Weeding out the competition
In the realm of competitive judging, there is one team that tackles a major issue for every producer: weeds. For students interested in horticulture or crops, the Weeds Judging Team at The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES) is the place to be. But what does weeds judging involve? It’s a specialized agricultural competition where students identify weeds, assess agronomic situations, and develop management strategies right on the spot to control invasive plant species. Competitors must recognize various weed species at different growth stages, diagnose herbicide effects, and make agronomic recommendations based on real-world scenarios.
For students, weeds judging is more than just identifying plants; it’s about understanding weed ecology and herbicide applications that impact crop production. The competition provides practical crop science and agronomy skills, equipping students with the knowledge and experience to excel in their future careers. It also strengthens critical thinking, field observation, and decision-making skills, fostering a sense of preparedness and competence. The Weeds Judging Team teaches many essential skills for careers in agronomy, crop consulting, and agricultural research.
Cultivating weed science curiosity
Bruce Ackley, a CFAES horticulture and crop science lecturer and lab coordinator, has coached the team for nearly 20 years. Ackley is a fourth-generation Ohio farmer who grew up immersed in agriculture. His early years were spent in tractors and combines alongside his father, instilling a deep passion for farming. He initially planned to stay on the family farm when he graduated from high school, but his father encouraged him to pursue a college education. That path led him to Ohio State ATI on the CFAES Wooster campus and a transition to the Columbus campus, where he specialized in weed science and crop science. His academic success included graduate school, where he studied weed science and later took over coaching the Weeds Judging Team. Ackley’s practical background in production agriculture and education makes him an excellent coach.
Under Ackley’s leadership, the Weeds Judging Team has had many successes, including Top 3 finishes at national competitions and numerous individual winners. In the summer, the team participates in regional contests to sharpen their skills, alternating between the North Central Weed Science Society and the Northeastern Weed Science Society. Then, every four years, the team competes at the national Weed Olympics, where students from over 30 universities gather to test their knowledge in weed identification, herbicide application, and agronomic problem-solving. According to Ackley, the experience provides students with a unique opportunity to gauge their skills against peers, apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges, and network with professionals in the industry.
Travel, connections, and professional growth
Emily McCormick, a human resources major from Lancaster, Ohio, joined the team at Ackley’s encouragement. She saw it as a chance to challenge herself and expand her understanding of weed management. Her favorite aspect of the competition is the Farmer Problem, where students must apply their knowledge to practical scenarios and devise solutions for agricultural challenges on the spot.
“The best part about being on the team has been the opportunity to travel to new places, make new friends, and build lasting connections with teammates and industry professionals,” McCormick said. She believes the team has significantly improved her critical thinking and networking skills while opening doors for professional growth.
Betsy Cunningham became involved in the team through her student job in the Weed Science Lab. A graduate student from Powell, Ohio, in the Department of Horticulture and Crop Sciences, her favorite part of the team is the camaraderie, especially the post-contest gatherings where teammates reflect on their performance and bond over shared experiences.
“My involvement on the team has bettered my college experience. I have learned a lot about weeds and weed management from a practical standpoint rather than just in the classroom. I feel better prepared to tackle real-life situations with the experience I have gained from the weeds team,” Cunningham said.
All are welcome
Ackley emphasizes that the Weeds Judging Team is open to all undergraduate or grad students, regardless of major, through the course HCS 3488, a one-credit, pass/fail class that prepares students for competition. Funding for travel and competitions comes from department fundraising efforts, with faculty and alumni support helping sustain the program over the years.
Ultimately, Ackley aims to provide students with an educational and rewarding experience.
“I want things to be fun and educational. Our contests are over the summer, so I provide them with the resources, but ultimately, it’s up to the students to determine how well they want to do. I can’t make anyone study, but I provide resources and enthusiasm to do it.”
Ackley is passionate about his work and the students he coaches and teaches.
“For 20 years, I’ve never had a student come back and ask why they did this,” Ackley said. “I get Christmas cards from former weeds team members who have gone on to successful careers. Seeing their growth and success makes coaching one of the best choices I’ve ever made.”
