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Jill Alms, an agricultural research manager and specialist, has been named South Dakota State University’s Civil Service Employee of the Month for December.

She will be honored at a reception held at 11:15 a.m. Friday, Dec. 19, in Berg Hall 238.

Alms has worked at the university for 19 years. She received both her bachelor’s degree in animal science and her master’s degree in plant science from SDSU.

Alms helps conduct over 70 greenhouse, laboratory, field and survey projects encompassing weed management each year. Her tasks include planting and maintenance of field plots, record keeping and compiling data from these research projects so the information can be distributed to South Dakota farmers to improve their weed management plans.

Alms also co-authors peer-reviewed publications (five since 2024), abstract proceedings (18 since 2023), extension newsletters (75 since 2023), fact sheets (11 since 2023), row crop pest management guides (10 since 2023), and pasture and rangeland weed management guides (two since 2024).

These publications provide South Dakota and regional farmers with valuable information on weed management and how to improve current management efforts.

“Since Jill started in 2006, I am almost certain that the contributions are well over several hundred extension publications,” said Eric Jones, assistant professor in the Department of Agronomy, Horticulture and Plant Science and extension weed management specialist.

Nominator Connie Tande, SDSU Extension plant diagnostician, called Alms a key part of weed control field research but said she is also willing to help in other areas when needed.

“Jill is always ready to take on the next task to ensure that all things are completed accurately and on time. She is always ready for the next project. She is a team player offering assistance and solutions to complete projects accurately,” Tande said.

“Her ability to balance the day-to-day projects and unexpected problems helps to keep processes running smooth. She communicates well, helping to resolve problems quickly and efficiently, which contributes greatly to the overall success of the project,” Tande added.

Jones, who has been Alms’ supervisor since 2023, called her an exceptional worker and researcher.

“I worked closely with Jill during the beginning of my role to understand how the field research program operated but learned quickly that she is very competent and understood how to conduct flawless research,” Jones said. “While previously the field research program was very applied, Jill has adapted effortlessly to conduct more basic research on weed science.

“Jill has contributed to the success of extension weed science program and the university. Her dedication and performance in her current role embody exactly what it means to be outstanding,” he added.

Alms also puts in effort in other areas, stepping up to help at various football and basketball games with tasks such as ticket entry, answering questions and giving directions.

“Knowing Jill for as long as I have, she always amazes me with what she can and does accomplish,” Tande added. “Jill is a very focused, hardworking individual. When she takes on a project, she will give it 110% every time. Jill has been and continues to be a valuable employee here at SDSU.”

Alms grew up on a farm near Walnut Grove, Minnesota. She is a member of both the North Central Weed Science Society and the Western Society of Weed Science.

All SDSU Employee of the Month selections are determined through a nomination process by the Civil Service Advisory Council. Each civil service employee of the month receives an appreciation monetary gift from the F.O. Butler Foundation. The trustees of the foundation recognize the importance of civil service employees and take this opportunity to thank them for their exemplary service.