This is course focuses on management of soil and water, two essential components of agriculture.
Course Content:
- Why the emphasis on soil and water?
- Cross compliance schemes
- Basic soil science - Texture, Structure, Erosion
- Erosion assessment methods
- Methods for reducing erosion
- Soil profile assessment – soil pits
- In-field erosion risk assessment exercise
- The soil as a substrate
- Methods of cultivation
- Soil type, Need, Geometry, Work rates
- Compaction and its alleviation (including the effects of traction)
- Plant water interactions for optimum growth
- The role of irrigation and scheduling
- Types of water pollution and the COGAP Water
- Including methods of analysis
- Drainage systems – types, importance and maintenance
- Water table maintenance
- NVZ legislation
- Organic wastes - Types, Nutrient value, Application, Problems
- Preparing a Farm nutrient balance sheet using RB 209
- Preparing a manure management plan
- Producing a farm soil and water management plan
Course Length:
- Six Days (including Exam)