Mark Renz: New Perennial Systems Weed Scientist

Chris Boerboom, Ext. Weed Scientist

Tuesday, May 16, 2006

The Agronomy Department is excited to announce that Dr. Mark Renz will be joining the Department this August as our new Extension Weed Scientist.  Mark will be filling Jerry Doll’s position, which has been slightly re-focused.  In particular, the position will focus on managing invasive and problematic weeds of forage crops, pasture, grasslands, and other perennial cropping systems.  The position is 75% extension and 25% research with teaching responsibilities for the weed management class in the Farm and Industry Short Course program.  

Mark’s training and experience makes him highly qualified for this position (although he may need to adjust to Wisconsin’s winters).  Mark was born and raised in the Bay Area of California.  After receiving a BS in Botany at UC-Davis, Mark worked for Dow AgroSciences on developing new pesticides before returning to graduate school.  Back at UC-Davis, Mark studied the biology, ecology and management of perennial pepperweed for his Ph.D.  Mark is currently an extension weed scientist at New Mexico State University where he conducts research and extension on invasive weeds, weed biology, and weed management for crop production systems.  He also has responsibilities for New Mexico’s pesticide applicator training and IR-4 programs.   

Mark’s has special interest and experience in studying the root dynamics of perennial weeds, which affects the potential for successful management practices.  He would like to develop long term weed management plans that maximize effectiveness while minimizing costs.  Mark also has interests in integrating weed management with restoration/revegetation and increasing awareness and management of invasive/noxious weeds.

When Mark arrives in Madison, please give him a warm Wisconsin welcome.