PLSCI 3800

Principles and Practices in Certified Organic Agriculture

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2025-2026 Catalog.

Organic farming is an increasingly important part of US agriculture and the food system. Students learn about the history of organic agriculture, the USDA National Organic Program, management practices used in organic crop and livestock production, and the scientific research on organic agriculture. Laboratory sessions complement lecture discussions with field trips to a variety of organic farms. Students read journal articles about organic agriculture, work through certification issues, and grow organic vegetable seedlings on campus.

Distribution Requirements (AFS-AG)

Last 4 Terms Offered 2024SP, 2022SP, 2020SP, 2019SP

Learning Outcomes

• Summarize the history of organic agriculture.
• Explain the certification process and the National Organic Program standards.
• Develop appropriate management solutions to production problems.
• Discuss the scientific evidence for and against organic agriculture.

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