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Agriculture
College of Agriculture
Dean: Jennifer Ryder Fox
Plumas Hall 317
530-898-5844
530-898-5845 (fax)
email:
agr@csuchico.edu
http://www.csuchico.edu/ag/
Academic Program Coordinator:
Academic Advisors:
Program
Minor in Agricultural Business
Certificate in Plant Protection
Agriculture Specialist Instruction
Agriculture Course Offerings
Please see the section on "Course Description Symbols and Terms" in the University Catalog for an explanation of course description terminology and symbols, the course numbering system, and course credit units. All courses are lecture and discussion and employ letter grading unless otherwise stated. Some prerequisites may be waived with faculty permission. Many syllabi are available on the Chico Web.
A college success course for agricultural majors new to California State University, Chico. The course will explore the academic
and social opportunities and resources available to promote successful completion of the student's educational goals. Meets
the first half of the semester. Credit/no credit grading only.
This course is offered for 1.0 to 2.0 units. An individualized class designed to develop and refine the student's ability
to organize and coordinate Agriculture field days and other related group activities. Maximum of four semesters and/or 4 units
toward BS degree. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading only.
This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may
vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered.
Objectives, nature, and scope of teaching vocational agriculture. Types of programs and career opportunities in vocational
education. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
An individualized class in gaining teaching experience through observation and critique of high school students and teachers
in the classroom, at FFA events, and in supervised occupational experiences.
Prerequisites: ANSC 101 or PSSC 101; CHEM 107 or CHEM 111.
Mendelian inheritance, gene structure and action, sex-related inheritance, linkage and mapping, aneuploidy, polyploidy, population
and quantitative inheritance, inbreeding and heterosis. Activities feature techniques in biotechnology with agricultural applications.
Activities feature techniques in biotechnology with agricultural applications. 3.0 hours lecture, 2.0 hours activity.
Up-to-date approaches in integrated program development based on occupational opportunities and community needs. Philosophy,
organization, and administration of agricultural education programs. Development of curriculum, supervised occupational experience,
Future Farmers of America (FFA), and summer programs. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: PSSC 101 or PSSC 250.
An interdisciplinary treatment of physical and biological environments used for agriculture. Historical and ecological nature
of agriculture its impact on the landscape and society. Comparison of sustainable and non-sustainable agricultural practices.
2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
A study of the California fair system, including budgets, interim events, sponsorships, entertainment, exhibits, and purpose.
Development of interpersonal skills needed to develop and coordinate agricultural events. Special fee required; see the Class
Schedule.
Prerequisites: AGRI 380A or permission of the instructor.
Development of communication and organizational skills needed to plan and conduct agricultural educational events, particularly
those associated with fairs. Students will update their resumes, be interviewed and selected for leadership roles associated
with the College of Agriculture's spring events calendar. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: Prior approval of academic goals by the Internship Coordinator.
This course is an internship offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. Work
experience with selected agricultural enterprises is supervised by faculty and staff of a cooperating enterprise. You may
take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. Credit/no credit grading only.
This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may
vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered.
Prerequisites: Upper-division standing.
This course is an independent study of a topic or problem and is offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Students must register with a
supervising faculty member. Study/research in agriculture under direct supervision of a faculty member. You may take this
course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading only.
Prerequisites: AGRI 201 or faculty permission.
Preparation for student teaching in agriculture. Orientation to classroom situations. Development of plans for teaching, including
daily lessons and unit plans, utilization of source information, and resources. Class demonstration in teaching procedures,
analysis, and evaluation. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: AGET 120. Recommended: AGET 150.
Curriculum development and methods of teaching and motivating students in agricultural mechanics. 3.0 hours laboratory, 2.0
hours seminar.
Prerequisites: PSSC 101 or equivalent.
This course is designed to educate and motivate students in the daily organization of teaching high school and community college
horticulture students. Curriculum development, teaching methods, and lab safety are emphasized, along with contextual learning
and learning horticulture and agriscience through inquiry.
Prerequisites: AGRI 331 or faculty permission.
A study of sustainable management practices in the context of agricultural land stewardship. The development of practical
skills and understanding paramount to leadership and management of personal and professional activities. The focus is on identifying
available resources, clarifying goals, developing action plans, and promoting communication, savvy monitoring, and decision
making that expedite progress toward a thriving enterprise and contribute to a sustainable community. Case studies, community
activities, and discussion explore the impact of management decisions on progress toward desired goals.
