The Department of Plant Sciences is an integral component of the College of Agriculture and the North Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station at North Dakota State University. The department provides a wide array of class offerings in plant sciences, including genetics, physiology, crop breeding, weed science, production, and horticulture/forestry. In addition, the department maintains a critical research and extension role for the state and region, primarily by developing new crop cultivars and cost-effective weed control strategies, and educating clientele about these developments and general crop production.
The Department will provide students the knowledge, skills, and understanding critical for professional success in a changing global economy. Teaching emphasis will include plant breeding, genetics, weed science, biotechnology, crop production, crop physiology, and horticulture/forestry. Involvement in interdisciplinary undergraduate programs, such as Plant Protection and Biotechnology, allow our faculty to better address the needs of both agricultural and non-agricultural students. The department will continue to maintain high standards for its excellent graduate program by actively recruiting highly qualified students and faculty. The department will monitor graduate stipends in order to remain competitive with other departments in the region. We will encourage students to interact with faculty in other disciplines to broaden their experiences.
The Department has a distinguished history in research programs that complement the teaching emphases of the department. Basic and applied research in these programs have provided new wealth, economic development, and improve the quality of life in the state and region by developing: a) superior germplasm and cultivars for use by producers and homeowners in the state and region using traditional and novel techniques; b) improved weed control strategies for greater cost-effectiveness and environmental safety; and c) improved production practices of forages, traditional crops, and new crops. Research in the department also examines physiological processes of crop plants in diverse genotype-environment-cropping system interactions, and identifies unique trees, shrubs, and turfgrass that can be grown in the region. Cooperation with faculty in other departments and the Research/Extension Centers provide a multidisciplinary approach to achieve these goals.
Extension faculty work closely with research scientists at the University and Research/Extension Centers to develop multidisciplinary educational programs. Programs to introduce new cultivars, effective cultural practices, efficient weed control strategies, integrated pest management, and improved horticultural practices have been successful because of the extension specialists' close interaction with scientists and clientele groups.
The department goals outlined in this plan may be achieved given the current fiscal environment. However, deficiencies have been identified by the faculty that require additional support. Some major items raised by many faculty are listed below:
Strengthening wheat breeding-genetics research and research in weed science by creating new positions in these areas would allow the department to maintain continuity of research effort in programs that are economically important to the state.
Acquiring and developing land for research purposes should begin as soon as possible to replace land near the University that will be lost to university expansion and commercial development.
The condition of research equipment can be rated poor to good and varies considerably among projects. The lack of state appropriated monies to replace outdated equipment or equipment in poor condition requires that a plan be developed to maintain or improve equipment needs.
Make available state funded research technicians and/or specialists for research projects that lack such support.
Cuts in state appropriated monies for research purposes have impacted projects severely. Efforts to restore funding for research should be made.
I. ROLE OF THE DEPARTMENT IN NORTH DAKOTA AGRICULTURE
North Dakota ranks first nationally in production of barley, all dry edible beans, pinto bean, flaxseed, sunflower, durum wheat, and hard red spring wheat. It ranks second in production of navy bean, oat, and all wheat. It ranks third in production of potato and fourth in rye and sugarbeet. Cash receipts from crops (1996) accounted for 75% of the total of farm income in North Dakota. Government payment for crops constituted 8.6% of the total income, while livestock products accounted for 16.4% of the total state 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 department for cultivar development, development of improved weed control methodologies, and all aspects of genetic, physiological, and production techniques to increase plant yield and utilization. The department conducts collaborative efforts with other departments at North Dakota State University, especially the departments of Plant Pathology, Cereal Science, Soil Science, and Entomology improve the overall efficiency of crop improvement and production activities.
Preamble to Strategic Plan:
The Department of Plant Sciences (PS) 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 administration of the College of Agriculture indicates that, for 1996, the Department of Plant Sciences had in place 5.55 FTE faculty assigned to teaching, 21.75 FTE faculty and 12.7 professional nonclassified faculty assigned to research, and 5 FTE faculty and 2 professional nonclassified faculty assigned to extension. In addition, there are 22 professional classified, 25 technical staff positions, and 9.7 clerical staff to support teaching, research, and extension activities.
Facilities: The Department of Plant Sciences occupies 124,595 square feet of space on the campus (office, laboratory, greenhouse, and field building space). Approximately 1,000 acres of land 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 total expenditure of funds for research programs in Plant Sciences for fiscal Year '96 by source is as follows:
Federal
Hatch $450,316
RRF 26,969
McIntire Stennis 34,239
Special Grants 520,834
Comp. Grants 167,716
Other Federal 63,521
Sub-total $1,263,595
Non-Federal
State $2,434,386
Sales/Income 193,411
Industry 378,842
Other 454,704
Sub-total $3,461,343
Total $4,724,938
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, and horticulture. We will teach undergraduate and graduate students 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 community will be addressed by the department. Crop production is the cornerstone of the North Dakota economy, generating 83.6% of the North Dakota gross farm income (1996 figures of cash receipts and government payments for crops). While production techniques will change (reduced pesticide use because of improved crop resistances, integrated farming practices, biological control of weeds, and breakthroughs in new technology), the state's emphasis on crop production will be maintained. Findings in basic research will provide the needed answers for future successes in applied research, thereby strengthening the state's economy now and in the future. Our talented, well-trained, and diversified faculty are working to meet these challenges.
