Programs

The course introduces the industry and practice of agriculture with emphasis given to an understanding of Canadian production systems, relevant aspects of agricultural science and factors affecting production. The course surveys the major field crop and animal production systems in north-eastern BC including topics of identification, adaptation, uses, cultural practices, management issues, cost of production and marketing considerations with some focus on inter-relationships with other Peace region industries. Agricultural diversification such as specialty crops and animals, agroforestry and organic production is also explored along with aspects of environmental management, industry development and regulatory considerations.

 

Credits: 3

 

Hours: 45 (Lecture Hours: 38, Laboratory Hours:7)

 

Total Weeks: 15

 

Prerequisites:
BIOL127 or permission of the instructor

 

Course Content:

Introduction to Agriculture
- History of agriculture.
- Agriculture as science.
- Global, national and First Nations contexts
Peace Region Agriculture
- Agricultural industry profile and sector development plan
- Local issues in agricultural production
- Industry operations field tour
The Science of Crop Production
- Dynamic processes: C and N cycles, energy flow, water cycle.
- Limitations on Production
- Plant breeding
- Pedigreed Seed Production
Crop Production Systems
- Wheat, Fall Rye, Oats and Barley
- Canola
- Field Pea Production
- Forage
Agricultural Diversification
- Specialty Crops
- Specialty Animals
- Agroforestry
- Organic Agriculture
Livestock Production
- Beef and Dairy Cattle
- Pork and Poultry Production
Agriculture and Environmental Stewardship
- Regulatory Framework
- Land Use Planning
- Environmental Farm Planning
- Weed issues and control
Agricultural Economics
- Farm and Financial Management
- Risk Management
Agricultural Industry Development
- Agricultural Land Commission
- Non-farm Uses of Agricultural Land
- Integrated land management
- The future of farming

 

Learning Outcomes:
- Outline general history and significance of agriculture from local to global context
- Describe the diverse forms of agricultural production practiced in northeast BC including basic elements of agricultural science.
- Identify key issues involved in environmental management related to crop and livestock systems along with alternative forms of agriculture which emphasize organic production.
- Explore regulatory and financial aspects of the agriculture industry to support sustainability and including best-practices in integrated production that recognizes the interactions with other resource industries
- Recognize issues and assist with agrlcultural resource management, planning, and restoration objectives

 

Grading System: Letters

 

Passing Grade: D (50%)

 

Percentage of Individual Work: 100