NDSU Department of Plant Sciences graduate student Travis Carter was awarded second place for his paper in the Student Paper and Poster Contest at the Western Society of Weed Science annual meeting held in Albuquerque, New Mexico, March 13-16. Carter co-wrote the paper, "Prairie Response to Canada Thistle Infestation," with his adviser Rodney Lym, professor of plant sciences and leader of the perennial weed control project.

The contest offers students an opportunity to improve their presentation skills and increase their visibility within the organization. Judging criteria for the paper contest included content and discussion of the research being presented, quality of visual aids and speaking ability. The top students in each division received a plaque and a cash award to honor their achievement.

Carter, from Elk Point, South Dakota, is pursuing his master's degree in natural resources management.

As a student-focused, land-grant, research university, we serve our citizens.