We anticipate maintaining strong linkages with commodity groups in the region and will actively seek additional linkages with processors of these raw products. Developing 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/Extension Center personnel throughout the state will continue, facilitating dissemination of information to the department's clientele.
III. MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the Department of Plant Sciences is to: a) teach traditional and advanced concepts and techniques in the disciplines of plant breeding and genetics, weed science, horticulture and forestry (H/F), plant physiology, 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 the form of demonstrations, professional publications, extension bulletins, and outreach programs.
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 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. Research
1. Develop, using traditional breeding and new methodologies, superior cultivars of plants important to the economy 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 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, new, and alternative crops.
C. Extension
1. Provide crop producers 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. Work in close cooperation with the North Dakota Crop Improvement Association and County Crop Improvement organizations 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.
IV. DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATION AND PRIORITIES
The size of the department dictates that the department chair requires assistance from faculty to achieve departmental objectives. The chair seeks input regularly from faculty representing the various areas (teaching, research, and extension) and disciplines (e.g., plant breeding-genetics, weed science, etc.) in the department, as well as standing committees as needs arise. As a result of these needs, a committee was formed to mentor faculty as they proceed through the promotion and tenure process.
Since 1986, the department has lost 6.5 scientist positions (2.5 positions lost in wheat research and 4.0 positions in H/F). These positions were not filled because of the severe economic impact placed upon the College of Agriculture and the Agricultural Experiment Station by passage of a tax referral in 1989 that reduced the state income tax rate, thereby reducing funding levels to all state departments and higher education.
Priority needs of the department include: 1) increased operating and equipment funds from the state for current projects; 2) filling currently vacant positions in weed science and crop production; 3) maintaining continuity of the wheat research and weed science programs. This action is necessary because of the economic impact these programs have on the state. The department maintains these priorities are critical needs. However, upon vacancy of a position, either through retirement or resignation, the department chair and a departmental committee representing all disciplines in the department will evaluate replacement or redirection of the position, as appropriate with the long-range goals of the department.
V. STRENGTHS OF THE DEPARTMENT
A. Teaching Programs
1. Undergraduate Teaching
The PS faculty believe that the present undergraduate program is effective for providing our students with the knowledge and skills to excel in various careers or to continue on in graduate school. Nevertheless, PS is an evolving discipline and new technologies, environmental, global, and public policy issues, in addition to the changing student backgrounds, will require monitoring and adjustments of the undergraduate program.
a. Plant Sciences Curriculum
Prior to the merger with H/F, the Crop and Weed Science (CWS) faculty conducted a comprehensive evaluation of their curriculum at the time of semester conversion and several changes were made to better prepare undergraduate students for careers in the discipline. The changes were made to improve the training of PS students for: 1) learning the basic knowledge of the discipline, 2) being problem-solvers in the diverse crop production areas, 3) becoming critical thinkers and skillful communicators, and 4) becoming effective evaluators of the relationships of scientific principles and public policy. The effectiveness of these modifications, and the resultant curriculum, will be assessed in the coming years and refinements made when needs are indicated.
In a recent survey of alumni, 97% of the respondents were satisfied with the knowledge and instruction in the major field and 89% were satisfied with the contribution of the major to their present occupation. This suggests that wholesale changes may not be necessary in the next several years, although refinements should be considered to stay abreast with changing student backgrounds and job responsibilities. Recent evaluations of our undergraduate programs by both employers and former students indicated a high level of satisfaction.
b. Student Numbers and Employment Outlook
The number of employment opportunities for PS graduates has increased steadily over the last few years and is expected to remain at a high level or continue to increase for the next several years. The enrollment of PS undergraduate majors continues to increase. Even with this increase, PS cannot meet the employment demand for Crop and Weed Science majors. The enrollment of students in H/F is stable and the number of students selecting this major may increase as segments of this varied industry grow. The department recently started offering scholarships to incoming freshmen as a recruitment tool. We need to continue or expand these offerings, as well as initiate other innovative activities to meet the demand for PS graduates.
c. Education of Non-Ag Students
As the number of students with farm backgrounds decrease, the department must enrich the education of non-agricultural students who will play a role in forming policies that affect crop production and agriculture in general. The PS Department is responsible for teaching genetics to the entire University community. This need will increase as "biotechnology" activities continue to increase and affect the daily lives of the world population. Plant sciences faculty are involved in several interdisciplinary undergraduate programs, including Biotechnology and Plant Protection. Opportunities exist for PS involvement in the Food Science program as well as the Natural Resources Management program. The PLSC 110 course "World Food Crops" and PLSC 311 "Genetics" were approved as general education courses in the science and technology and global perspectives categories. These classes provide an opportunity for non-ag students to learn about the science of food production, food systems, natural resources, the global community and genetics.
