FRS 001C —
Sec. 001 —
(1 unit) — CRN 45474 — F 11:00-11:50 am — 355A Hutchison
Agriculture’s Role in the Conservation of
Wildlands
Instructor: R. Michael Davis, Department of Plant Pathology, College
of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences
Description: The subject matter discusses the conflict between
agriculture and wildlife conservation. The goal of the course is to introduce
students to alternate views on the impact of agriculture on the
environment. Despite
the persuasive negative views of the media on agribusinesses, maximum
inputs into
farming (including pesticides and biotechnologies) and maximum yields per unit
of farmland may be the key to the preservation of current and future wildlands.
In fact, it has been suggested that maximum yields on existing croplands may be
the single most important factor in halting wildlife habitat
destruction. In addition,
there exists a dynamic group of farmers who maintain that profitable
farming can
include hedgerows, ponds, native plantings, etc., all which enhance
wildlife habitats.
Information will be presented through informal lectures, readings,
and discussion.
Students will discuss selected readings assigned each week.
Format: The seminar will meet for one hour each week. The time
will be divided between discussions, informal lectures, and student
presentations.
Reading material will be provided. Students and the instructor will
discuss assigned
readings each week. Students will write a paper (minimum 2000 words) on a topic
chosen in consultation with the instructor. The paper must present pro and con
arguments on the chosen topic. Students will argue a case, complete
with references,
in support of the view they believe correct. The paper will include
an oral presentation.
A one-hour field trip during regular class hours to a local farm will
be arranged.
Grading: The course grade will be based on the quality
of their written paper (25%) the oral (presentation (25%), and class
participation
(50%).
About the Instructor: Professor Davis is a member of
the faculty
in the Department of Plant Pathology. His research interests include
the epidemiology
and control of diseases of vegetable and field crops, including
tomatoes, carrots,
onions, potatoes, corn, and cotton. He is Cooperative Extension Specialist with
a 20% I&R appointment. He teaches courses on mushroom production
and taxonomy
and a field course on vegetable and row crop diseases. He works
closely with various
ag industries in California and is UC liaison officer to two
commodity boards.