This month's Reflections column takes a look at the value of impact factors.

“Publish or perish” has been a mantra heard by young academic horticulturists for decades. The intent of publishing is to inform others of research findings and to further scientific knowledge. This premise has been compromised lately by the adoption of journal metrics (e.g., impact factors) rather than the written content, as measured by scientific quality. Sadly, gullible administrators have been persuaded that metrics related to journals in which research is published can be used as a measure of the worth of an individual investigator. In this mind set, simple numbers can be substituted for the burdensome effort required to read and assess research quality. Two of our horticulture colleagues, Jules Janick and Kim Hummer, have written eloquently on this subject as listed in the references.

The ASHS Board of Directors conducted the Annual ASHS Capitol Hill visits on April 24, visiting 21 House and Senate offices, and meeting with members and key staff.

ASHS President Paul Bosland does a little myth-busting . . . ASHS style.

Held at the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort and Spa in Palm Desert, California, this year, the Annual Conference will provide you with the opportunity to network with your peers, make new acquaintances, and see old friends. Even though attending and participating in one’s professional society is very important, not all our members attend. Could it be that some believe the myths they hear?

This award honors the academic achievements of junior and senior undergraduates from departments of horticulture, or of plant and crop science, who are majoring in horticulture. Students must be in the top 15% of their class, based on academic standing and are selected on the basis of their scholarship achievements, leadership abilities, participation in campus/club activities, and services to their departments.

Congratulations go tho this year's awardees.