buringrud, Eileen Administrative Assistant

Erdmann, Tammy Administrative Secretary (Pesticide program)

Hienz, Louise Administrative Secretary

Johnson, Lisa Administrative Secretary

Nelson, Edie Administrative Secretary

Odegaard, Mary Beth Administrative Secretary (Pesticide program)

Perrin, Char Administrative Secretary

Welter, Melissa Account Technician

Technical Support Personnel

Research Specialists/Technicians/Chemists

Barr, John Barley quality

Baumann, Robert Oat breeding

Bellon, Mike Seed processing

Berglund, Lois HRS/HWS Wheat Use and Quality

Birdsall, David Wheat breeding/USDA

Bresnahan, Gail Weed science

Carlson, Kay Wheat cytogenetics

Chaput, Larry Woody plants

Christianson, Katheryn Perennial weeds

Ciernia, Mark Weed control

Davidson-Harrington, Janet Weed science

Deckard, Brenda Student services director

Doehler, Erik Wheat molecular genetics/USDA

Erickson, Ann Potato breeding/genetics

Faller, James HRS Wheat breeding

Faller, Jason Barley breeding

Farnsworth, Bryce Potato breeding

Friederichs, Steve High value crops

Genoch, Roger Barley breeding

Gillespie, James Mycotoxin research

Green, Marci Barley breeding

Gregoire, Pete Crop physiology

Gulleson, John HRS wheat breeding

Hanson, David Soybean breeding

Hatzenbeller, Debra Mycotoxin research

Hegstad, Justin Wheat germplasm enhancement

Hinsz, Brent Durum Wheat Use and Quality

Research Specialists/Technicians/Chemists (continued)

Hochhalter, Martin Barley breeding

Kercher, Kreg Durum wheat breeding

Kimberlin, Cheryl Plant physiology/USDA

Klindworth, Daryl Wheat genetics/USDA

Lafta, Abbas Potato physiology

Laschkewitsch, Barb Herbaceous ornamentals

Leach, Gene Hard spring wheat

Lee, Rian Dry bean genetics/biotechnology

Lindberg, Lyle Flax breeding

Luecke, John Sugarbeet weed control

Magnusen, Victoria Woody plants biotechnology

Maianu, Josef Seedstocks

Mark, Sandra Weed science

Martin, Larry Soybean breeding

Mayland, Paul High value crop production

McArthur, Rachel Barley gen./biotech/USDA

McMonagle, Kelly HRS Wheat Quality

McNamara, Heather Barley quality

Meyer, Scott Ext. small grains

Nudell, Robert Forage crop production

Olsen, Rachel HRS Wheat Quality

Olson, Truman HRS Wheat Quality

Osborne, John Durum Wheat Use and Quality

Pederson, Jeremy Durum breeding

Pederson, Shauna Weed science

Peterson, Paula Crop production

Rehder, Dale Sunflower breeding/USDA

Ries, Jerry Weed survey

Roach, Ron Weed control

Stancyk, Stan Durum breeding

VanderWal, Jody Dry bean breeding

Wanner, Duane Corn breeding

Wentz, Mary Molecular wheat genetics

Wijetunga, Theja Molecular markers

Zhou, Zingkai Weed science