Prerequisites: ENGL 130 (or its equivalent) with a grade of C- or higher.
A critical examination of major issues confronting agriculture. Students research current issues relevant to the role of agriculture
in society. This is a writing proficiency, WP, course; a grade of C- or better certifies writing proficiency for majors.
Prerequisites: AGRI 331.
Students will design and execute applied agriculture research projects that seek to improve the management of agricultural
enterprises. Students will learn the most common experimental designs for agricultural research, utilize computer programs
to analyze and interpret experimental data and further develop scientific writing skills. 3.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory.
Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: AGRI 490.
This course is a continuation of AGRI 490. Students complete a research project and professional research paper and present
research findings through public forums. 2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may
vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered.
An intensive 6-unit, one-year course in agricultural research. See College office for details. Open only to students with
at least a 3.0 GPA in the major. The course consists of a faculty-supervised research project, a thesis, and a public presentation.
Prerequisites: Acceptance into the fifth-year program in agricultural education.
Supervised teaching in public secondary school daily for one semester. Candidate will arrange his/her schedule so that he/she
is free from all campus obligations.
Prerequisites: Acceptance into the fifth-year program in agricultural education.
Principles of curriculum development in agriculture; methods of teaching and organization of teaching material.
Agricultural Business Course Offerings
The role of agricultural business in the economy. Introductory economic and business principles and their application to the
solution of agricultural problems. This is an approved General Education course.
Application of selling and consulting techniques for agribusiness firms.
Introduction to the principles of farm accounting, farm business record keeping, agribusiness management, financial analysis,
and enterprise budgeting.
Prerequisites: ABUS 261 or ACCT 201.
Cost concepts as a management tool in agriculture are explored. Budgeting techniques for planning and control and for long-term
projects are developed. 2.0 hours activity, 2.0 hours lecture.
This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may
vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered.
This course prepares interested students for regional and national Quiz Bowl competition of the American Agricultural Economics
Association. Areas of preparation include agricultural business and economics, general agriculture, statistics, economics,
accounting, finance management and marketing. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 8.0 units. Credit/no
credit grading only.
Prerequisites: ABUS 101 or ECON 103.
Application of microeconomic theory to the agricultural production process, including single and multivariate production and
cost functions, price determination in competitive and non-competitive markets and programs.
Prerequisites: ABUS 101.
Economic principles applied to the marketing of agricultural products. Function, structure, and operation of agricultural
markets. Introduction to the futures market. Trends in marketing of California agricultural crops and livestock. Special fee
required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: ABUS 311.
This course covers principles and practices of distributing food from producer to consumer. The functions of wholesalers and
intermediate handlers, including food brokers, are discussed. An in-depth analysis of the food retail industry is included.
Prerequisites: ABUS 101 or equivalent.
The application of economic and management principles to the planning, control, and organization of agribusiness firms. Linear
programming applications, decision trees, inventory control, and equipment replacement.
This course is offered for 1.0-2.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. Current topics in
agribusiness and industry. Application of business management concepts to agriculture; exploring careers in agribusiness and
industry. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 4.0 units.
Survey of microcomputer applications for agribusiness management, emphasizing personnel productivity software, including database
manager, advanced spreadsheet, and electronic communication software.
Prerequisites: ABUS 101 or faculty permission.
The economics of renewable natural resource use, management, development, and allocation. Conflicts in use, markets for resources,
cases of market failure, and economic conservation will be discussed.
The goal of this course is to have students develop their analytical, decision-making, and communication skills related to
marketing and management of food systems in the world economy. Focusing on the unique aspects of the food and fiber trade-physical
attributes, storage practices, phytosanitary criteria, and food safety concerns.
Prerequisites: Permission of Internship Coordinator.
This course is an internship offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. Work
experience with selected agribusinesses, including financial institutions, marketing agencies, management firms, farms, ranches,
private or public agencies. Experience must be related to business aspects of agriculture. Supervised by faculty and staff
of cooperating banks, farms, agencies, and corporations. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units.
Credit/no credit grading only.
A study of agricultural problems and policies of developing nations. Emphasis on cultural values; physical, economic, and
political constraints; hunger and international trade. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved Global
Cultures course.
This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may
vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered.
Prerequisites: Faculty permission.
This course is an independent study of special problems and is offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You may take this course more than
once for a maximum of 6.0 units.
