W. J. (William James) Beal
Seeds of Michigan Weeds
"Seeds of Michigan Weeds" by W. J. Beal is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This bulletin from the Michigan State Agricultural College serves as a detailed guide to identifying and understanding the various weed seeds found in Michigan. It aims to benefit farmers, students, and all individuals interested in agriculture by providing accurate illustrations and descriptions of weed seeds. The opening of the work sets the stage for a thorough examination of the impact of weeds on agriculture, outlining both their disadvantages, such as competition for nutrients and damage to crops, and their occasional benefits in promoting cultivation practices. It describes the resilience of weeds, including their introduction and spread across farming land due to various factors, and emphasizes the relevance of scientific names and descriptions for accurate identification. Beal's meticulous effort to detail over 250 kinds of weeds emphasizes their increasing prevalence and the challenges they pose to farming in Michigan.