Course information

This course introduces students to agricultural systems as ecosystems governed by the same ecological processes governing all natural systems.  Students will learn about the significance of ecology, classifications of ecosystems, population structure and distribution, ecological processes controlling soil-water-plant-atmosphere interactions as well as the capture and use of solar energy in the biosphere.  Students will also examine biotic interactions in agricultural systems and a variety of farming practices in the context of sustainability.  Specific topics will include: impact of wind and fire on agriculture and management, impacts of fertilizer use and its impact on the environment, pesticide use and their effects on the environment, livestock production impacts on climate change, water depletion and air pollution, importance of trees and impacts of deforestation. Practical work will focus on determining plant population using quadrant method. Students will visit fields and forests to look at plant, insect and animal interactions. Students will also make field trips to ranches and commercial farms using mineral fertilizers and pesticides and fungicides.