An important link between urban students and agriculture is provided by horticulture classes, which introduce agriculture-related issues through principles taught regarding garden culture. Other PS courses have been submitted for approval as general education courses in various categories. The PS faculty, along with other agriculture faculty, must continue to increase their role in the development and teaching of university multidisciplinary courses integrating agriculture with non-Ag disciplines.
d. Plant Sciences Teaching Faculty
The department is a large diverse department with regional, national, and world-respected expertise in many areas. Thus, to interact with students, most faculty have a small teaching component. Only one faculty in the department has a 100% teaching appointment. The faculty believe that maintaining this arrangement is beneficial, since teaching, research, and extension are synergistic activities that enhance the learning process.
Action Plan/Timing
Survey alumni and their employers to refine the departments' curriculum. Timing: Implemented and ongoing.
In order to increase the number of undergraduate majors in the department to satisfy employment opportunities, the faculty will evaluate and use various recruitment tools, such as offering scholarships to incoming freshmen. Timing: Ongoing.
The department will identify appropriate courses for approval as general education courses in the University community. Timing: Ongoing.
A full-time teaching assistant is needed to aid faculty in course improvement and development. Timing: July 1999.
The department will increase its role in integrating agriculture with non-Ag disciplines in multidisciplinary courses. Timing: Ongoing.
The department will continue to evaluate its curriculum to minimize potential areas of duplication. Timing: Ongoing.
Articulation agreements between the College of Agriculture and several NDUS institutions (Dickinson, Williston, and Bismarck) allow ease of transfer to the department by undergraduates. Efforts to allow students to achieve their educational goals in the NDUS system by developing articulation guidelines will benefit the department, the college, and the university. Timing: 1998.
The faculty are encouraged to explore and implement new teaching methodologies in their classes, as appropriate, to maximize the educational opportunities of students. Timing: Ongoing.
2. Graduate Teaching
The department maintains a very strong graduate program with an enrollment of 40 or more full-time, active students. The faculty are qualified and current. All have Ph.D. degrees, are active in research, and publish in refereed journals on a regular basis.
The goals and objectives of the graduate program in the department support the teaching, research, and extension mission of the university. The mission of the department is to teach basic information about plant science to students at all levels, in all programs, at a level equal to or better than what they would receive at any Land Grant University, of comparable scope, in the United States. The student is taught to utilize the knowledge obtained during graduate study in some practical way in highly capital and power-oriented production agriculture or in agribusiness and/or to use and expand the knowledge of science in research, teaching, or service.
Action Plan/Timing
The department will actively recruit highly qualified graduate students. Timing: Ongoing.
The department will evaluate and modify as needed the seminar program to expose graduate students to other areas of research via invited speakers; attending seminars presented in other departments on campus also is encouraged. Timing: Ongoing.
Graduate stipends need to be monitored closely in order to remain competitive with other departments in the region. Timing: Ongoing.
The chair will continue meeting with recently completed and departing students. These discussions provide valuable information on strengths and weaknesses in the department and the student's program. Timing: Ongoing.
The chair is encouraged to solicit information from employers to identify their expectations of the former student and their perception of the student's abilities. Timing: Ongoing.
Graduate students are encouraged to interact with faculty in the College of Agriculture that differ in their areas of expertise (eg., weed science students working 3-5 days in the Plant Pathology Diagnostic Lab). This improves the job prospects of our students. Timing: Ongoing.
The global relevance of course content will be emphasized as instructors demonstrate how principles derived from case studies and examples from the Northern Plains apply to production practices in other environments. Timing: Ongoing.
B. Research Programs
1. Plant Breeding-Genetics and Biotechnology
The Department of Plant Sciences has a strong emphasis in plant breeding research programs for the economically important plant species grown in the state. The department is known nationally and internationally for its excellent plant breeding-genetics programs. Eleven plant breeding programs are currently housed in the department (HRS wheat, durum wheat, six-rowed barley, two-rowed barley, flax, oat, soybean, potato, corn, dry edible bean, and canola/crambe). Additionally, USDA/ARS scientists at Fargo, ND have breeding/genetics programs on sunflower and sugarbeet and work collaboratively with NDSU scientists.
The combination of environmental factors such as soil type, weather, pests, and agronomic practices are unique to production areas in North Dakota and requires the organization of breeding programs to deal with the production problems while improving crop quality. Expanding scientific knowledge and enhancing the diversity of genetic resources in each crop species make it necessary to form breeding programs to integrate different disciplines so that each program is effective. 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 time commitments and expertise necessary to monitor the introgression of these genes. However, new technologies are available and 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. Unadapted germplasm also may be used to correct agronomic and quality deficiencies 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 maize, barley, oat, and wheat have been used to locate genes on specific chromosomes and monitor their introgression into adapted germplasm.
