AECL 1000 Agroecology

This course introduces students to the ecological interactions that exist in agricultural systems and how these interactions impact food production both locally and on a global scale. This course investigates the challenges of feeding growing populations with a fixed resource based (land) and the economic, political, and environmental challenges facing agricultural food production. (3 lect., 3 lab)

Credits

4 credits

Transfer Status

Equivalent to UW.

Major Topics

  • Agricultural history
  • Ecosystems and ecosystem services
  • Energy flow in agricultural systems
  • Nutrient and water cycles
  • Biological principles related to plants, cell structure, respiration, photosynthesis, transpiration, and nutrient uptake
  • Seed and plant identification
  • Insect and microbial identification
  • Biotechnology and biodiversity
  • Sustainable agriculture views and concepts
  • Integrated pest management
  • Alternative cropping practices
  • Social and political pressures on agriculture

Outcomes

In order to successfully complete this course, the student will:

1. Describe the roots of modern agriculture and major shifts in production trends over time.

2. Define what an ecosystem is and the various services provided by ecosystems

3. Describe the flow of energy within ecosystems and agricultural systems

4. Explain nutrient and water cycles in agricultural ecosystems

5. Identify various seeds, plants, insects, and microbes

6. Describe biotechnology and the associated benefits and concerns

7. Explain biodiversity and factors impacting biodiversity on agricultural landscapes

8. Discuss sustainable agriculture and the various perspectives that commonly exist relating to sustainability

9. Identify examples of integrated pest management and concepts behind the practice

10. Describe alternative cropping practices that exist regionally and globally

11. Describe how government policies impact agriculture in developed and developing countries

Other Information

Any information placed here must be adhered to by all instructors:

For textbook information, contact the Agriculture/Range Management Instructor.