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The Crop and Weed Sciences (CWS) program in the Department of Plant Sciences focuses on cultivating grain and forage crops, weed management, genetics, plant breeding, crop physiology, and biotechnology. North Dakota leads the nation in producing hard red spring wheat, durum wheat, barley, flax, dry edible beans, canola, dry peas, lentils, and sunflowers. The state also ranks among the top 10 for growing oats, rye, sugarbeets, and grass hay, typically holding third place for total harvested crop acreage. Crop sales generate over 50% of North Dakota farmers' annual income, while crops used as livestock feed contribute significantly to earnings from animal sales. This makes North Dakota State University an ideal location for studying crop and weed sciences.
Weed Science Specialization This concentration highlights effective herbicide and agricultural chemical use, preparing students for careers in chemical sales, application, crop consulting (agronomy), and plant protection. While weed management is the primary focus, the curriculum also includes essential coursework in entomology, plant pathology, and soil science.