An introduction to the basic principles of plant anatomy, morphology, physiology, growth and development in relation to crop production. The course also addresses the responses of plants to their environment, including interactions with, and the effects of, factors such as competition (crop plants and weeds), temperature, moisture, nutrients, diseases and insects. Crop production management practices and their impact on crop productivity are also considered.
Considers the nature of annual, winter annual and perennial weed infestations in various types of crops. It describes weed growth and development, factors affecting the spread of weeds, and the nature and extent of losses due to weeds. Both chemical and non-chemical weed control methods are outlined and the factors that determine their effectiveness are discussed. Emphasis is placed on the development of weed control programs that are agronomically, environmentally and economically sound. Herbicide mode of action and the development of herbicide resistance in weed species are considered.
This is an introductory course on the basic principles of ecology. It relates us to the world environment, emphasizing our dependence on the interrelationships between solar energy, air, water, soil and living organisms. Topics discussed include the functioning of ecological systems such as fields, lakes and forests, the meaning of air and water pollution and ecotoxicity, and the impact of agriculture and population increases on the environment.
PL SC 57.3
Registration Info — 2004-2005 Regular Session»Agrometeorology 2(3L-1T) Prerequisite(s): Restricted to students enrolled in the Diploma in Agriculture program in the College of Agriculture.
This course discusses the processes by which weather elements affect various aspects of agriculture, including crop growth and development, disease incidence, animal metabolism, planting and harvesting dates, spray scheduling, and the use and design of shelterbelts and farm buildings. Knowledge gained will aid in interpreting weather data and forecasts, understanding variations in climate with changes in topography, and understanding implications of climatic change.
This course introduces students to the production, handling and marketing of forage crops. A number of native and introduced plants used for pasture, hay and silage are discussed. Topics addressed include sustainable production and goals, selection and production of cultivated plants, the care of native species, and forage economics.
PL SC 59.6
Registration Info — 2004-2005 Regular Session»Cereal Crops 2(3L-2P) Prerequisite(s): Restricted to students enrolled in the Diploma in Agriculture program in the College of Agriculture.
Focuses on the various market classes of cereal crops produced in Canada including wheat, rye, triticale, barley, oats, corn, rice, wild rice, canary seed, songhum and millet. It considers their importance domestically and internationally. Consideration is given to important grain quality characteristics and how these factors fit with market demands and utilization of the various types of wheat. Agronomic characteristics and production practices which will maximize quality and productivity are discussed.
Outlines the basic principles and practices involved in the Canadian pedigreed seed system. Practical aspects of seed production are considered, with emphasis on the scientific principles behind the regulations. Various groups and agencies and their roles in seed production are described. The development, evaluation, registration and release of new cultivars are also considered, related to both hybrids and synthetics.
Introduces students to the production, marketing and utilization of horticulture crops adapted to the Canadian prairies including fruit, vegetables, greenhouse crops, wildcrafting, herbs and medicinals. Farm operations varying from hobby gardens through to commercial scale will be used to illustrate course concepts.
This courses introduces students to plant materials, the theory and utility of plant use, and the economics and esthetic benefits of landscaping. Students will gain the ability to identify landscape plants and incorporate them effectively into a landscape. Plants considered will be prairie-hardy evergreen and deciduous trees, shrubs, and annual and perennial flowers.
The chemical, physical, and nutritional characteristics of fats and oils are discussed, with emphasis on similarities and differences among the oils produced by the various oilseed crops, including those not grown in western Canada. Oilseed crops important to western Canada are discussed with respect to agronomic and quality characteristics, growth and development, and production practices to maximize grain quality and crop yield. The nutritional and agronomic characteristics of grain legume crops are discussed with major emphasis on those adapted to western Canada. Growth and development characteristics of species and cultivars are considered in relation management practices presently used in western Canadian agriculture or available for adoption. Control of weeds, insect pests and diseases is also considered.