PLSCS 3800 - Principles and Practices in Certified Organic Agriculture

Spring. 3 credits. Student option grading.

Offered in even-numbered years only. Co-meets with PLSCS 5800.

M. Ryan.

Organic farming is an increasingly important part of US agriculture and the food system. Students learn about the history of organic agriculture, the USDA National Organic Program, management practices used in organic crop and livestock production, and the scientific research on organic agriculture. Laboratory sessions complement lecture discussions with field trips to a variety of organic farms. Students read journal articles about organic agriculture, work through certification issues, and grow organic vegetable seedlings on campus.

Outcome 1: Summarize the history of organic agriculture.

Outcome 2: Explain the certification process and the National Organic Program standards.

Outcome 3: Develop appropriate management solutions to production problems.

Outcome 4: Discuss the scientific evidence for and against organic agriculture.