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Tutor: Dr. Jim Lewis
Day one
Why the emphasis on soil and water?
Cross compliance schemes
Basic soil science
- Texture
- Structure
- Erosion
Erosion assessment methods
Methods for reducing erosion
Exercise on soil erosion and associated risk assessment
Day Two
Short test on day 1 subjects
Soil profile assessment – soil pits
In-field erosion risk assessment exercise
The soil as a substrate for crop production
Methods of cultivation
- Soil type
- Need
- Geometry
- Work rates
Compaction and its alleviation (including the effects of traction)
Exercise on cultivation choice for crop soil type and condition
Day Three
Short test on day 2 subjects
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
Exercise on designing a drainage system
Day Four
Short test on day 3 subjects
NVZ legislation
Organic wastes
- Types
- Nutrient value
- Application
Problems
Preparing a Farm nutrient balance sheet using RB 209
Preparing a manure management plan
Exercise preparing nutrient and manure management plans for a farm rotation
Day Five
Short test on day 4 subjects
Producing a farm soil and water management plan
Practical exercise
Discussion of the course and revision exercises
Day Six
The exam
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