ENST 200/200L Fundamentals of Soil Science

This course provides an introduction to the basic principles of soil science. The physical, chemical and biological properties of soils will be emphasized and soil classification, genesis, distribution, ecology and plant-soil relationships will be examined. The laboratory component will introduce students to field methods used in soil science, including soil survey, soil analysis and soil management. Field trips to local sites will be included.

Credits

4

Prerequisite

CHEM 101/101L or PHYS 101/101L

Hours Weekly

3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab

Course Objectives

1. Describe the physical, biological and chemical properties of soils and explain the role of soils in a
   variety of ecosystems.
2. Discuss how soils are formed and how they are classified.
3. Describe the Global Hydrologic Cycle, and discuss the characteristics and behavior of soil water.
   
4. Identify irrigation and drainage principles and practices.
5. Identify the organisms that are found in soil and discuss soil ecology.
   
6. Describe how soil and plant communities interact.
   
7. Explain the process of soil aeration and describe the relationship of soil aeration to plant management.
   
8. Understand the importance of soil pH and pH management.
9. Discuss the factors that lead to soil erosion and land degradation and identify mechanisms used for soil
   conservation.
   
10. Demonstrate an understanding of the role that soils play in environmental quality and sustainability.
    

Course Objectives

1. Describe the physical, biological and chemical properties of soils and explain the role of soils in a
   variety of ecosystems.
2. Discuss how soils are formed and how they are classified.
3. Describe the Global Hydrologic Cycle, and discuss the characteristics and behavior of soil water.
   
4. Identify irrigation and drainage principles and practices.
5. Identify the organisms that are found in soil and discuss soil ecology.
   
6. Describe how soil and plant communities interact.
   
7. Explain the process of soil aeration and describe the relationship of soil aeration to plant management.
   
8. Understand the importance of soil pH and pH management.
9. Discuss the factors that lead to soil erosion and land degradation and identify mechanisms used for soil
   conservation.
   
10. Demonstrate an understanding of the role that soils play in environmental quality and sustainability.