Prerequisites: ABUS 311 or faculty permission.
To provide an in-depth understanding of operating marketing planning and implementation. Development of a marketing plan including
product and market assessment, financial evaluation justification, a plan of action, and an evaluation/control component.
Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: ABUS 301 and MATH 105.
Analysis of price-determining factors for agricultural products. Business conditions and changes in supply and demand for
domestic and international agricultural commodities. Study of structure, conduct, and performance of agricultural markets.
Monopolistic practices and relative efficiency of markets.
Prerequisites: ABUS 301, ABUS 321.
Agribusiness organization and management. Budgeting, input-output relationships, and enterprise analysis in decision making.
Application of economic and management principles. Human resource management. 2.0 hours lecture, 2.0 hours activity. Special
fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: ABUS 101, ABUS 311, senior standing.
Cooperative principles and philosophy. Types and importance of cooperative activity in the U.S. Accounting for cooperative
activity. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: Senior standing; completion of 6 units of upper-division ABUS courses.
An examination of the critical role played by labor in the development and vitality of California's agricultural industry.
Emphasis on policy issues related to functioning of labor markets, employment practices, unionization and collective bargaining,
immigration, and mechanization.
Prerequisites: ABUS 331 or equivalent.
An advanced study of microcomputer applications for agribusiness management. Students are trained in advanced uses of a data
base manager, an electronic spreadsheet, and various applications software for cost accounting, production management, and
planning.
Prerequisites: Senior standing, ABUS 301, ECON 102.
Domestic and international issues in U.S. agricultural food policy. A study of the major problems confronting agriculture,
the process by which government formulates agricultural policy, and the socio-economic impact of current government programs.
Prerequisites: BLAW 302, senior standing.
An examination of the rules of contract, tort, property, and other laws of practical concern to agricultural business operations.
Emphasis will be on applications relevant to the California farm sector and will focus on business organization, finance,
estate planning, and the evolution of California law on land and water use, labor relations, and environmental protection.
Prerequisites: ABUS 101.
Principles and techniques of farm and ranch appraisal. Valuation of farm and rural resources. 2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours
laboratory.
Prerequisites: ABUS 101 and ABUS 261.
Financing of agricultural enterprises. Principles, methods, and institutions involved in financing farming enterprises and
related agricultural industries. Coordinated financial statements. Capital budgeting. 2.0 hours activity, 2.0 hours discussion.
Study of risk management strategies in agriculture, including workplace safety, rules, and regulations. Equipment selection,
maintenance, trends, and economics. Determining equipment requirements and costs. Systems for recording parts, services, and
maintenance. Formerly AGET 487.
This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units respectively. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only
basis and may vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic
being offered.
Prerequisites: Faculty permission.
An intensive 6-unit, one-year investigation of a research topic in agricultural business. See College office for details.
Open to students with at least a 3.0 GPA in the major. Course consists of a faculty-supervised research project, a thesis,
and a public presentation.
Agricultural Engineering Technology Course Offerings
Prerequisites: Faculty permission.
Weekly conferences for students with projects; directed work on the University Farm and elsewhere. Individual and group problems.
You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 4.0 units.
Selection, care, and use of common tools; study of safety, common materials and skills used in electrical, plumbing, woodworking,
metal work, and land measurement in the field of agriculture. 2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory. Special fee required;
see the Class Schedule.
Principles of operation, adjustments, calibration, and safety of wheel and track-type tractors including implements and equipment
commonly used in California agriculture. 2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Application of Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in agriculture and natural resource
management. Identification and delineation of locations and areas; collection, analysis, storage, and retrieval of site and
time specific data for agriculture and natural resource management and monitoring. 2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory.
A study of energy alternatives currently used in agriculture, including solar, biomass, wind, and water. Emphasis on biomass
conversions, including anaerobic digestion, fermentation, gasification, and direct combustion.
Prerequisites: PSSC 101 or PSSC 250 or faculty permission.
Design, management, and evaluation of landscape and agricultural irrigation systems for efficient water use. 2.0 hours lecture,
3.0 hours laboratory. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: Prior approval of academic goals by the Internship Coordinator.
This course is an internship offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. Work
experience with selected farm machinery shop or corporations is to be completed and supervised by faculty and staff of cooperating
ranch or industry. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. Credit/no credit grading only.
Prerequisites: Upper-division standing, faculty permission.
