Weed Science
Weed Science looks at one of the most important environmental issues in Montana. Weed science is the study of how unwanted plants grow, interact with other plants and animals, and respond to management. Through this project, develop knowledge and understanding of natural resource ecology and the interaction between nature, agriculture and recreation. Learn how to make a plant press, the science of weed control, various methods for controlling weeds, the impact of invasive plants, and how to monitor changes in the land. Study how weeds use different dispersal methods, learn why weeds are fierce competitors, and explore careers.
It may take three years to complete a level. You must complete a minimum of seven activities and five learning experiences each year to complete this project.
Projects to learn
At level 1 of weed science, students will learn
- to develop the basic understanding of invasive plants
- causes of their invasion
- economic and environmental impact of weeds
- weed identification
- methods of weed dispersal
- rangeland monitoring
- build a plant press and collect at least 25 weeds
At level 2 of weed science, students will learn
- broaden your understanding of how invasive plants impact the environment
- methods to control weeds and integrated weed management
- how land managers can prevent and control the spread of invasive plants
Independent study is for any youth looking for new challenges and opportunities in 4-H. This allows a member to explore topics that have not been investigated while remaining enrolled in a 4-H project. Members enrolling in the independent study phase of a project should
- develop a detailed learning plan for their work
- identify an area of interest within the project area
- set goals and locate resources (people, publications, materials) to carry out a project plan
- determine specific experiences needed to accomplish project goals,
- set a realistic timeline for completion
- carry out the project learning plan,
- share experiences with others
- evaluate outcomes and determine what could be improved.
PROJECT REQUIREMENTS
The individualized learning plan should be approved by a parent, 4-H adult volunteer leader or 4-H agent. For assistance in developing a personal learning contract, use Design Your Own project materials or other goal-setting materials. While independent study provides flexibility and creativity, it also requires serious planning, implementation and evaluation.
Materials you'll need
M Weed Science, Level 1, 5352
M Montana Noxious Weeds, EB0159
M You Decide, 5314
L Helping Them Decide, 5315
S Plant Identification Learning Kit (available at state 4-H Center for Youth Development)
Non-Animal Record Books
A Project/Financial Journal is needed for each non-animal related project. Project journals need to contain the name of the project, the year these records were kept, and a leader/parent signature. All sections of the journal need to be completed. If nothing was done in an area or section of a record sheet, the word “none” or something similar should be written.
Careers in Weed Science
If you are wanting to explore careers in weed science, below are some of the potential routes you can take. 4-H members interested in going to college can also visit the 4-H foundation website for scholarships in their county or reservation.
