Open Top Chambers (OTCs): A Tool for Studying Weed Emergence in Future Climates
Research Poster Health & Life Sciences 2025 Graduate ExhibitionPresentation by Nasib Koirala
Exhibition Number 215
Abstract
Open Top Chambers (OTCs) serve as a valuable tool for studying the effects of futuristic conditions on plant biology and ecology. These chambers passively increase air and soil temperatures, offering a cost-effective solution for long-term research. We used OTCs as a tool to investigate changes in the emergence timing of six common agricultural weeds in central PA. Understanding weed emergence is critical for effective and timely weed management. The experiment used a randomized complete block design with two treatments: control (ambient conditions) and warming (OTC plots), replicated four times. In late December 2022 and 2023, 300 seeds of each weed species were sown per 1m² plot, and emergence was counted the following year. Soil temperature and volumetric water content (VWC) at 3 cm depth were monitored from January to September (VWC was only recorded for 2024). OTCs increased average soil temperatures by 0.47°C in 2023 and 0.36°C in 2024. VWC averaged 0.165 m³/m³ in control plots and 0.188 m³/m³ in OTC plots. Emergence timing varied across species and years. The observed temperature increases align with near-future climate predictions (10-30 years). The Northeastern U.S. is also expected to receive more precipitation in the future. Thus, OTCs demonstrate potential for studying weed emergence under futuristic conditions. We recommend further collaborative research in the Northeast to better predict future weed emergence.
Importance
Weeds compete with crops, reducing yields and increasing farming costs. Climate change is expected to shift weed emergence patterns, making management more challenging. This study uses Open Top Chambers (OTCs) –simple structures that simulate warmer temperatures and increased soil moisture– to explore how future climates may affect weed emergence timing. Focusing on six common agricultural weeds in the Northeastern U.S., this research provides insights to help farmers adapt weed control strategies. The findings could improve crop productivity, reduce herbicide use, and lower farming costs, benefiting both farmers and the environment. This work underscores the need to prepare for climate-driven changes in agriculture.
DEI Statement
My research examines how climate change affects weed emergence, a critical issue for agricultural sustainability. Focusing on the Northeastern U.S., home to diverse farming communities, including small-scale and underserved farmers, this work addresses equity in access to adaptive weed management strategies. Climate change disproportionately impacts marginalized farmers who lack resources to adapt. By developing affordable and accessible solutions, this research supports scientists and extension personnel in creating inclusive strategies for all farmers. It also highlights the importance of addressing challenges faced by diverse agricultural systems. Integrating DEI principles, this project promotes equitable and sustainable farming practices, ensuring climate adaptation benefits underserved populations and fosters a more just agricultural future.