This course is an independent study of a topic or problem and is offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Students must register with a
supervising faculty member. Study/research/problem solving under direct supervision of a faculty member. You may take this
course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading only.
Prerequisites: AGET 120.
A study of agricultural equipment (harvesters, irrigation systems, etc.) and the computer, electronic, electrical, and mechanical
controls involved. The operation, installation, trouble-shooting, and maintenance of control systems in agricultural applications.
2.0 hours activity, 2.0 hours lecture.
Animal Science Course Offerings
An overview, using a scientific perspective, of farm animals. Highlights anatomy and physiology of farm animals, reproduction,
nutrition, animal health, animal products, animal behavior, and pertinent social issues, such as animal rights. Includes human
opportunity to influence trait inheritance, population densities, and productivity. 3.0 hours laboratory, 2.0 hours lecture.
This is an approved General Education course.
Directed work experience in the management of beef, dairy, meats, sheep, and swine enterprises at the University Farm, with
three weeks at each enterprise. Weekly conferences on student projects and individual and group problems. 1.0 hours lecture,
3.0 hours laboratory. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 4.0 units.
An introduction to selection, nutrition, health, and management of beef, sheep, swine, and dairy for livestock youth programs,
including ethical practices associated with livestock exhibition. This class is designed primarily for students pursuing a
career in agricultural education. 2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory.
Designed to allow the student to become familiar with various vaccines, equipment, and restraining techniques used in routine
treatment of farm animals. Selection of proper materials, veterinary nomenclature, actual handling and treatment of farm animals
involved. 3.0 hours laboratory, 1.0 hours lecture.
Principles and practices used in the production of commercial herds of beef cattle. General husbandry, breeding, feeding,
selection, housing, marketing, and records keeping. Eight weeks only.
Prerequisites: Faculty permission.
Principles and practices used in the production of commercial flocks of sheep. General husbandry, breeding, feeding, selection,
housing, marketing, and records keeping. Eight weeks only.
Prerequisites: Faculty permission.
Principles and practices used in the production of commercial herds of swine. General husbandry, breeding, feeding, selection,
housing, marketing, and records keeping. Eight weeks only.
Prerequisites: Faculty permission.
Principles and practices used in the production of commercial herds of dairy cows. General husbandry, breeding, feeding, selection,
housing, marketing, and records keeping. Eight weeks only.
Principles and practices used in the horse industry. An introduction to feeding, breeding, selection, housing, health, use,
handling, training, tack, and basic equitation. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may
vary from term to term. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered.
An introduction to the nutrition of domestic and wild animals with emphasis on appropriate nutrition for various activities.
A survey of the integration of feed production and animal production systems. Computer formulation and analysis of diets to
achieve desired performance levels of animals. 2.0 hours activity, 2.0 hours lecture. Special fee required; see the Class
Schedule.
Evaluation of market livestock as related to growth and development, production efficiency, carcass merit, selection of breeding
animals based on performance, production records and visual appraisal. Specific reference to factors determining carcass value.
2.0 hours seminar, 2.0 hours activity.
Prerequisites: ANSC 160.
Disease control practices and methods as they apply to food animals and horses. Includes theory and use of various disease
control practices, such as sanitation, vaccination, and treatments for the various diseases and parasites. Students will learn
common veterinary practices as applied in animal agriculture. 2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory.
Prerequisites: ANSC 101.
A study of approved practices in commercial and purebred sheep production with emphasis on production costs, disease, nutrition,
genetic selection, production records, niche marketing, and contributions of sheep to environmental sustainability. 3.0 hours
laboratory, 2.0 hours lecture. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: ANSC 101.
A study of approved practices in commercial and purebred swine production with emphasis on production costs, disease, reproduction,
nutrition, genetic selection, production records and niche marketing. 2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory. Special fee
required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: ANSC 101
An overview of world and United States animal production systems, emphasizing the scientific principles and management of
large and small ruminants (beef, dairy, sheep, goats), monogastrics (swine, equine), as well as meat, poultry, and aquaculture.
2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: ANSC 101.
Develop skills in quality grading and yield grading animals both live and on the rail. Improve skills in selecting animals
in pasture conditions and develop ability to explain decisions and be able to accurately describe their reasons. Numerous
field trips to fairs and ranches will be required. 2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory. Special fee required; see the
Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: ANSC 101, ANSC 230.
