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AGR306 Biological Farming Systems (8)

Abstract

The knowledge function of the subject is about ways of developing biological farming practices on farm. This will embrace notions such as biodynamics and composting and other mechanisms which have been proven to enhance soil biology.

+ Subject Availability Modes and Location

Session 2
DistanceOrange Campus
Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: AGR306
Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject information

Duration Grading System School:
One sessionHD/FLSchool of Agricultural and Wine Sciences

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
- Be able to accurately demonstrate the attitudes and reasoning underlying biodynamic systems of management
- be able to access information on and critically evaluate the certification standards and processes of biodynamic organisations
- be able to identify and demonstrate practices used in the management of biodynamic systems
- be able to demonstrate how to plan and monitor strategies for the transition from a conventional to a biodynamic farming system
- be able to demonstrate how to plan and monitor strategies for the management of farms according to biodynamic aims and standards.
- be able to assess a composting program and its relevance to farming at varying scales.

Syllabus

The subject will cover the following topics:
- A holistic approach to assessment of biological farming systems the farm as an organism - Background to biodynamic agriculture - Soil mineral processes and organic matter formation - Soil fertility - Crop, pasture and animal husbandry - Pest and weed control - Research methods - Marketing biodynamic produce - Conversion to biodynamic management - Biodynamic organisations and activities - Certification standards - Composting types and procedures - The impact of composting on production.

Residential School

This subject contains a optional 3 day residential school. Run in conjunction with the Ecological Agriculture Design Systems subject. The purpose is to study biological farming practices.

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The information contained in the 2016 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 06 September 2016. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.