UC Cooperative Extension

WeedChat: An AI-powered chatbot answers thorny questions

Mohsen Mesgaran, at the UC Davis Department of Plant Sciences, and team are developing a chatbot powered by artificial intelligence to help growers, backyard gardeners, landowners and others identify and treat weeds. The state Department of Food and Agriculture is funding the project with a grant of nearly $430,000. The development is expected to take two years.

Steam: Sustainable management for weeds, soil pests

Steam treatment offers growers a chemical-free way to control weeds and soil-borne diseases, benefiting both crops and farmworkers. UC Davis research in Salinas shows it boosts yields while preserving soil health, making it a promising tool for organic farming.

UC ANR names Roche “outstanding” academic

Leslie Roche has received the Outstanding New Academic Award from University of California Agricultural and Natural Resources. Roche is an associate professor of Cooperative Extension, based in the Department of Plant Sciences. Her research looks at the agricultural, environmental and social aspects of ranching and livestock production.

Linquist named SSSA fellow

UC Davis agronomist Bruce Linquist was named a 2024 Soil Science Society of America Fellow for his leadership in sustainable rice farming. His research on reducing tillage and water use helps farmers cut costs while improving soil health.

Miller Award supports careers in Cooperative Extension

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.