SD 3900 - Practicum in Sustainable Agriculture (3)

When Offered: Summer Session
This is a hands-on course focusing on the practice of sustainable agriculture. Students will engage agricultural systems from an ecological perspective, explore the biodiverse system of a natural working farm, and understand how such systems contribute to a more sustainable society. We will explore basic ecological concepts (i.e., biological, chemical, and physical factors and their interactions with plants and animals) and their application to agricultural systems, as well as the production and consumption aspects of food systems. Specific topics covered during group meeting sessions will include organic soil health, organic fertilization methods, animal husbandry, pest and disease management, methods to increase biodiversity in the agroecosystem, season extension, cover cropping, composting methods, and agroforestry, as well as marketing and community involvement. Independent work time at the Sustainable Development Teaching and Research Farm is integral to this course.
Prerequisite: SD 3100.