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Celebrating Excellence in Weed Science: WSSA Awards 2026

The Weed Science Society of America (WSSA) recently concluded its annual meetings where two regional affiliates recognized nearly 20 individuals for their remarkable contributions to the field of weed science. This year's events were held in March, with the Southern Weed Science Society (SWSS) gathering in Nashville, Tennessee, and the Western Society of Weed Science (WSWS) convening in Tucson, Arizona. During these gatherings, various professionals from academia, government, and private sectors were celebrated for their outstanding achievements.

Dr. Ian Burke, the WSSA president, expressed the importance of recognizing these dedicated individuals. He stated, “Each year, our national and regional societies honor those who make significant contributions to advancing weed science research, management practices, and public understanding of invasive plants and weeds.” This acknowledgment not only highlights the role of these individuals in promoting weed science but also underscores their efforts in minimizing the detrimental impacts that invasive species can have on the environment, natural resources, and economy.

Southern Weed Science Society (SWSS) Awards

The SWSS honored several individuals with prestigious awards:

• - Fellow Award: Timothy Grey, Ph.D., from the University of Georgia.
• - Outstanding Young Weed Scientist – Academia: Nick Basinger, Ph.D., also from the University of Georgia.
• - Outstanding Young Weed Scientist – Industry: Eric Reasor, Ph.D., Southeast Research Scientist at PBI-Gordon Corporation.
• - Outstanding Graduate Student – M.S.: Juan Ramon Romero, Ph.D. candidate from Virginia Tech University.
• - Outstanding Graduate Student – Ph.D.: Pâmela Carvalho-Moore, Ph.D., University of Arkansas.
• - Outstanding Educator Award: Todd Baughman, Ph.D., from Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center.

These awards demonstrate the society's commitment to fostering talent and innovation within the field of weed science, encouraging the next generation of researchers and practitioners.

Western Society of Weed Science (WSWS) Awards

Similar to the SWSS, the WSWS also recognized exceptional individuals:

• - Fellow Award: Curtis Rainbolt, Ph.D., Technical Service Representative at BASF; Greg Dahl, Director of Adjuvant Education at the Council of Producers & Distributors of Agrotechnology, and former WSSA President.
• - Outstanding Weed Scientist – Early Career Public Sector: Eric Westra, Ph.D., Assistant Professor at Utah State University.
• - Outstanding Weed Scientist – Early Career Private Sector: Shannon Clark, Ph.D., Stewardship and Development Manager at Envu.
• - Outstanding Weed Scientist – Public Sector: Lisa Rew, Ph.D., Professor at Montana State University.
• - Outstanding Weed Scientist – Private Sector: Craig Alford, Ph.D., Global Biology Leader at Corteva Agriscience.
• - Professional Staff Award: David King, Faculty Research Assistant at Oregon State University.
• - Presidential Award of Merit: Ryan Rapp, Ph.D., Agronomic Solutions Manager at Bayer.
• - Weed Manager Award: Kelly Pruitt, Vegetation Stewardship Manager for the City of Boulder, Colorado.

Additionally, various scholarships were awarded, promoting diversity and inclusion in the field:

• - Elana Sanchez Scholarship Award: awarded to Greeshmanth Aluri and Renan Nasser Dalla Favera, both from Oregon State University, and Olanrewaju Adeyemi from Utah State University.
• - Diversity and Inclusion Committee Scholarship Award: awarded to Ethan Frager from Oregon State University.

Looking Ahead

The WSSA emphasizes the continued significance of research, education, and outreach in combatting the challenges posed by weeds and invasive plants. The organization supports initiatives that share science-based information with the public and policymakers, raising awareness about the ecological and economic impacts of weeds. Interested individuals can learn more about the society's activities and calendar of upcoming meetings by visiting their official website at wssa.net.

As the field of weed science evolves, these award winners exemplify the dedication and passion required to tackle the pressing issues surrounding invasive species and promote sustainable agricultural practices, paving the way for future advancements.