Natural Science 0230 - Agroecology

This course focuses on the theory and practice of agroecology as an approach to addressing both social and ecological health and well-being in farming systems. Students will become familiar with the ecological conditions that support or undermine the health of agro-ecosystems and the effects of different agricultural methods on the maintenance of biodiversity in farm fields and the surrounding landscape. We will also consider the social conditions that support or undermine the well-being of both human and natural systems, and social movements that attempt to promote alternative approaches. An important dimension of the course is collaborative research and practice in applied agroecology via individual and team projects. Students will have the opportunity to consider a range of methods and trends such as organic agriculture, permaculture, eco-agriculture and others within the broader framework of agroecology. The course will culminate with team presentations of model agro-ecological systems. There will be some experiments that will be carried out in the greenhouse and/or on the farm, and several field trips to local farms.

Writing and Research Independent Work Multiple Cultural Perspectives In this course students are generally expected to spend at least six to eight hours a week of preparation and work outside of class time.