Jokes about weed science are not acceptable at customs. That is what Carol Mallory-Smith, an associate department head at Oregon State University’s department of crop and soil science, has learned during her travels.

Mallory-Smith has been involved with weed science internationally as well as within the OSU community.

“I always try to explain how important weeds are in everyone’s life,” Mallory-Smith said.

Recently, Professor Mallory-Smith received the Weed Science Society of America’s highest honor for her scientific contributions. …