AGRI 0196. Introduction to Sustainable Agriculture

Units: 3
Hours: 54 lecture
Introduction to the concepts and principles of agroecology as applied to the design and management of sustainable agricultural systems. Includes examination of case studies connecting sustainable agriculture principles to farming practices. (CSU, UC)

AGRI 0196 - Introduction to Sustainable Agriculture

http://catalog.sierracollege.edu/course-outlines/agri-0196/

Catalog Description DESCRIPTION IS HERE: Hours: 54 lecture Description: Introduction to the concepts and principles of agroecology as applied to the design and management of sustainable agricultural systems. Includes examination of case studies connecting sustainable agriculture principles to farming practices. (CSU, UC) Units 3 Lecture-Discussion 54 Laboratory By Arrangement Contact Hours 54 Outside of Class Hours Course Student Learning Outcomes Assess an agroecosystem for its level of sustainability based on indicators of a sustainable system. Describe the values, themes, methods, and history of sustainable agriculture regionally and worldwide. Summarize the ecological roles of plants and their functional relationships to an agro ecosystem. Evaluate systems of water and soil management promoting the sustainable use of resources. Course Content Outline I. Introduction to Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture A. What is sustainable agriculture B. Terms related to sustainability C. Common themes of sustainable agriculture II. Concepts of Agroecology and Sustainability A. Agroecology as a science B. Ecosystem characteristics C. Ecological Principles D. Steps in the ecological design process E. Natural patterns in the garden III. History of Sustainable Agriculture IV. Principles of Sustainable Agriculture V. Achieving Sustainability A. Learning from existing agroecological systems B. Converting to sustainable practices VI. Specific Strategies A. Soil fertility & nutrient cycling B. Soil fertility C. Water management D. Enhancing and maintaining biological diversity E. Integrated pest management (IPM) F. Conservation of natural resources VII. Case Studies A. National perspective B. Local case studies VIII. Career Opportunities in Sustainable Agriculture Course Objectives Course Objectives 1. Relate the methods of scientific investigation to agricultural productivity. 2. Describe the nature of scientific inquiry. 3. Describe the values, themes, methods, and history of sustainable agriculture regionally and worldwide. 4. Define sustainable agriculture. 5. Describe the characteristics of a natural ecosystem. 6. Compare and contrast the properties of natural ecosystems, sustainable agroecosystems, and conventional agroecosystems. 7. Evaluate the role of soil fertility in an ecological production system. 8. Discuss and evaluate the principles and strategies of sustainable agriculture. 9. Evaluate systems of water management promoting ecological use of resources. 10. Summarize the ecological roles of plants and their functional relationships to an agroecosystem. 11. Assess an agroecosystem for its level of sustainability based on indicators of a sustainable system. 12. Prescribe ways of converting to a sustainable system through the redesign of a conventional agroecosystem. 13. Identify career opportunities and objectives in sustainable agriculture. Methods of Evaluation Classroom Discussions Essay Examinations Objective Examinations Reports Reading Assignments 1. Read the assigned pages from the textbook and supplemental sources and be prepared to discuss various management tools of sustainable agriculture practices throughout history. 2. Students will be responsible for reading current media articles regarding sustainable agricultural practices and society's perception of those practices. They will then discuss the issues by applying scientific and ecological methodology to issues. For example, students will read current media articles regarding synthetic and natural fertilizers and discuss the scientific accuracy or inaccuracy of the facts supporting the perceptions and opinions presented in the article. Writing, Problem Solving or Performance 1. Complete a series of mini in-class opinion papers reporting on current issues in sustainable food production before and after the topic is discussed in class. 2. Students will compose a term paper drawing on material presented in the class, in reading materials as well as additional resources. Grading will be based on content and accuracy. The paper should be submitted in the following format: 1. Topic Title 2. Brief Summary 3. Introduction outlining the issue and approaches to investigate the questions raised. 4. Discussion of all facets of the issue including programs in place by public or private organization to address the issue and relationship to all facets of sustainability. 5. Conclusions including proposed solutions and methodologies for addressing the issue and your assessment of the progress being made by public/private organizations in addressing the issue. The following are potential topics: -Population growth and sustainable agriculture practice productivity -The benefits and problems of inorganic fertilizer use in agriculture -Regulation and release of recombinant plants, animals and microorganisms into the environment -The Green Revolution and Sustainability -Biotechnology and sustainable agriculture -National Organic Program and Sustainability Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.) Methods of Instruction Lecture/Discussion Distance Learning Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course.

Agriculture

http://catalog.sierracollege.edu/departments/agriculture/

Overview Sustainable agriculture is an integrated system of plant and animal production practices having a site-specific application that will, over the long-term, satisfy human food and fiber needs; enhance environmental quality and the natural resource base upon which the agriculture economy depends; make the most efficient use of nonrenewable resources and on-farm resources and integrate, where appropriate, natural biological cycles and controls; sustain the economic viability of farm operations and enhance the quality of life for farmers and society as a whole. TRANSFER AND MAJOR REQUIREMENTS in Agriculture are available in the Counseling Center. In all cases, students should consult with a counselor for specific transfer requirements. Faculty