The long-term goal of biotechnology is to provide new 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; and disease resistance in barley, dry bean, oat, and wheat.
Multidisciplinary teams 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 may 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 traditional and novel techniques to overcome the challenges.
A sustained genetic improvement of agronomic and quality characteristics of a crop plant necessitates a long-term commitment to plant breeding-genetics and biotechnology research. Because of the long time period (10-12 years) necessary to develop, test, and initiate the seed increase phases of an improved cultivar or hybrid release that is adapted to the North Dakota environment, continuity of these efforts is essential.
The 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/Extension Centers and other agencies in North Dakota, other states, and countries;, and developing and evaluating improved systems of seed increase.
Successes of the plant breeding-genetics and biotechnology faculty are many; highlights are provided in the Appendix.
Economic Impact
Breeding efforts on small grain crops (all wheat, barley, and oat) are critically important to the state and region. These crops are planted on a total of more than 16.2 million acres in North Dakota, with a five-year average value exceeding $1.07 billion annually. Breeding efforts on row crops (corn, soybean, potato, sunflower, and dry edible bean) and oilseed crops (flax, canola, and crambe) also provide significant economic benefit to the state. These crops are grown on less acreage than small grains, approximately 3.6 million acres in North Dakota, yet have an average value of more than $0.6 billion annually.
Cultivars developed by NDSU scientists provide new wealth to the state and region each year superior cultivars are used. For example, NDSU-released hard red spring wheat 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, as it has in recent years, the genetic improvement of wheat adds $10 million per year to the state's economy. Also, when North Dakota soybean growers use the higher yielding NDSU cultivar Council (currently grown on 10% of the acreage), which has a three bu/A yield advantage than current cultivars, new wealth approaching $1.6 million annually is realized. NDSU-released potato cultivars are among the top four cultivars grown in 10 of the 11 major potato producing states and account for nearly 20% of the national potato acreage.
Efforts by breeders to improve yield, pest resistance, and quality of all crops will allow growers in this region to remain competitive on an international level. Cultivar development has been, and will continue to be, a major facet of competitive agricultural systems. Developing new cultivars, using both traditional and new technologies, to meet the needs of both current production systems and more integrated management systems is integral to a strong state agricultural economy.
Seed production in the NDFSP totals about 100,000 bushels annually of 65 varieties in 13 crops produced at the Agronomy Seed Farm at Casselton, Research/Extension Centers located at Carrington, Hettinger, Langdon, Minot, and Williston, and with "elite" seed growers. Sale of this seed produces approximately $1.0 million in revenue annually and provides seed to producers throughout the state for production of certified seed for sale throughout the U.S. and Canada. In addition, approximately 300,000 lb. of dry bean seed worth $180,000 is produced in low disease infection areas located in CO, ID, WA, and WY under contracts with universities or private seed companies for sale to North Dakota seed producers.
Action Plan/Timing
As identified, maintaining continuity of the spring wheat breeding program is a critical priority of the department. Timing: Ongoing.
Maintain and enhance current programs in plant breeding and genetics that are vital to the state's economy. Evaluating needs for potentially important new crops is necessary. Timing: Ongoing.
Enhancement of the NDFSP will help North Dakota farmers remain competitive nationally and internationally. Timing: Ongoing.
Cooperative research programs at the NDSU Res./Ext. Centers are essential to develop crop cultivars adapted to the diverse production areas in the state. These cooperative efforts must be continued and enhanced in an efficient manner. Timing: Ongoing.
Expanded and continued support for interdepartmental cooperative research teams is necessary to develop genetic solutions to production problems. Timing: Ongoing.
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 both crop and rangeland production, reduce aesthetics of infested areas, and cause detrimental effects on human and animal health. Herbicides have been an exceptional tool for weed control and will continue to be used for the foreseeable future. However, weed resistance to herbicides and the public concern about pesticide usage indicate the need for development of alternate weed management systems for continued cost-efficient crop production.
Programs that implement a variety of methods to control weeds will be needed to meet the future requirements of both producers and end users. An understanding of weed biology will lead to better implementation of non-chemical control programs such as biocontrol, will maximize herbicide effectiveness, and will reduce the potential for weed resistance. Information on basic biology of weed seed production and germination, biocontrol using both insects and diseases, and weed-crop-tillage interactions will lead to integrated management approaches that reduce reliance on herbicides. Integrated control research requires greater input of public funds than does research with pesticides as these types of programs do not attract funding from the private sector.
Successes of the weed science groups are numerous; highlights are listed in the Appendix.
