Sustainable Agriculture Course

Introduction

Following the anticipated increase in human population and a consequent decrease in land, there is a need for farmers to adopt farming systems that can sustain the increased population specifically sustainable agriculture. Sustainable agriculture is a type of agriculture whose focus is on the production of long-term crops and livestock with minimal environmental impact. This type of agriculture produce healthy, nutritious, affordable food and a dependable, secure food supply -without producing a negative impact on the environment. Sustainable agriculture aims at reducing the use of agro-chemicals such as pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, promoting biodiversity in crops and ecosystems and helping farmers improve their Agri-skills and quality of life.

Duration

Course outline

Module 1: Introduction to sustainable agriculture

·        Sustainable ways of farming

·        Whole farm planning

·        Land Management programs

·        Natural farming

·        Organic farming

·        Minimum Tillage

Module 2: Soil conservation technologies

·        Major types of soil problems

·        Soil structural decline

·        Soil improvements

·        Adding organic matter to soils

·        Cultivation techniques

·        Conservation tillage

·        Stone bund and soil bund

·        Cover crops

Module 3: Water conservation techniques

·        Types of water storage

·        Water quality

·        Reed beds

·        Water saving measures

·        Recycling

·        Swales and keylines

·        Irrigation systems

Module 4: Land Care

·        Weed Management

·        Preventative measures

·        Tree management

·        Wind breaks

·        Wildlife corridors

·        Wildlife habitats

·        Pest and diseases control

Module 5: Financial Sustainability

·        Economic principles

·        Developing a Farm Business Plan

·        Financial plan

·        Controlling growth

·        Value adding

·        Enterprise mix