Researchers at UC Davis are testing electric weed control as an alternative for organic farms. The system zaps weeds at the root, offering a potential low-chemical, cost-effective solution while preserving soil health.
Graduate Student Research awardee Leslie Roche used her support to explore grazing and conservation, laying the foundation for UC Rangelands. Her work informs federal policy and supports both ranchers and threatened species.
Graduate Student Research funding gave Mark Lundy the flexibility to pursue applied, industry-relevant agronomy. Now a UCCE associate professor, he leads efficient farming research and trains future agronomists at UC Davis.
Betsy Karle, now a UCCE dairy advisor and county director, used her UC Davis GSR award to conduct real-world research balancing grazing and water quality. The experience launched her career in improving dairy sustainability statewide.
Brad Hanson, UC Davis Cooperative Extension weed scientist, was named a fellow of the Western Society of Weed Science, its highest honor, recognizing his research, outreach, and leadership in solving agricultural weed issues.
Jorge Dubcovsky of UC Davis was awarded the Frank N. Meyer Medal for his pioneering work on wheat genetics, including the development of germplasm and wheat varieties that improve yield, nutrition, and climate resilience.
Giulia Marino, UC Davis' new Presidential Chair for Tree Nut Genetics, is developing resilient pistachio varieties to help farmers cope with warmer winters, water shortages, and rising costs, enhancing the state's $5-billion industry.
UC Davis hosted the first Industrial Hemp Field Day, showcasing research on pest management, water and nitrogen use, and breeding for disease resistance. The event, attended by 80-100 growers, addressed challenges in legal hemp cultivation.
UC Davis ecologist Derek Young is leading the Open Forest Observatory project, combining drone photography, machine learning, and big data to map and manage forests. This $1M NSF-funded initiative aims to enhance forest recovery from wildfire, drought, and disease.
A study found that undergraduate students taking an online climate change course traded slightly lower grades for the flexibility of online scheduling. Women, humanities majors, and seniors were likelier to choose online learning.