Economic Impact
The importance of weed control to North Dakota is best exemplified by the fact that over 28.8 million acres were treated with herbicides in 1992. Herbicide treatments represented 93% of all pesticide treated acres. A conservative assumption of a $10 per acre average cost for herbicide plus application represents a $270 million direct cost to growers yearly. The direct losses and secondary losses in crop production from uncontrolled weeds in North Dakota are estimated to be greater than $1.2 billion annually. Not all fields with weeds are treated and not all weeds are controlled by treatment thus, even small additional improvements in weed control efficacy will have a large benefit to the state.
Leafy spurge infestations reduce net ranch income by nearly $26.8 million annually because of reduced carrying capacity for livestock and decreased forage production. Direct and secondary impact of leafy spurge on both cattle production and wildlife habitats was estimated to cost North Dakota $87 million annually. Much of the infestation occurs on land where traditional herbicide control programs are either cost-prohibitive or impractical.
A recent extension survey indicated that weeds were the most important pest problem to growers (63%) in the state and were second in importance only to improved crop varieties. Even respondents who indicated they get the majority of their income from livestock production identified weed control as the second most important program for them at NDSU, following the introduction of new crop varieties. Weeds were listed by dry bean, sunflower, and sugarbeet growers as the production problem that caused the greatest loss of profit. Weeds were listed as the worst production problem 2.5 to 6 times more frequently than insects or plant diseases.
Demand for increased weed science instruction on campus and teaching in extension programs continues to grow. The group presently has solid teaching programs in general weed science, herbicide usage and physiology, and laboratory methods for weed research. However, the teaching program should be expanded to include weed biology (no longer taught since the conversion to the semester system), weed ecology (to address site specific weed control), and molecular biology and weed genetics (to address herbicide resistant crops and weeds).
The weed science group at NDSU functions with 50 and 60% less FTE's than the other crop protection disciplines of entomology and plant pathology, respectively. The demand for extension publications, meetings, and direct information requests in weed science exceeds any other discipline. With the ever increasing weed control needs of our clientele, it is vital that research and teaching continue to improve weed control, to reduce the cost for control, and thus increase profits for North Dakota growers.
Action Plan/Timing
Fill the position left vacant with the departure of Dr. Ahrens. This position should be modified to include research in weed biology and weed resistance as well as reduced tillage and precision agriculture. Timing: Immediately.
Replace Dr. Nalewaja when he retires (planned for summer 1998) with a person to conduct basic and applied research similar to the present project. A need for research in weed biology exists. An important tool in a successful integrated control program is the knowledge of a specific plants biology in order to identify a weak point in the growing cycle. Initially, the position would concentrate on projects similar to existing research, but the position could be changed to more basic aspects of weed biology when a new extension/research position is added. The new extension position would then be responsible for the applied weed control research. Timing: Achieved by 1998.
A new position in extension and applied research involving small grains, flax, sunflower, safflower, pulse crops, mustard crops, and minor crops should be created. The weed control extension specialist position is probably the most visible of all specialists in the state. Since 93% of all pesticides used in the state are herbicides, it follows that a majority of the questions concerning pesticide use deal with weed control. To meet the current requests from clientele the extension weed science project requires another person. When the new position is filled, Dr. Zollinger will be responsible for corn, soybean, drybean, potato, and carrot extension weed programs. Timing: Achieved by 1999.
Dr. Messersmith's research responsibility will be shifted away from his present perennial weed control research assignment to herbicide application technology. Herbicide application technology is an important and complex area. Dr. Messersmith's teaching responsibilities will limit his efforts so his research will be cooperative within the experiment station. Timing 1997-1998.
A new position in biocontrol of weeds has been requested by our clientele. Farmers and land managers in North Dakota need to better understand biocontrol of weeds to properly utilize the biocontrol agents available. The general public is very interested in biocontrol as a means of reducing pesticide use and federal agencies have responded to this interest by increasing funding for biocontrol. Weed scientists are well trained in general agronomy and in conjunction with plant pathologists and entomologists, are in the best position to incorporate a weed biocontrol program into today's agricultural systems.
Formal linkages in the department to address weed control in potato and carrots are in progress and need to be further developed. Ongoing.
All weed-related projects need to emphasize reduced herbicide use while maintaining or improving weed control efficacy and cost-effectiveness. This can be done using adjuvants, integrating programs focusing on tillage and crop rotation, establishing weed thresholds, improving mechanical weeding, improving application methods, and development of biological control systems. Timing: Ongoing.
North Dakota has been a recognized leader for weed science research since the 1890s. This effort should be enhanced and a Center of Excellence for the region established. Examples of ongoing regional cooperative projects include sugarbeet weed control and the leafy spurge control project. Timing: 1998 and beyond (must be led by Administration).
3. Crop Production and Physiology
Crop production scientists are responsible for several diverse, yet important, programs, including evaluating management techniques and alternative uses of forage species, evaluating minor and new, potentially useful crops for the region, and determining optimum production practices for traditional and alternative crops. Successes have been demonstrated in each of these research areas.
