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George J. Hochmuth, Ph.D.

This course will cover the agricultural and urban water quality issues in Florida, their bases, land and nutrient management strategies, and the science and policy behind the best management practices (BMPs). Students will learn to evaluate BMP research and analyze its role in determining practices and policies that protect water quality.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Sustainable Agricultural Land Management
In week 1, we will introduce you to the instructor and give you and overview of the course and project.
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Water Quality Issues and Regulations
In week 2, we will take a look at the big picture and some interesting examples, discuss the value of agriculture, and cover the im
TMDLs & Nutrients
In week 3, we will discuss TMDLs and agriculture, agricultural soils, and the first part of nutrient fates.
Best Management Practices
For week 4, we will dig deeper into nutrient fates and talk about nutrient mass balance.
Soil Management
For week 5, we will look at soil management in detail and begin to discuss soil testing.
Nutrient Management
In week 6, we will continue talking about soil testing and then cover proper nutrient management.
Water for Agriculture
For week 7, we will wrap up nutrient management and then move to water for agriculture. We will dive deeper into the water of Florida and then begin the topic of irrigation management.
Agricultural Irrigation Management
For our final week, we will finish up irrigation management and conclude with an overall review.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Explores agricultural and urban water quality issues in Florida, which is relevant to the state's economy and environment
Covers land and nutrient management strategies, which are essential for protecting water quality in agricultural areas
Examines the science and policy behind best management practices (BMPs), which are crucial for implementing effective water quality protection measures
Teaches students to evaluate BMP research, which enables them to make informed decisions about water quality management
Provides a solid foundation for understanding agricultural water quality issues and management strategies
Taught by George J. Hochmuth, Ph.D., who is recognized for his expertise in agricultural water quality management

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Reviews summary

Sustainable land management for agriculture

Learners say that this course on sustainable agricultural land management is comprised of engaging assignments, well-structured lectures, and in-depth content. The course emphasizes the importance of soil and water management techniques for sustainable agricultural practices. Students particularly appreciate the focus on triple bottom line strategies, which consider environmental, economic, and social aspects of agriculture. Overall, learners highly recommend this course for anyone interested in sustainable farming, land management, or agriculture in general.
Applicable to students' future careers.
"Benefited immensely from this course. As someone pivoting into the realm of sustainability, this course informed and affirmed my decision to pursue a role in aiding both farming communities and the environment by focusing on land management."
"This course is perfect. It is simple and easy learning."
"I have a farm and this is better helping me to appreciate the line of work they are in."
Emphasizes the consideration of environmental, economic, and social factors in agriculture.
"Excellent. The main issue for me was having the project done."
"Benefited immensely from this course. As someone pivoting into the realm of sustainability, this course informed and affirmed my decision to pursue a role in aiding both farming communities and the environment by focusing on land management."
"I am very excited for having the opportunity to take this course at the right time with the right person at the right university."
Graded assignments help students stay accountable.
"Appreciated having assignments and peer reviews in addition to the quizzes, which gave me more of a sense of accountability than with other (paid) courses I've taken here."
"I really enjoyed this course. It was very educational and helpful. My dream is to have a farm and to sell my own production. I only disliked how the assignments things worked."
"By doing project I GOT AN OPPORTUNITY TO INTERACT VIRTUALLY WITH OTHERS MEMBERS"
Provides valuable insights into sustainable soil and water management practices.
"This course provides a thorough and clear overview of sustainable agriculture even for beginners like me."
"The course gives the possibility to focus on the most important aspects of sustainable agriculture, it is very practical and at the same time eye-opening, the format of the course is optimal, you can choose your own pace"
"I really enjoyed this course. It was very educational and helpful."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Sustainable Agricultural Land Management with these activities:
Review Nutrient Management Principles
Refresh your understanding of nutrient management principles to maximize the effectiveness of agricultural practices.
Show steps
  • Revisit your course notes or textbooks on nutrient management.
  • Review online articles or videos on nutrient cycling.
  • Take a practice quiz on fertilizer application rates.
Review Basic Soil Science Concepts
Develop a solid foundation in the key concepts of soil science to enhance your understanding of agricultural land management techniques.
Show steps
  • Read a textbook chapter or online article on soil chemistry.
  • Review lecture notes or videos on soil physics.
  • Take a practice quiz on nutrient cycles.
Study 'Soil Management and Greenhouse Gas Mitigation'
Gain insights into the role of soil management practices in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and improving soil health.
Show steps
  • Read the book's introduction and key chapters.
  • Summarize the main concepts and findings.
  • Discuss the implications for agricultural practices.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Participate in a Virtual Study Group
Engage with fellow students to discuss course concepts, share perspectives, and support each other's learning.
Show steps
  • Join or create a virtual study group.
  • Meet regularly to discuss assigned topics.
  • Share resources and study materials.
Volunteer for a Local Water Conservation Organization
Apply your knowledge of agricultural water management in a practical setting while contributing to your community.
Show steps
  • Identify a local water conservation organization.
  • Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Attend volunteer events and assist with water conservation activities.
Analyze Water Quality Data
Practice interpreting water quality data to identify potential pollution sources and develop effective mitigation strategies.
Show steps
  • Access a real-world water quality dataset.
  • Identify and interpret key parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen, and nutrient concentrations.
  • Use statistical methods to analyze trends and patterns in the data.
  • Develop recommendations for improving water quality.
Conduct a Water Quality Monitoring Experiment
Gain hands-on experience in water quality monitoring techniques and data analysis to deepen your understanding of environmental processes.
Show steps
  • Design an experiment to test a specific water quality parameter.
  • Collect water samples and analyze them using appropriate methods.
  • Analyze the data and draw conclusions.
  • Present your findings in a written report or poster presentation.

