Four students connected to the UC Davis Department of Plant Science have received grants from the Milton D. and Mary M. Miller Plant Science Award, which supports learners interested in careers with Cooperative Extension. The 2024 awardees are Maya Shydlowski, Erika Escalona, Sam Dudley and Ben Baldi. All four students said they are eager to share what they are learning with people in the field who need solutions for everyday problems.
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.
New UC Cooperative Extension specialist Justin Valliere will expand invasion and restoration ecology efforts, focusing on native plant recovery, climate stress, and community engagement—especially involving youth in stewardship.
Jennifer Baumbach used her GSR award to support research on water-wise landscaping, which she now applies in her role leading the Master Gardener Program in Solano and Yolo counties, turning science into practical gardening solutions.
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.
Whitney Brim-DeForest, UCCE rice and wild rice advisor, used her GSR award to research weed management in rice. Her graduate training built strong grower ties and skills now guiding her work in California’s top rice-growing region.
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.
Grace Woodmansee used her GSR award to strengthen her research and outreach skills, preparing her for a career as a UCCE advisor. Her drought-focused work with ranchers now helps support resilient rangeland management in California.
Grant Johnson’s GSR award helped launch his UC Cooperative Extension career in urban ag tech. It supported his research on nursery runoff and gave him skills he now uses to improve irrigation, fertilization, and water reuse.