Much of the research conducted by crop production scientists is in direct response to concerns by producers and their problems. Examples include developing numerous improved management practices for forages, alternative crops, and other crops, especially winter wheat and sunflower; showing the potential for alternative utilization of current crops as biofuels; and identifying several alternative crops with industrial, pharmaceutical, and food use. Initial research with sunflower, dry bean, soybean, field pea, canola, and crambe production were conducted by new/alternate crops projects. These have since become economically important to the state. The department is cooperating with other departments at NDSU and other universities in the region to determine increased utilization of these alternative crops.
Crop physiologists study biochemical/physiological traits (molecular, cellular, plant) 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-environment-cropping system combinations. The more recent biotechnological tools have augmented and expanded each of these goals. 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 many associated areas that include plant pathology and soils.
Economic Impact
In addition to the importance of small grain and row crops discussed in previous sections, North Dakota also produces about 1.3 million acres of alfalfa, more than 100,000 acres of field pea, and 1.6 million acres of "other" hays. All hay ranks fourth among the most valuable crops produced in the state. In addition, about 500,000 acres of tame grass pasture add value to grazing livestock. Although the acreage of several alternative crops, including amaranth, borage, camelina, fenugreek, caraway, and coriander presently is small, they do provide additional crop options for ND producers. Minor crops like millet, buckwheat, winter rye, lentil, and safflower play an important role in the economy of the region in which these crops are adapted.
Adoption of improved forage management practices would increase alfalfa and tamegrass productivity, which would increase livestock carrying capacity and/or would reduce the required forage acreage and makes more acres available for alternative uses. Adoption of improved management practices for selected other crops, such as winter wheat and sunflower, will improve production efficiency and allow North Dakota to become a low-cost producer of these crops compared with other production areas. Both the identification of adapted cultivars for alternative crops and the development of appropriate production practices for these crops are imperative if crop options for our producers are to be realized. Although difficult to place a dollar value on these benefits, the actual economic benefits are undeniable.
Research in crop physiology has frequently been conducted to help explain findings and solve problems, or to expand knowledge and understanding, as discussed above. The explanation of findings and solving problems are important parts of the science of production agriculture; the knowledge and understanding are necessary to drive applied research that follows. Continued improvements in plant breeding, crop management, and crop efficiency are dependent on conducting appropriate crop physiology research.
Action Plan/Timing
Research in improved cropping systems, including sustainable agricultural systems, needs to be addressed by the department. This research would interact to a great degree with activities at the Main Station and Research/Extension Centers. Timing: July 1998.
Research on sunflower, minor, and new crops production remains an important function to the department. This position, which is currently vacant, has evaluated many crops, some of which have become very important to the state's economy. Research on sunflower production complements both USDA germplasm improvement efforts and breeding efforts of commercial companies. While sunflower is an established crop in north Dakota, continued efforts in production research are needed, allowing our growers to remain competitive on a global level. Timing: ASAP.
4. Horticulture and Forestry
Research programs in horticulture deal with culture and production of plant species that, either because of scale or special need, require more intensive management than other field crops. This includes fruits, vegetables, ornamentals, and small-scale tree plantings. Research by the forestry component has focused on establishment and maintenance of windbreaks and urban forestry. The Horticulture and Forestry faculty underwent significant downsizing in the period of 1985-1992 as the number of retirements and resignations could not be matched by replacement faculty. As a result, the scope of research programs and the number of courses offered have been reduced, and, in 1994, the Department of Horticulture and Forestry merged with the Department of Crop and Weed Sciences, forming the Department of Plant Sciences. Strong research programs remain in the areas of potato breeding and physiology, woody plant evaluation and introduction, and plant biotechnology. Smaller research programs exist for vegetables and turfgrass.
Economic Impact
Because of its unique environment, North Dakota is a valuable testing site for hardiness of woody plants, ornamentals, and turfgrass. Research in these areas has benefitted homeowners and the horticulture industry over the entire Great Plains region. More than 150 genera of woody plants have been evaluated, and NDSU released many cultivars of ornamental shrubs and trees that are widely grown in the upper Midwest. There is an emerging vegetable industry in the state that may have substantial economic impact in the future. As America's pattern for production and distribution of produce continues to change, a window of opportunity exists for North Dakota to become an important supplier of fresh and processed vegetable products in regional and national markets.
There is excellent potential to apply plant biotechnology to horticultural crops. Current projects include genetic engineering for disease and insect resistance in potato and woody plants, herbicide resistance in Siberian elm, shade tolerance in turfgrass, and selection of somaclonal variants in ornamentals. Traditional propagation techniques as well as micropropagation are under investigation to enhance marketability of new woody plant introductions.
Trees are planted for field windbreaks to protect crops, livestock, farmsteads, and communities. Tree plantings assist rural landowners and urban homeowners to reduce heating/cooling costs from 20 to 40%. Trees may improve water quality by acting as filterstrips along streams and drainage areas, and also act as living snow fences along roadways, thereby providing wildlife habitats and fuelwood as secondary benefits to society.
