John E. Gallagher’s career included a variety of weed science related topics. He received his B.S. degree in Agronomy from Pennsylvania State University. During the early years of his career John worked for Amchem as a turfgrass weed control specialist. Later his interest turned to aquatic weed control and he became Product Development Manager for aquatic weed control products for the Union Carbide Agricultural Products Company.

John has played an important role in the development of weed science serving as President of the North East Weed Science Society (1968) and the Southern Weed Science Society (1982). He has served on the Board of Directors of the Aquatic Plant Management Society (1965-66), and on committees. He also regularly attends APMS annual meetings. John has written some 20 publications or abstracts dealing with various aspects of weed science. One area of interest involved a regulatory matter relating to the use of 2,4-D in aquatic plant management.

His expertise has been recognized and he has been a member of US EPA workshops, and an Interagency Taskforce. He was a consultant on international aquatic weed control problems as well. In recognition of his service and contributions, John has received the Southern Weed Science Society Distinguished Service Award and has been elected a fellow of the Weed Science Society of America. John’s outside interests included scuba diving, gardening, and a love of traditional Irish music. In 1997, John also received the APMS Max McCowen Friendship Honor.