The ecology of plant, microbe, and human interactions in plant diseases, from wilderness to industrial farms. Epidemics, traditional farming, environmental impacts and sustainability issues. Ways in which agriculture, particularly plant production and plant disease management, change ecosystems. Independent project. Prerequisites: BIOLOGY 100 or equivalent recommended.
(Formerly MICROBIO 515)

Introduction to the indoor culture of tropical plants and other species. Artificial lighting, acclimatization, moisture requirements, soils and nutrition, and diagnosing plant problems. Information applicable to professional indoor plant maintenance, retail marketing, and growing plants in the home.

Participants will work under the direction of USDA Farm Service Agency personnel, providing assistance to the farm loan process, participating in government assistance programs, and working with USDA FSA outreach.

This course is structured to deliver a broad understanding of the dynamics in the equine world by introducing equine students to a wide range of professionals within the equine industry (e.g. horse trainers, stable owners, business/investors, researchers, feed companies, and veterinarians). Participation in scheduled lectures given by equine professionals. Lectures will be offered in the evening and will be open to the public. Weekly meetings with the instructor will be required.

A continuation of STOCKSCH 131. Topics include equine health, personnel management, time management, client communication, liability, contracts, and insurance information required for successful barn operation.

A continuation of STOCKSCH 131. Topics include equine health, personnel management, time management, client communication, liability, contracts, and insurance information required for successful barn operation.

Continuation of STOCKSCH 252. The focus will be on improvements and efficiency of the operation, weekly evaluation of strengths and weaknesses, client feedback, and marketing of the business for the following academic year. Students will present a positive financial statement at the end of the semester.

Students will learn about innovative production methods and critical social, economic, and environmental dimensions of modern day urban agriculture. Scholarly articles and videos, a custom library research guide, and significant research support from the instructor provide a strong foundation for students to investigate important topics and evaluate the performance of real life urban farm systems. The course will consist of lectures, readings, videos, and research assignments in which students critically assess major strengths, weaknesses and issues of 21st century urban farm systems.

This three-credit course includes in-class lectures, field trips, design studio and a hands-on field component, to offer students a deepened practice in permaculture design process and techniques. The course culminates with students completing their own permaculture design for a site in the pioneer valley.

Introduction to riding theory and the training scale for basic and advanced training of horse and rider in various disciplines.