Action Plan/Timing
Continue developing the facilities at the Horticulture Research Farm and Arboretum at Absaraka, ND by improving drainage and irrigation capabilities, and increasing the area for plot research. A deer exclusion fence was erected in 1995. Timing: Ongoing.
Expand and enhance vegetable research and extension for the small, but growing, vegetable industry. Timing: July 1998
C. Extension Programs
Extension educational programs rely on the research results obtained by NDSU Agricultural Experiment Station (NDAES) and USDA/ARS scientists at the main station in Fargo and across the state at Research/Extension Centers. NDSU Experiment Station scientists generate new technology, informative data, cultivars, and production recommendations needed by North Dakota producers to be successful, profitable, and sustainable in their farming systems. Extension specialists in Plant Sciences have a responsibility to facilitate technology transfer of research-based knowledge and the continued education of all clients.
Extension specialists' major role is to develop educational programs requested by individual county offices, by multi-county programming units, and by commodity groups. This may require developing teaching aids (publications, video programs, slide sets, posters, newsletters) and educating county agents and/or multi-county specialists and area extension specialists. The education program is focuses on the needs of the producer and is flexible to meet their ever-changing needs.
These educational programs are most successful when specialists from all the departments work together and develop meaningful programs. Programs to introduce new cultivars, effective cultural practices, efficient weed control strategies, and improved turf and ornamental management strategies have been successful. Communication to most homes in North Dakota and adjacent states is achieved through dissemination of weekly gardening columns in local newspapers. Similar information on tree care and maintenance and forests is provided through newspaper and radio releases. The process goes smoothly when plant scientists and extension specialists have a good understanding of the needs of their clientele.
Coordination and leadership of the NDSU pesticide applicator training and certification program is critical to serving the citizens of North Dakota by providing the training needs of commercial and private applicators, and protecting the pubic interest by requiring demonstration of competency by examination of individuals wishing to be certified.
Action Plan/Timing
Network and maintain contact to improve communications with crop commodity organizations and plant industry groups in North Dakota. Continue to work closely with producer groups, write articles for commodity newsletters, and provide educational programs and services as requested. Identify faculty members in PS to be the liaison representative to crop organizations and groups. Timing: Ongoing.
Deliver relevant technical information and educational aids to clientele rapidly and efficiently by increased use of telecommunications (IVN, Prairie Public Television, DTN, and computer-mediated telecommunications) via WWW-Internet sites. Timing: ASAP
Cooperate and coordinate with other NDSU departments, Research/Extension Centers, USDA/ARS, and state agencies on Extension program planning, development, and delivery. Utilize interdisciplinary teams to plan and deliver Extension programs. Encourage and reward Extension faculty who work and cooperate with other agencies and groups in Extension program efforts. Offer in-service training to county staff, Research/Extension Center staff, and other agencies and groups in the state. Improve communications and cooperation with agronomists located at Research/Extension Centers. Timing: Ongoing.
Maintain and increase the extension staffing component and scope in PS. Review descriptions on all new positions to determine adequate joint appointments of research, teaching, and extension as needed by the department and/or individuals. Timing: Ongoing.
Continue to organize crop research information database and coordinate easy access for end-users. Build complete databases on crop variety performances (statewide), weed control research, and cropping systems research. Develop and refine user-friendly software to allow easy access of information, such as Pro-Crop, Weather, and WeedPro. Timing: Ongoing.
Cooperate and develop linkages with adjacent states on Extension delivery and support. Continue joint appointments with Minnesota for Extension Specialists on sugarbeet and potato. Explore the possibility of sharing Extension Specialists (ND-MN) in other areas, including weed control, row crops (corn, dry bean, soybean, sunflower), and forage crops. Timing: 1998.
Identify crop research needs by consultation with producers, county agents, and others to build a support network for both applied and basic crops research. Extension will work closely with commodity group research committees to identify research issues that need to be addressed by the North Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station. Extension faculty will continue to conduct applied research/demonstration with farmers on new applications of technology. Extension faculty will attend advisory or visitors' board meetings of the Research/Extension Centers. Extension will use its statewide media network to promote success stories on PS research that benefits both producers and the general public. Timing: Ongoing.
Research and extension needs for agroforestry and urban horticulture and forestry shall be sought through consultations with county agents, consumer groups, nursery, turf, and soil conservation associations, state and city foresters, and feedback through telephone and electronic media. Timing: 1998.
VI. PROMOTING THE DEPARTMENT
The goal is to increase the visibility of the department locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally.
Action Plan/Timing
Increase the awareness of the public on the importance of plant agriculture to solve world shortages of food, feed, fiber, and fuel using traditional and new media delivery technology. Timing: Ongoing.