Career center

Learners who complete Sustainable Agricultural Land Management will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Sustainability Analyst
A Sustainability Analyst conducts research and participates in initiatives to promote sustainable practices in agriculture. This course teaches important practices to help protect water quality in agriculture, which fits into the role of a Sustainability Analyst because it teaches the importance of environmental stewardship and the science behind organic farming. A background in agricultural sustainability can help a Sustainability Analyst perform their job effectively.
Water Resource Specialist
A Water Resource Specialist is responsible for developing and managing water conservation programs. Having a sound understanding of water quality and conservation measures is necessary for ensuring an adequate water supply for human needs and the environment. This course on Sustainable Agricultural Land Management provides a foundation of knowledge on water quality issues, regulations, and BMPs, making it relevant to the field of Water Resource Management. By taking this course, you will gain insights into sustainable land management practices that can positively impact water resource management.
Environmental Scientist
An Environmental Scientist studies the environment and develops solutions to environmental problems. This course on Sustainable Agricultural Land Management can be useful to an Environmental Scientist because it helps build a foundation in the science behind sustainable land management practices. The course covers topics such as water quality issues, nutrient management, and soil management, which are all relevant to environmental science.
Agricultural Engineer
An Agricultural Engineer designs and develops agricultural machinery and systems. Having a strong understanding of sustainable land management practices can be beneficial to an Agricultural Engineer, as they can apply this knowledge when designing agricultural systems. This course covers topics such as soil management, nutrient management, and water management, which are all relevant to agricultural engineering.
Soil Scientist
A Soil Scientist studies the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil. This course on Sustainable Agricultural Land Management may be useful to a Soil Scientist because it covers topics such as soil management and nutrient management, which are both important to soil science.
Crop Scientist
A Crop Scientist studies the genetics, physiology, and cultivation of crops. This course on Sustainable Agricultural Land Management can be useful to a Crop Scientist because it helps build a foundation in the science behind sustainable land management practices. The course covers topics such as soil management, nutrient management, and water management, which are all relevant to crop science.
Farm Manager
A Farm Manager oversees the day-to-day operations of a farm. Having a strong understanding of sustainable land management practices is crucial for a Farm Manager, as they are responsible for making decisions that affect the long-term health of the land. This course covers topics such as soil management, nutrient management, and water management, which are all relevant to farm management.
Agronomist
An Agronomist studies the production of agricultural crops. This course on Sustainable Agricultural Land Management can be useful to an Agronomist because it covers topics such as soil management, nutrient management, and water management, which are all important to agronomy.
Environmental Consultant
An Environmental Consultant provides advice and guidance on environmental issues to businesses and organizations. Having a strong understanding of sustainable land management practices can be beneficial to an Environmental Consultant, as they can apply this knowledge when advising clients. This course covers topics such as water quality issues, nutrient management, and soil management, which are all relevant to environmental consulting.
Natural Resources Manager
A Natural Resources Manager oversees the management of natural resources such as forests, water, and wildlife. Having a strong understanding of sustainable land management practices is important for a Natural Resources Manager, as they are responsible for making decisions that affect the long-term health of natural resources. This course covers topics such as soil management, nutrient management, and water management, which are all relevant to natural resources management.
Environmental Educator
An Environmental Educator develops and implements educational programs that promote environmental awareness. Having a strong understanding of sustainable land management practices can be beneficial to an Environmental Educator, as they can incorporate this knowledge into their educational programs. This course covers topics such as water quality issues, nutrient management, and soil management, which are all relevant to environmental education.
Policy Analyst
A Policy Analyst researches and analyzes public policy issues. Having a strong understanding of sustainable land management practices can be beneficial to a Policy Analyst, as they can apply this knowledge when developing and analyzing policies. This course covers topics such as water quality issues, nutrient management, and soil management, which are all relevant to public policy.
Sustainability Manager
A Sustainability Manager develops and implements sustainability programs for organizations. Having a strong understanding of sustainable land management practices is important for a Sustainability Manager, as they are responsible for making decisions that affect the long-term sustainability of an organization. This course covers topics such as water quality issues, nutrient management, and soil management, which are all relevant to sustainability management.
Water Quality Analyst
A Water Quality Analyst monitors and analyzes water quality data. Having a strong understanding of water quality issues and regulations is important for a Water Quality Analyst, as they are responsible for ensuring that water quality meets regulatory standards. This course covers topics such as water quality issues, regulations, and BMPs, which are all relevant to water quality analysis.
Conservation Scientist
A Conservation Scientist studies and works to protect natural resources. Having a strong understanding of sustainable land management practices is important for a Conservation Scientist, as they are responsible for developing and implementing conservation strategies. This course covers topics such as water quality issues, nutrient management, and soil management, which are all relevant to conservation science.

Reading list

We've selected six books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Sustainable Agricultural Land Management.
This advanced textbook delves into soil management practices that promote sustainability. It offers in-depth insights into soil health, nutrient cycling, and carbon sequestration, making it valuable for professionals and graduate students.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of water quality assessment, monitoring, and remediation.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of water resources engineering. It covers topics such as hydrology, water quality, and water distribution systems, making it a valuable resource for students and professionals in the field.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of environmental soil science. It covers topics such as soil chemistry, soil fertility, and soil pollution, making it a valuable resource for students and professionals in the field.

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