Organic Agricultural Theory and Practice

Through this course, participants will:

• Become conversant in science-based organic agriculture theories and practices
• Understand the historical and biological roots, ethical questions, and socio-economic policies affecting organic production and distribution
• Articulate ecological principles underpinning organic production and research
• Increase understanding of the major concepts, themes, and discourse in organic agriculture in peer-reviewed journals and in gray literature
• Gain familiarity with current practices employed in certified organic row crop, livestock and horticultural research and on-farm operations
• Analyze complex, interdisciplinary problems facing transitioning and certified organic farmers and researchers
• Develop organic farm plans for certified organic operations using software programs
• Refine written and oral communication skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving through class discussion, reports and presentations