Enhance departmental/industry partnerships through consulting and interactive programs involving interns, cooperative study, and advisory groups. Timing: Ongoing.
Educate, in formal and informal settings, all who would be interested (and to instill an interest) in plant sciences. Timing: Ongoing.
Conduct research with industry, USDA-ARS, and individual cooperators that leads to a sustainable and profitable plant agriculture into the next century. Timing: Ongoing.
Continue traditional "result-demonstration" techniques that foster "hands-on" interactive learning. The Extension Outreach component will be linked closely with research and teaching via electronic communications. Timing: Ongoing.
Create, using new funds or redirection, a departmental information system that interacts directly with the media, to increase public awareness of the benefits of research-teaching-extension activities in plant agriculture. Timing: July, 1998
Encourage faculty activity in national professional associations. Timing: Ongoing.
When mutually beneficial, facilitate cooperative research and germplasm exchange programs to enhance our considerable interaction with scientists at other institutions in the state and regionally, nationally, and internationally. Timing: Ongoing.
Actively recruit graduate students by publishing departmental opportunities in professional newsletters. Timing: Ongoing
VII. FORCES THAT DRIVE CHANGE IN PLANT AGRICULTURE
Research in the Department of Plant Sciences has focused on plant breeding and genetics, weed science, biotechnology, crop production and physiology, and 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 department has a long and fruitful association with USDA scientists located at the Northern Crops Science Laboratory on the NDSU campus. Eleven 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 group, and industry may be established to solve problems of both organizations.
Action Plan/Timing
A. Research Capacity Maintenance and Enhancement
North Dakota has a diverse crop agriculture enterprise that generates approximately 84% of the total state gross agricultural product (approximately $3.4 billion annually). Equally unique to North Dakota is the fact that all major crops have research (breeding and production) attention by PS faculty. The current capacity to service this major industry is at the minimum level, less than $1500 state appropriated operating funds/project annually; to remain effective, increased funding to maintain efforts is the highest priority. Timing: Ongoing.
The department will actively support efforts to retain and replace 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. Timing: When needed.
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. Timing: Ongoing.
The department should explore future collaboration with programs at NDUS institutions to further educational and research commitments to the state. This may become essential if state support continues to decline. Timing: Ongoing.
The department 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. Timing: Ongoing.
The department encourages 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. Timing: Ongoing
B. Personal and Professional Reward
Developing and recognizing formal and informal cross-disciplinary research teams will continue when appropriate. Timing: Ongoing.
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. Timing: Ongoing.
C. Physical Facilities and Equipment
The department expanded its laboratory space since moving into Loftsgard Hall; however, the department lost four labs when the Biochemistry department was moved into Loftsgard Hall. Plant Sciences faculty have had to adjust to diminished space and the assignment of space is not equitable. The department encourages Administration to reunite the Biochemistry department in their own facilities and return Loftsgard Hall to be used by the Plant Sciences department as intended. Timing: ASAP.
Additional laboratory equipment to fully utilize new technologies should be purchased by the projects involved with state funding. Group purchases are encouraged. Timing: Ongoing.
The condition of research equipment for most projects ranges from good to very poor and varies considerably among projects. Much of the variability in 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 abrogates its responsibilities. Timing: ASAP.
Research land near the university is being threatened by commercial development. University Administration should acquire and develop land, for research purposes, of equal or better quality in exchange for land that may soon be developed. Administration also should remain aware that off-station facilities cost more for each project because of travel costs. Safety of workers must be considered, in that, increased travel distances and times may increase risk of accidents. Timing: July 1999.
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. Timing: ASAP.
The department should encourage NDSU Administration to identify and make available an irrigated research facility in the Fargo-Moorhead vicinity. Timing: 1999.
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. Timing: ASAP
VIII. PERSONNEL NEEDS TO ATTAIN ACTION PLANS
While the department is composed of highly trained, dedicated faculty that provide expertise in a broad array of disciplines, the department recognizes deficiencies in areas that would require additional personnel and/or redirection of current faculty. The following nonprioritized list identifies future personnel requirements for specific action plans. This list is a guide for future planning, assuming the needs of the core critical positions are met. When new positions are added, they should be funded adequately with equipment, a technician, and operating funds and not dilute other projects in the Department.
Section page Request
IV. 4 We anticipate filling vacancies as they arise following review by the Department Chair and a department committee. Positions currently sought are a weed scientist and a production agronomist to work in the area of minor and new crops and sunflower production.
V.A. 6 A full-time teaching assistant is needed to aid faculty in course improvement and development.
V.B.2. 11 State funded support staff positions for the oat and soybean breeding programs are needed.
V.B.2. 13 A new extension and applied weed science position is needed to work on weed control in traditional and emerging crops. This new position would reduce the workload of the existing extension weed scientist.
V.B.2. 13 An additional weed scientist is needed to enhance the overall weed science research and teaching programs, with research concentrating on biocontrol of weeds.