A study of the nutritive requirements of animals for maintenance, growth, lactation, reproduction and other bodily functions.
Intermediary metabolism of nutrients, chemical and animal analysis of feedstuffs, design and implementation of nutrition studies
and writing of a scientific paper. 2.0 hours seminar, 3.0 hours laboratory.
Prerequisites: ANSC 101.
The physiological mechanisms of reproduction in domestic animal species. Principles of reproductive anatomy, gamete formation,
endocrinology, cyclicity and parturition. The laboratory experience will emphasize theory learned in lecture and will include
uses of reproductive technology to maximize reproductive efficiency and fertility. 2.0 hours seminar, 3.0 hours laboratory.
Prerequisites: ANSC 101.
Muscle growth and composition, nutritional and health concerns, meat safety and advances in product development, preparation
and storage. 2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory.
Prerequisites: ANSC 101.
A study of disease processes in livestock. Principles of disease organisms and the physiology of infection. Mechanisms in
which the body combats infections, i.e., immune response. Herd health considerations for disease prevention and treatment.
2.0 hours seminar, 3.0 hours laboratory.
Prerequisites: ANSC 175, ANSC 230, faculty permission.
Advanced topics in the study of horses. Advanced studies will include breeding, genetics, nutrition, disease and parasite
control, exercise physiology, and management practices of the modern horse enterprise. Formulation of least-cost feed rations
and planning in the horse industry are studied.
Prerequisites: Prior approval of academic goals by the Internship Coordinator.
This course is an internship offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. Work
experience with selected livestock operations is to be completed and supervised by faculty and staff of cooperating livestock
ranch. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. Credit/no credit grading only.
This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may
vary from term to term. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered.
Prerequisites: Upper-division standing.
This course is an independent study of a topic or problem and is offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Students must register with a
supervising faculty member. Study/research in animal science under direct supervision of a faculty member. You may take this
course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading only.
Prerequisites: ANSC 101,CHEM 107. CHEM 108 is recommended.
Comparative study of anatomy and physiology of organ systems, with major emphasis on farm animals.
Prerequisites: ANSC 101; CHEM 107 or CHEM 111.
This course is intended for students involved in producing, selling, and handling food products who are interested in a course
on principles of food sanitation and quality control from a management standpoint.
Prerequisites: Senior standing or faculty permission.
Investigation of current and specific problems in the various areas of animal production. You may take this course more than
once for a maximum of 6.0 units.
Prerequisites: ANSC 101.
An overview of world and United States beef production systems. Investigation of the segmentation of the beef industry, including
seedstock, commercial cow-calf, stocker, feedlot, packer, retailer and consumer. Integrated beef production systems will be
evaluated based on consideration of genetics, nutrition, health, reproduction, and product, forage management and marketing.
3.0 hours laboratory, 2.0 hours seminar. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: ANSC 101.
A comprehensive study of large dairy management with emphasis placed on efficient reproduction and nutrition. Additional studies
include evaluation of replacement heifer development scenarios, cow comfort, and record keeping systems. 3.0 hours laboratory,
2.0 hours lecture. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: Faculty Permission
This course is an independent study of special problems offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising
faculty member.
Plant and Soil Science Course Offerings
Plant structure, growth, reproduction, and responses to the environment. How humans modify plants and the environment to grow
crops. 2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory. This is an approved General Education course. Special fee required; see the
Class Schedule.
A study of people, careers, crops, and systems related to crop industries in the area. An opportunity to meet with professionals
and learn about the skills required for research, management, and services that support agricultural production. Meets the
second half of the semester. Credit/no credit grading only.
Prerequisites: CHEM 107 or CHEM 111.
Soil biology, fertility, chemistry, physical properties, taxonomy and their applications to agricultural management and environmental
enhancement. Relationships of soils to the world food supply and population. 2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory. Special
fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Greenhouse construction, environment, and management practices, including heating and cooling, irrigation, fertilization,
and pest control. 3.0 hours laboratory, 2.0 hours lecture.
Prerequisites: At least 21 years of age.
Grape-growing, and winemaking in California wine regions. Wine and food matching. Sensory evaluation. 2.0 hours lecture, 1.0
hours discussion. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: PSSC 101.
Directed work and discussion on all fall aspects of field and row crop production practices applicable to northern California.
