XII. Course Descriptions
Soil Science
School of Environmental Sciences
| SOIL*2010 Soil Science S,F,W (3-2) [0.50] |
| This course is an introduction to the principles of soil science - the origin of soils, their classification and interpretation
in natural and modified environments. Soil will be studied as a product of the natural environment, with a focus on formation
processes and changes which occur when it is modified through use. A variety of uses including agriculture, forestry, recreation,
and urban development will be considered. This course is not for B.Sc.(Agr.) students. (Also offered through Distance Education
format.)
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| SOIL*3050 Land Utilization F (3-1) [0.50] |
| Principles of land utilization and planning at the global, national, regional and local levels. Land characterization and
classification using photo-interpretive techniques and computerized soil survey interpretive programs. Land capability/suitability
for agriculture, forestry and engineering purposes. Emphasis on specific land use issues in Canada.
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| Prerequisite(s): |
1 of AGR*2301/2, AGR*2320, GEOG*1300, GEOL*1000, SOIL*2010 |
| SOIL*3080 Soil and Water Conservation S,F (2-3) [0.50] |
| A lecture-demonstration course on the processes leading to deterioration of soil and water quality, the impact of deterioration
on use, and preventative or corrective measures. Soil erosion by water and wind, soil compaction and salinization. Drainage
channel maintenance, sedimentation and nutrient enrichment of water. Conservation programs and policies. Reclamation of severely
disturbed soils and saline-sodic soils. Emphasis will be on concepts and solutions to problems in a systems approach. (Also
offered through Distance Education format.)
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| Prerequisite(s): |
1 of AGR*2301/2, AGR*2320, SOIL*2010 |
| SOIL*3200 Environmental Soil Biology W (3-3) [0.50] |
| Soil biological processes involving both microflora and fauna with emphasis on waste management, soil fertility and structure,
plant residue decomposition and xenobiotic compound biodegradation. Students will apply this knowledge in a project involving
biodegradation of an organic waste.
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| Prerequisite(s): |
10.00 credits including 1 of AGR*2301/2 , AGR*2320, SOIL*2010 |
| SOIL*4090 Soil Management F (3-1) [0.50] |
| A lecture-tutorial course on the practical aspects of soil management for crop production as they relate to the physical,
chemical and biological properties of soils; major emphasis is placed on soil fertility as related to field soil properties
and fertilizer, lime and manure use, soil and plant testing for mineral nutrients. The beneficial aspects of drainage, irrigation,
erosion control and related tillage practices on soil fertility are also presented. Due regard is given to both economic and
environmental aspects of soil management practices.
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| Prerequisite(s): |
1 of AGR*2301/2, AGR*2320, SOIL*2010 |
| SOIL*4250 Soils in the Landscape F (3-3) [0.50] |
| This course has field, laboratory and classroom components. It focuses on soil spatial and temporal variability, evaluating
soil properties in relation to controlling factors and processes, on local to global scales. Students are exposed to standard
procedures for collecting soil data in the field and laboratory, highlighting sampling design and data extrapolation, as well
as relevant applications of digital imaging of soil (micropedology) and landscapes. Principles of soil classification are
discussed and several systems are introduced, emphasizing the Canadian System of Soil Classification; key concepts associated
with the production of soil maps and reports, as well as the role of geographic information systems in archiving and interpreting
soil information, are also examined. Students are required to notify the designated departmental instructor, of their intention
to participate in this course, during the previous winter semester (or earlier, if going on exchange programs). This course
has field camps which run during the week preceding the Fall semester. A fee is charged to cover some costs of field activities.
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| Prerequisite(s): |
12.50 credits including (1 of AGR*2320, GEOL*1050, GEOL*1100, SOIL*2010)
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| Restriction(s): |
SOIL*3170, SOIL*4170 Restricted to B.Sc.(Agr.) Agroecosystem Management or B.Sc.(Env.) Earth and Atmospheric Science majors or B.B.R.M. Instructor
consent required.
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