In-depth analysis of the underlying principles of plant production systems. Successful strategies, based on application of the principles developed by lecture and laboratory activities, will be discussed in either agronomic or horticultural contexts. Special attention will be given to minimizing the the environmental impact of the plant production techniques employed. Lecture, three hours; laboratory, two hours per week.
In-depth analysis of the underlying principles of plant production systems. Successful strategies, based on application of the principles developed by lecture and laboratory activities, will be discussed in either agronomic or horticultural contexts. Special attention will be given to minimizing the the environmental impact of the plant production techniques employed. Lecture, three hours; laboratory, two hours per week.
Directed independent research under the supervision of a faculty member on a selected topic in plant and soil sciences or agricultural ecosystem sciences. May be repeated to a maximum of 9 credits.
This course involves basic soil resource evaluation designed to provide the students with essential field training needed to pursue careers as soil scientists, conservationists, planners, agricultural chemical representatives and environmental assessors. It is also used to prepare the UK soil judging team for regional college competition. May be repeated to a maximum of five credit hours.
A learning experience in plant and soil science or agricultural ecosystem sciences under the direction of a faculty member with supervision from an internship advisor and with clear relevance to a student's program of study. A minimum of 48 working hours will constitute one semester credit hour. May be repeated for a maximum of nine (9) credits.
Management, environmental, economic, and social considerations of cover crops across a diversity of agricultural production systems. Through lab activities, students will actively grow cover crops, measure benefits and tradeoffs, and apply knowledge to make management and policy recommendations.
The application of principles related to soils and their management in planning the utilization of land and associated resources.
Study of the physical environment (radiation, temperature, precipitation, and evapotranspiration) in which crops are grown and the effect of the environment on crop growth and yield. Both micro- and macro-climatic relationships are considered.
Study of concepts of soil horizons, soil profiles and soilscapes; morphological, physical, chemical and mineralogical parameters useful in their characterization. Soil forming factors and processes. Basic principles of soil classification. Characterization of selected Kentucky soils and their placement in the modern system; practical field problems in soil identification, characterization and classification. Lecture, two hours; laboratory, three hours per week.
This course deals with the state and movement of matter, and with the fluxes and transformations of energy, in soil systems. Its objectives are to develop a basic theoretical understanding of soil physical properties and processes (with emphasis on the statics and dynamics of soil water), and to demonstrate how this understanding can be applied under field conditions to make sound management decisions concerning both agricultural and non- agricultural uses of soils.