Students are encouraged to enroll in PSSC 309B after this course. 2.0 hours activity, 1.0 hours discussion. You may take this
course more than once for a maximum of 4.0 units.
Prerequisites: PSSC 309A or faculty permission.
Directed work and discussion on all spring aspects of field and row crop production practices applicable to northern California.
2.0 hours activity, 1.0 hours discussion. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 4.0 units.
Prerequisites: PSSC 101.
Weekly discussions of orchard projects. Group problems and individual instruction emphasizing fruit set and growth. 2.0 hours
activity, 1.0 hours discussion. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 4.0 units.
Prerequisites: PSSC 101.
Weekly discussions of orchard projects. Group problems and individual instruction emphasizing harvesting and transport, marketing,
pruning, and training systems. 2.0 hours activity, 1.0 hours discussion. You may take this course more than once for a maximum
of 4.0 units.
Prerequisites: PSSC 101.
Directed work and discussion on all aspects of plant production in the greenhouse environment. Plant species may include ornamentals,
crops, and California wildland natives. 2.0 hours activity, 1.0 hours discussion. You may take this course more than once
for a maximum of 4.0 units.
Prerequisites: ANSC 101 or PSSC 101.
A survey of North American rangeland resources and the principles of their use and management, including basic plant-animal-soil
relationships and multiple use.
Prerequisites: PSSC 101. PSSC 330 is recommended.
Physical and biological environments of North American grasslands. Vegetative communities, dynamics, and principal species.
Systematic study and identification of native and some introduced species. 2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory.
Identification of the 200 most important North American rangeland plants (grasses, forbs, shrubs, trees) in all phenological
stages. Participation in statewide and international competition.
Prerequisites: Completion of lower-division core or faculty permission.
History of alteration and loss of wetland and riparian resources. Classification, description, and functions of meadows, marshes,
lakes, rivers, and riparian corridors. Principal uses, impacts, and values. Inventory, monitoring, and management of riparian
resources. 2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: PSSC 101.
A survey of the structure and function of insects, leading to a fundamental understanding of applied insect ecology and taxonomy.
Particular emphasis is placed on arthropod species of economic importance to humans. 3.0 hours laboratory, 2.0 hours lecture.
Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: PSSC 101.
Major diseases of agricultural crops; their symptoms, causal agents, and control methods. Consideration of the roles of environment,
cultural practices, and genetics on crop development. 2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory.
Prerequisites: AGRI 331 or PSSC 101.
Identification, modes of spread, and population ecology of weeds and other invasive plant species. Biological, cultural, mechanical,
and chemical control of weeds and invasive species. Methods of crop/vegetation management to control and reduce weed populations.
2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory.
Prerequisites: CHEM 107 or CHEM 111; PSSC 250.
An examination of materials and application methods used for protecting the health of plants in a manner that is safe for
the environment, applicator, and consumer. Comprises the laws and regulations, safety, application, properties, mode of action,
toxicology, and environmental impacts of pesticides, fertilizers, and other materials used in agriculture. 3.0 hours laboratory,
2.0 hours lecture.
Prerequisites: PSSC 101, PSSC 250.
The physical properties of texture, structure, density, porosity, and consistence will be examined from a production aspect.
Measurement of and changes in these properties will be studied, with interest in the modifications made on the soil by tillage.
Recommended for agriculture majors. 2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory.
Prerequisites: PSSC 250 or instructor permission.
Course examines the capacity of the soil to function within natural and managed ecosystems to sustain plant/animal productivity,
maintain or enhance water and air quality, and support human health and habitation. Soil quality factors include biological,
physical, and chemical soil properties. 2.0 hours activity, 2.0 hours lecture. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: AGRI 331 or PSSC 101.
Ecological processes governing the structure and behavior of cultivated ecosystems. Emphasis on mechanistic and systems views
of the physical and biological environment, photosynthetic productivity, competition, adaptation, nutrient cycling, and energy
relations. 2.0 hours discussion, 3.0 hours laboratory.
Prerequisites: PSSC 101.
This course covers the requirements and cultural practices needed for maximizing yields of annual field crops. Principles
affecting growth development and management will be covered. For field experience, students are advised to enroll in PSSC
309A/PSSC 309B.
Prerequisites: PSSC 101 or PSSC 330.
Grasses and legumes; their production and management for irrigated pastures, hay, silage, and seed. Plant characteristics
and adaptation. 2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory.
