Thursday 17 May 2012

Online Soil Conservationist Classes and Courses Overview

Foresters and conservation scientists supervise land use programs, including the use and development of forests, rangelands, and other natural resources. Online training in soil science and conservation is available through several college courses for students interested in study soil conservation.

Overview of Soil Conservationist Online Classes and Courses

Soil conservationists assist land owners and government agencies with issues related to land management, soil erosion and conservation. They also conduct research on the effects that improper soil management may have on crop production, forestry and ecosystems. Completion of an undergraduate or graduate degree in forestry, agriculture or natural resource management is usually required for this position. Several colleges offer bachelor's and master's programs in agricultural science, environmental sciences or natural resources which include online courses in soil science and conservation.

Online Course Requirements

Most online courses are taught through Blackboard, Web-CT or other Web-based systems. Students will need to have regular access to a computer with Internet access and e-mail and word processing software. Broadband or DSL connection speeds may be best for viewing streaming video and other online content. Many colleges offer classes that prepare new students for online learning. Prerequisite courses in college chemistry and college algebra may be required prior to taking undergraduate-level soil science courses.

List of Online Soil Conservation Courses

Soil Science Introductory Course

The course is available in soil science certificate programs, as well as in several bachelor's degree programs in agricultural science and environmental sustainability. This class focuses on the biological and chemical makeup of soil, different soil classifications and the properties of soil which can affect plant development. Also studied is the Earth's hydrological cycle on global and local levels, agricultural consumption, soil conservation and the effects of environmental and economic change on the earth's crust.

Soil Ecosystems and Sustainability Course

This review of the soil's environment as a vehicle for plant development is usually a core requirement for undergraduate degree programs. In this class students examine soil nutrition, and review the organisms that function within the soil ecosystem and the role of water in the food supply. Also discussed is the nutrient life cycle and the impact of human actions on soil sustainability.

Global Soil Resources Course

The global division and agricultural efficiency of the world's major soil groups and their ability to sustain crop growth are the focus of this course. The impact of increased human activity and the possible causes of soil degradation are discussed.

Soil Quality Course

This course may be presented as an independent study video seminar series that focuses on the relation between crop sustainability and soil quality. Scientific research is presented based on the experiences of growers who have used organic and sustainable techniques in managing their farming operations. The course explores the relationships between soil's biological and physical properties and the effect on agricultural plant growth.

Soil for Sustainable Agriculture Course

Videos and class discussions focus on the historical and continuing effects of human cultures on soil quality. Topics in this course include how the addition of organic matter affects microbial soil quality and the links between climate change and soil carbon cycles.

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