Organic Field Crop Management

The demand for organically grown crops is on the rise. To be successful, producers need to understand the principles behind soil and crop management and become familiar with organically acceptable practices. "Organic Field Crop Management" addresses the criteria for optimum yield and quality of field crops within the context of organic farming principles, sustainable soil and nutrient management, and the requirements for organic certification. Students learn through readings, on-line class discussions and written assignments. The course consists of five stand-alone modules:

• Module 1: Soil and Field Management
  What constitutes soil health? How can soil health be maintained? How do farming practices affect soil ecology? Why are soil physical and chemical properties important?
  
  

• Module 2: Nutrient Management Planning
  What is a nutrient management plan and why do I need one? What are the nutrient requirements of my crop? How much manure should I apply to my fields? What nutrient amendments are acceptable on certified organic farms?
  
  
  
  
• Module 3: Forages in Organic Systems
  Why are forages important in organic agriculture? What plant characteristics should I use to select appropriate forage species? How are weeds managed in organic forage stands? What are my grazing management options?
  
  
  
• Module 4: Organic Row Crop Production
  What is the role of row crops in organic agriculture? How can row crops be managed to minimize soil degradation? What are the common organic management practices for corn, soybean, and potato production?
  
  

• Module 5: Organic Small Grain Production
  What is the role of small grain crops in organic agriculture? What are the common organic management practices for small grain production? Are there special considerations for storing and marketing organically grown grains?
  

What students have said about the course:

"I am just a beginner when it comes to Agriculture, but through this course I have learned more than I ever expected." Ilisha Richardson, Fredericton, NB

"I hope to own my own hobby farm someday and it was a pleasure to gain the experience of this course." Jeremy Edwards, Alexandria, VA, USA

"I learned a lot from this course. I am going to be working on an organic farm this summer so it was really a great help." Paula Schofield, Truro, NS

"Developing these rotations and crop plans have been a great review and really makes you think about the practical applications and limitations of farm management." Sonya Shaw, Port Williams, NS

"I will do my best to introduce the ideas of organic agriculture to my country. I will keep in touch and hope that I can give you good news about organic farming in Mongolia. Your course gave me the understanding to move forward." Dulamtsoo Davaa, Mongolia

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