Prerequisites: PSSC 101 or faculty permission.
Principles and practices of seed-crop production. Federal, state, and county seed laws. Certified seed program. Seed testing
and laboratory analysis; seed-borne diseases and seed treatments. 2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory.
Prerequisites: PSSC 101.
Managing and optimizing the fruit and nut production system. Selection of planting sites and varieties, tree training and
pruning, pollination, thinning, irrigation, mineral nutrition, and pest management are included. 2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours
laboratory. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: Junior standing, faculty permission.
This course is an internship offered for 1.0-6.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. Internship
with private industry, state, federal, international, or non-profit organization. Selected topic must be in a Plant and Soil
Science Option area. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. Credit/no credit grading only.
How ecological factors, technology, and human values interact to determine available choices of food and its production. Consequences
of these choices in terms of community structures, resource allocations, and stability of agro-ecosystems. This course is
designed to be a component of the Upper-Division Theme on Cross-Cultural Exploration. Not intended for majors, but open to
them. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved Global Cultures course.
A study and analysis of various world agriculture systems that provide food and fiber. Environmental, technological, socio-economic,
and political factors. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved Global Cultures course.
This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may
vary from term to term. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered.
Prerequisites: Upper-division standing.
This course is an independent study of a topic or problem and is offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Students must register with a
supervising faculty member. Study/research in plant science and soil science under direct supervision of a faculty member.
You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading only.
Prerequisites: PSSC 330 and completion of lower-division core.
Vegetation ecology with special reference to grassland, shrubland, and woodland communities and ecosystems. 2.0 hours lecture,
3.0 hours laboratory. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: PSSC 330 and completion of lower-division core.
Dynamics of selected vegetation types of the arid western U.S. Role and impact of herbivory and fire. Use of grazing and fire
in vegetation management.
Prerequisites: PSSC 330 and completion of lower-division core.
Quantitative approaches, methods, and field techniques for the classification, description, and inventory of grasslands, shrublands,
woodlands, and forestlands. 2.0 hours lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: PSSC 330 and completion of the lower-division core.
Nature and impact of continuity and patchiness, of plant and animal movement and of material flow on the structure and dynamics
of wildland and agrarian landscapes. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: AGRI 331; PSSC 340 or PSSC 342 or PSSC 343.
An introduction to the principles and mechanisms of integrated management of insect pests, plant pathogens, and weeds, dealing
with such areas as the agro-ecosystem, population dynamics, and specific approaches to pest management.
Prerequisites: PSSC 250 or faculty permission.
An examination of the factors of soil formation, criteria and systems of soil classification. The laboratory consists of five
all-day field trips. 3.0 hours laboratory, 2.0 hours lecture. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: AGET 360 or PSSC 250.
Computer applications in soils and irrigation, emphasizing hands-on use of various application programs, including irrigation
scheduling, soil salinity, systems, and land-leveling.
Prerequisites: PSSC 250.
Properties of soils, fertilizers, and plant materials. Soil amendments and soil reaction effects on plants. Fertilizer usage.
3.0 hours laboratory, 2.0 hours lecture. Special fee required; see the Class Schedule.
Prerequisites: AGET 360 or faculty permission.
Irrigation water quality, soil salinity, and drainage as related to yield reduction in agricultural production. 2.0 hours
lecture, 3.0 hours laboratory.
Prerequisites: AGET 360 or faculty permission.
Design of sprinkler, drip, furrow, and surface irrigation systems. Includes pump, pipeline, and economics. 3.0 hours laboratory,
2.0 hours seminar.
Prerequisites: PSSC 101; AGRI 305, or faculty permission.
Principles and practices of sexual and asexual reproduction. Physiological, environmental, and industry requirements for quality
seed production, certification. Asexual propagation through cuttings, grafting, budding, micro-propagation, somatic embryogenesis.
3.0 hours laboratory, 2.0 hours lecture.
Prerequisites: BIOL 414.
Principles of tissue culture and related methods. Use in research, plant breeding, and propagation of ornamental, vegetable,
agronomic, and fruit crops. Laboratory organization, media, and current research. 3.0 hours laboratory, 2.0 hours lecture.
Prerequisites: PSSC 389, senior/graduate standing, faculty permission.
Internship with private industry, state, federal, international, or non-profit organization. Selected topic must be in a PSSC
option area. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. Credit/no credit grading only.
This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may
vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered.