Crop and Soil Science
The discipline of crop science provides the knowledge and understanding of technologies that contribute directly to improvements in production and quality of food, feed, fiber, seed, energy, and nutraceutical crops for the world. The art and science of plant improvement are key elements in efforts to feed, clothe and provide energy for the world’s ever-growing population. Conventional and molecular tools assist in the development of new genetic strains of food and energy crops. Crop plants play an important role in the future of sustainable food and energy production.
The discipline of soil science provides the basic understanding of the physical, chemical, and biological properties of this important natural resource. Why is soil important? Soil is the fundamental substrate for life on terrestrial landscapes. Soil plays a vital role in sustaining human welfare and assuring future agricultural productivity and environmental stability. An understanding of global and local ecology depends on an awareness of the soil and its properties. Global information and mapping systems are essential tools for characterizing the landscape and its constituent soils.
Agronomists are crop and soil scientists who work to improve crops and agricultural productivity while effectively managing pests and weeds. Students in crop and soil science explore important contemporary issues faced by our society, including water quality and management, sustainability of different types of crop production, organic crop production, erosion and sedimentation, growing crops for biofuel production, land use and reclamation, genetic modification of crop plants, and soil quality and sustainability. An array of careers is available.
Career Opportunities
Careers for crop scientists are available in business, industry, farming, research, agricultural chemical industries, seed production, seed technology, communications, conservation, and education. Positions are available in agricultural experiment stations and extension services, state departments of agriculture, food processing companies, insurance agencies, lending institutions, and commercial firms, both domestic and international, dealing in the processing and sale of farm products, chemicals, and seed.
Careers for soil scientists are available in agriculture, forestry, education, state and federal resource agencies, private consulting, and research. Farms, ranches, and agricultural supply companies employ soil scientists as managers or field representatives. Soil scientists may become teachers of vocational agriculture or environmental education, or they may become county extension agents in agriculture or natural resources. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service and Natural Resources Conservation Service often employ soil scientists, as do private consulting firms in environmental engineering and land use planning.
Academic Advising
Undergraduate curricula in crop and soil science are flexible enough to provide for the student's individual professional needs and interests and for a broad-based general education by allowing electives in other colleges throughout the university. Undergraduate advising is a vital part of the program, and the department is well known for excellence in advising. The department has a head advisor who meets with all students each term. Advisors and faculty provide curricular guidance and aid in professional extracurricular activities, career decisions, and job placement.
Scholarships
The Department of Crop and Soil Science administers a number of scholarships available only to students majoring in the department. Over $40,000 is given to students each year.
Student Clubs
The department supports a Crop Science Club that provides valuable co-curricular professional development, a collegiate Soil Judging Team that participates in both regional and national competitions, the OSU Organic Growers Club that provides hands-on experience in organic production of vegetable crops, and the OSU Bug Club, a student club whose members are actively engaged in insect education outreach to local schools and communities. Graduate students in soil science also have a student club.
Manoj Shukla, Department Head
109B Crop Science Building
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR 97331
Phone: 541-737-5981
Email: manoj.shukla@oregonstate.edu
Website: https://cropandsoil.oregonstate.edu/
Faculty
https://cropandsoil.oregonstate.edu/cropandsoil/people/faculty
Staff
https://cropandsoil.oregonstate.edu/cropandsoil/people/administration
Crop Science (CROP)
CROP 101, +INTRODUCTION TO CROP, SOIL, AND INSECT SCIENCE, 1 Credit
Introduces students with interests in crop, soil, and insect sciences to educational and professional opportunities in these disciplines. Discusses opportunities in research and academia as well as in the applied professional job market. CROSSLISTED as CROP 101/ENT 101/SOIL 101.
Attributes: CSC1 – Core Ed - Beyond OSU Career Preparation
Prerequisite: CORE 100 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or CORE 300 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or BA 100 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or BA 300 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or ED 100 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or ED 300 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or LA 100 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or LA 300 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or SCI 100 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or SCI 300 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or ENGR 110 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or ENGR 110H (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or ENGR 310 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or Baccalaureate Core Student with a score of 1
Equivalent to: ENT 101, SOIL 101
Available via Ecampus
CROP 199, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 200, CROP ECOLOGY AND MORPHOLOGY, 4 Credits
Introduces the concepts and principles of crop ecology, morphology, and agroecology. Examines the dynamics and function of crop communities, the biotic and environmental interactions that influence crop productivity, and complex factors impacting agroecological systems. Focuses on the fundamentals of the morphological features of seeds and plants in relation to the identification of crop families and species of economic importance. Explores agroecological scientific processes and resulting impacts on cropping systems.
Recommended: Knowledge of general plant biology, basic mathematics, and unit cancellations
Available via Ecampus
CROP 280, INTRODUCTION TO THE COMPLEXITY OF OREGON CROPPING SYSTEMS, 4 Credits
An introduction to field cropping systems of western Oregon. Provides students with a broad overview of the complexity of cropping systems and the knowledge required to grow and produce a crop--plant physiology, seed biology, plant pathology, soil fertility, entomology, and weed science. Students will observe a crop under different management strategies to enhance understanding of management approaches.
Available via Ecampus
CROP 300, CROP PRODUCTION IN PACIFIC NORTHWEST AGROECOSYSTEMS, 4 Credits
Relation of crop production to human culture and the natural environment. Origins of agriculture and the processes of agricultural change, and productivity and sustainability of specific crop production systems in the Pacific Northwest. History, geography, resource requirements, and key challenges faced are presented. Fundamental crop production practices in relation to productivity and sustainability. CROSSLISTED as CROP 300/HORT 300.
Equivalent to: HORT 300
Recommended: One year of general biology
Available via Ecampus
CROP 310, FORAGE PRODUCTION, 4 Credits
Importance of, and current production practices for, forage crops.
Recommended: (CROP 300 or HORT 300) and (CSS 205 or SOIL 205)
Available via Ecampus
CROP 325, ^AG AND ENVIRONMENTAL PREDICAMENTS: A CASE STUDY APPROACH, 3 Credits
Analyze controversial agricultural and environmental issues, synthesize information from diverse sources, and apply scientific knowledge to recommend specific courses of action to solve real world problems. Develop oral and written communication skills through individual and group work. CROSSLISTED as CROP 325/SOIL 325/SUS 325.
Attributes: CSWC – Core Ed - Writing Intensive Curriculum (WIC); CWIC – Bacc Core, Skills, Writing Intensive Curriculum (WIC)
CROP 330, *WORLD FOOD CROPS, 3 Credits
Origin, production, utilization, and improvement of the world's major food crops. The role of crop production in global economic and social development; food security and worldwide nutritional requirements.
Attributes: CSGI – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Contemporary Global Issues
Recommended: CROP 200
Available via Ecampus
CROP 340, *PENS AND PLOWS: WRITINGS OF WORKING THE LAND, 3 Credits
A survey of literature from ancient Greece to the twentieth century focusing on the significance of agricultural life and/or the natural world. Students read and discuss writings considered critical in the development of Western culture and receive input on the literary significance and the accuracy of agriculture presented within the readings.
Attributes: CPWC – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Western Culture
CROP 355, ORGANIC CERTIFICATION, 3 Credits
Learn about the USDA National Organic Program (NOP) standards relating to certified operations, inspection, certification processes, and labeling. Focus on the crops, processing, and livestock aspects of organic certification for farms and food manufacturing operations.
Available via Ecampus
CROP 401, RESEARCH, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
CROP 403, THESIS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
CROP 405, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: CROP 405H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 405H, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: CROP 405
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 410, INTERNSHIP, 1-6 Credits
This course is repeatable for 12 credits.
Available via Ecampus
CROP 414, PRECISION AGRICULTURE, 4 Credits
Provides insight into the technology available to support precision agriculture and data management planning applications. Examines the concepts and applications of precision agriculture to teach practical use of hardware, equipment and software. An overview of current technology including autonomous vehicles, GPS, soil and crop proximal sensors, imagery and mapping, variable rate control systems, and yield monitors. CROSSLISTED as CROP 414/HORT 414.
Equivalent to: HORT 414
Available via Ecampus
CROP 420, SEED SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, 3 Credits
Seed formation and factors affecting their development and maturation. Seed structure and chemical composition. Physiological and biochemical aspects of seed germination, dormancy, deterioration and storability. The concept of seed quality, its importance in agriculture, its attributes and impact on field performance. Methods of measuring seed quality of conventional and genetically modified seeds.
Recommended: Biology, plant anatomy and/or physiology courses
Available via Ecampus
CROP 430, ORGANIC SOIL AND CROP MANAGEMENT, 3 Credits
Explores organic soil and crop management, organic soil system management, soil microbiology under organic systems, cropping systems, organic cereal production systems, organic forage production system, organic horticultural systems management, organic field and horticulture cropping systems. CROSSLISTED as CROP 430/SOIL 430.
Equivalent to: SOIL 430
Recommended: AGRI 420, CROP 200, SOIL 205 or introductory biology
Available via Ecampus
CROP 433, SYSTEMATICS AND ADAPTATION OF VEGETABLE CROPS, 4 Credits
Covers the botanical and taxonomic relationships, breeding systems and adaptation of vegetable crops. Fresh material is used to illustrate varietal differences and traits of importance. CROSSLISTED as CROP 433/HORT 433.
Prerequisite: BI 102 with D- or better or BI 213 with D- or better or BI 213H with D- or better or BI 223Z with D- or better or BI 223HZ with D- or better or BI 223 with D- or better or BI 223H with D- or better or BI 311 with D- or better or BI 311H with D- or better or HORT 430 with D- or better or CSS 430 with D- or better or PBG 430 with D- or better or HORT 450 with D- or better or CSS 450 with D- or better or PBG 450 with D- or better
Equivalent to: HORT 433
CROP 440, WEED MANAGEMENT, 4 Credits
Principles of weed control by cultural, biological, and chemical means; weed identification; introduction to herbicides and factors influencing their use.
Recommended: One year biological science and one course in organic chemistry.
Available via Ecampus
CROP 448, LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION ON PASTURE, 4 Credits
Focuses on grazing management in cultivated pastures in Oregon and other regions with similar agro-ecological conditions. Become familiar with the basic principles of pasture production, grazing management and feed planning and management in large and small ruminant production systems. Provides information on the underlying factors affecting pasture and animal production and product quality in pasture-based production systems. CROSSLISTED as ANS 448/CROP 448/RNG 448.
CROP 460, SEED PRODUCTION, 3 Credits
An introduction to principles and practices of seed-based genetic delivery systems. Fundamentals of seed crop biology, cultivar maintenance and production methods are stressed. Concepts are illustrated using Pacific Northwest seed crops.
Recommended: CROP 200
Available via Ecampus
CROP 463, SEED BIOLOGY, 3 Credits
Information about reproductive development of plants such as pollination and fertilization, which is important for the initiation of seed formation, will be provided. Embryo and endosperm development as well as accumulation of seed storage materials, which are major events during seed development, will be covered, as well as the dormancy and germination mechanisms in mature seeds. CROSSLISTED as CROP 463/HORT 463.
Equivalent to: HORT 463
CROP 475, PRINCIPLES OF CANNABACEAE PRODUCTION: HEMP AND HOPS, 3 Credits
Explores hemp and hops history, products, utilization, phytochemistry, organic and conventional production systems, including rotation, fertilization, weed and pest control, multiple utilization streams, harvesting, postharvest operations.
Prerequisite: AGRI 420 with C or better or CROP 430 with C or better or CSS 205 with C or better or CSS 305 with C or better or CSS 315 with C or better or HORT 316 with C or better or HORT 421 with C or better or SOIL 205 with C or better or SOIL 205H with C or better or SOIL 430 with C or better or WSE 266 with C or better
Equivalent to: CROP 475X
CROP 480, CASE STUDIES IN CROPPING SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT, 4 Credits
Analyzes decision cases involving the production of field and horticultural crops; individual and group activities; discussion of the decision-making process. CROSSLISTED as CROP 480/HORT 480.
Equivalent to: HORT 480
Recommended: CROP 300/HORT 300 or HORT 301; prior knowledge of plant physiology, soils, entomology, weed science, plant pathology, and plant nutrition
Available via Ecampus
CROP 499, SPECIAL TOPICS IN CROP SCIENCE AND SOIL SCIENCE, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: CROP 499H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 499H, SPECIAL TOPICS IN CROP SCIENCE AND SOIL SCIENCE, 1-16 Credits
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: CROP 499
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 501, RESEARCH, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 503, THESIS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 999 credits.
CROP 505, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 506, PROJECTS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 507, SEMINAR, 1 Credit
This course is repeatable for 99 credits.
CROP 509, PRACTICUM IN TEACHING, 1-3 Credits
Developing skills and competence in teaching under staff supervision; organization and presentation of instructional material by assisting in laboratory, recitation, and lectures. CROSSLISTED as CROP 509/ENT 509/PBG 509/SOIL 509.
Equivalent to: CSS 509, ENT 509, PBG 509, SOIL 509
This course is repeatable for 9 credits.
CROP 514, PRECISION AGRICULTURE, 4 Credits
Provides insight into the technology available to support precision agriculture and data management planning applications. Examines the concepts and applications of precision agriculture to teach practical use of hardware, equipment and software. An overview of current technology including autonomous vehicles, GPS, soil and crop proximal sensors, imagery and mapping, variable rate control systems, and yield monitors.
Available via Ecampus
CROP 520, SEED SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, 3 Credits
Seed formation and factors affecting their development and maturation. Seed structure and chemical composition. Physiological and biochemical aspects of seed germination, dormancy, deterioration and storability. The concept of seed quality, its importance in agriculture, its attributes and impact on field performance. Methods of measuring seed quality of conventional and genetically modified seeds.
Recommended: Biology, plant anatomy and/or physiology courses
Available via Ecampus
CROP 530, ORGANIC SOIL AND CROP MANAGEMENT, 3 Credits
Explores organic soil and crop management, organic soil system management, soil microbiology under organic systems, cropping systems, organic cereal production systems, organic forage production system, organic horticultural systems management, organic field and horticulture cropping systems. CROSSLISTED as CROP 530/SOIL 530.
Equivalent to: SOIL 530
Recommended: AGRI 520, SOIL 525 or introductory biology
Available via Ecampus
CROP 533, SYSTEMATICS AND ADAPTATION OF VEGETABLE CROPS, 4 Credits
Covers the botanical and taxonomic relationships, breeding systems and adaptation of vegetable crops. Fresh material is used to illustrate varietal differences and traits of importance. CROP 533/HORT 533.
Equivalent to: HORT 533
Recommended: BI 102 or BI 213 or BI 223 or BI 311 or HORT 430 or CSS 430 or PBG 430 or HORT 450 or CSS 450 or PBG 450
CROP 540, WEED MANAGEMENT, 4 Credits
Principles of weed control by cultural, biological, and chemical means; weed identification; introduction to herbicides and factors influencing their use.
Recommended: One year biological science and one course in organic chemistry.
Available via Ecampus
CROP 560, SEED PRODUCTION, 3 Credits
An introduction to principles and practices of seed-based genetic delivery systems. Fundamentals of seed crop biology, cultivar maintenance and production methods are stressed. Concepts are illustrated using Pacific Northwest seed crops.
Recommended: CROP 200
Available via Ecampus
CROP 563, SEED BIOLOGY, 3 Credits
Information about reproductive development of plants such as pollination and fertilization, which is important for the initiation of seed formation, will be provided. Embryo and endosperm development as well as accumulation of seed storage materials, which are major events during seed development, will be covered, as well as the dormancy and germination mechanisms in mature seeds. CROSSLISTED as CROP 563/HORT 563.
Equivalent to: HORT 563
CROP 575, PRINCIPLES OF CANNABACEAE PRODUCTION: HEMP AND HOPS, 3 Credits
Explores hemp and hops history, products, utilization, phytochemistry, organic and conventional production systems, including rotation, fertilization, weed and pest control, multiple utilization streams, harvesting, postharvest operations.
Prerequisite: AGRI 520 with C or better or CROP 530 with C or better or HORT 521 with C or better or SOIL 525 with C or better or SOIL 530 with C or better
Equivalent to: CROP 575X
CROP 580, CASE STUDIES IN CROPPING SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT, 4 Credits
Analyzes decision cases involving the production of field and horticultural crops; individual and group activities; discussion of the decision-making process. CROSSLISTED as CROP 580/HORT 580.
Equivalent to: HORT 580
Available via Ecampus
CROP 590, EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN IN AGRICULTURE, 4 Credits
Field layout, analysis, and interpretation of basic experimental designs used in agronomy and plant breeding and including field plot techniques such as optimum plot size and shape, factorial arrangement, replication, sub-sampling, randomization, and blocking.
Recommended: ST 351
CROP 599, SPECIAL TOPICS IN CROP SCIENCE AND SOIL SCIENCE, 0-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 601, RESEARCH, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: CSS 601
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 603, THESIS, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: CSS 603
This course is repeatable for 999 credits.
CROP 605, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: CSS 605
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 606, PROJECTS, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: CSS 606
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 607, SEMINAR, 1 Credit
Equivalent to: CSS 607
This course is repeatable for 99 credits.
CROP 608, WORKSHOP, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: CSS 608
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
CROP 609, PRACTICUM IN TEACHING, 1-3 Credits
Developing skills and competence in teaching under staff supervision; organization and presentation of instructional material by assisting in laboratory, recitation, and lectures.
Equivalent to: ENT 609, PBG 609, SOIL 609
This course is repeatable for 9 credits.
CROP 699, SPECIAL TOPICS IN CROP SCIENCE AND SOIL SCIENCE, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: CSS 699
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Crop and Soil Science (CSS)
CSS 205, +*SOIL SCIENCE, 4 Credits
Introduces the chemical, physical, and biological nature of soils. Examines the functions of soil as a medium for plant growth, a recycling system for nutrients and wastes, a modifier of atmospheric chemistry, a habitat for soil organisms, a system for water purification, and an engineering medium. Provides an understanding of fundamental soil science principles and the impact of human activities on soil quality and sustainability through field and laboratory projects.
Attributes: CFSI – Core Ed - Scientific Inquiry & Analysis; CPPS – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Physical Science
Equivalent to: CSS 305, SOIL 205, SOIL 205H
Available via Ecampus
Soil Science (SOIL)
SOIL 101, +INTRODUCTION TO CROP, SOIL, AND INSECT SCIENCE, 1 Credit
Introduces students with interests in crop, soil, and insect sciences to educational and professional opportunities in these disciplines. Discusses opportunities in research and academia as well as in the applied professional job market. CROSSLISTED as CROP 101/ENT 101/SOIL 101.
Attributes: CSC1 – Core Ed - Beyond OSU Career Preparation
Prerequisite: CORE 100 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or CORE 300 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or BA 100 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or BA 300 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or ED 100 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or ED 300 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or LA 100 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or LA 300 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or SCI 100 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or SCI 300 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or ENGR 110 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or ENGR 110H (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or ENGR 310 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or Baccalaureate Core Student with a score of 1
Equivalent to: CROP 101, ENT 101
Available via Ecampus
SOIL 199, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: SOIL 199H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 199H, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: SOIL 199
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 205, SOIL SCIENCE, 3 Credits
Introduces the chemical, physical and biological nature of soils. Examines how soils function in terms of plant growth, nutrient supply, the global carbon cycle, ecological habitat, and water purification. Provides hands-on experience with fundamental soil science principles and the impact of human activities on soil quality and sustainability through community-based learning projects. (Core Education or Bacc Core Course if taken with SOIL 206 or FOR 206)
Attributes: CPPL – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Physical Science Attached Lecture
Prerequisite: SOIL 206 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or SOIL 206H (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or FOR 206 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better
SOIL 205H, SOIL SCIENCE, 3 Credits
Introduces the chemical, physical and biological nature of soils. Examines how soils function in terms of plant growth, nutrient supply, the global carbon cycle, ecological habitat, and water purification. Provides hands-on experience with fundamental soil science principles and the impact of human activities on soil quality and sustainability through community-based learning projects. (Core Education or Bacc Core Course if taken with SOIL 206 or FOR 206)
Attributes: CPPL – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Physical Science Attached Lecture; HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Prerequisite: SOIL 206 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or SOIL 206H (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or FOR 206 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better
SOIL 206, +*SOIL SCIENCE LABORATORY FOR SOIL 205, 1 Credit
Gains hands-on experience with soil science concepts and applications. Develops proficiency in the methods/tools for analyzing soil chemistry, biology, morphology, physical properties, and soil forming factors through laboratory exercises and field trips. Emphasizes skills in the context of soils' social, economic, and environmental importance. (Core Education or Bacc Core Course if taken with SOIL 205)
Attributes: CPPS – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Physical Science
Corequisites: SOIL 205
SOIL 206H, +*SOIL SCIENCE LABORATORY FOR SOIL 205, 1 Credit
Gains hands-on experience with soil science concepts and applications. Develops proficiency in the methods/tools for analyzing soil chemistry, biology, morphology, physical properties, and soil forming factors through laboratory exercises and field trips. Emphasizes skills in the context of soils' social, economic, and environmental importance. (Core Education or Bacc Core Course if taken with SOIL 205)
Attributes: CPPS – Bacc Core, Perspectives, Physical Science; HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Corequisites: SOIL 205
SOIL 299, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: SOIL 299H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 299H, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: SOIL 299
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 316, NUTRIENT CYCLING IN AGROECOSYSTEMS, 4 Credits
Nutrient forms, transformations, and cycling. Diagnosis and correction of nutrient deficiencies, pH and salinity. Impact of nutrient management practices on crop production, soil health, nutrient use efficiency, and environmental quality. Organic and inorganic fertilization. Labs include soil sampling and testing procedures, data collection on soil and plants, computer applications for soil fertility management, and field trips.
Prerequisite: (CH 121 with D- or better or CH 221Z with D- or better or CH 221HZ with D- or better or CH 231 with D- or better or CH 231H with D- or better) and (SOIL 205 [C] or SOIL 205H [C] or CSS 205 [C] or CSS 305 [C])
Available via Ecampus
SOIL 325, ^AG AND ENVIRONMENTAL PREDICAMENTS: A CASE STUDY APPROACH, 3 Credits
Analyze controversial agricultural and environmental issues, synthesize information from diverse sources, and apply scientific knowledge to recommend specific courses of action to solve real world problems. Develop oral and written communication skills through individual and group work. CROSSLISTED as CROP 325/SOIL 325/SUS 325.
Attributes: CSWC – Core Ed - Writing Intensive Curriculum (WIC); CWIC – Bacc Core, Skills, Writing Intensive Curriculum (WIC)
SOIL 360, SOIL MANAGEMENT FOR ORGANIC PRODUCTION, 3 Credits
This is a skills-based soil management course that is part lecture and part student-centered learning. Significant class time will be devoted to making field-scale management decisions. The course includes individual and group work, presentation, and discussion. The intent is to prepare students for real-world application of soil management decisions in certified organic systems. Using the National Organic Program as a starting point as well as farm system descriptions with extensive long-term data sets, we will interpret soil nutrient analyses, cover cropping systems, and organic amendments, to design soil management plans for two model cropping systems (annual and perennial).
Prerequisite: CSS 205 with C or better or CSS 305 with C or better or ((SOIL 205 with C or better or SOIL 205H with C or better) and (SOIL 206 [C] or SOIL 206H [C] or FOR 206 [C]))
Recommended: Introductory soil science course with lab
Available via Ecampus
SOIL 366, ECOSYSTEMS OF WILDLAND SOILS, 3 Credits
Focuses on soils that occur in relatively undisturbed ecosystems such as forests and rangelands. Topics covered include properties and processes specific to understanding and managing the soil resource in these areas. An overview of US Soil Taxonomy will also be given.
Prerequisite: SOIL 205 with D- or better or SOIL 205H with D- or better or CSS 205 with D- or better or CSS 305 with D- or better
Recommended: An understanding and appreciation of environmental chemistry, biology, ecology, and physics
Available via Ecampus
SOIL 388, SOIL SYSTEMS AND PLANT GROWTH, 4 Credits
Introduces soils as providers of critical resources for plant growth. Explains how soils supply water, air, thermal energy and nutrients to plants. Shows that sustainable management of soil resources requires substantial understanding of their role in the functioning of natural, forest, and agricultural systems. Explains controls on stocks and availabilities of individual soil resources and mechanisms making these resources plant-available.
Prerequisite: (( (SOIL 205 with D- or better or SOIL 205H with D- or better) and (SOIL 206 [D-] or SOIL 206H [D-] or FOR 206 [D-])) or CSS 205 [D-]) and (CH 121 [D-] or CH 201 [D-] or CH 221Z [D-] or CH 221HZ [D-] or CH 231 [D-] or CH 231H [D-]) and (BOT 220 [D-] or BI 204 [D-] or BI 221Z [D-] or BI 221HZ [D-] or BI 221 [D-] or BI 221H [D-])
Available via Ecampus
SOIL 395, ^WORLD SOIL RESOURCES, 3 Credits
The properties, global distribution, and agricultural productivity of major world soil groups are described. Potentials for human-accelerated soil degradation are introduced for each soil group, and reasons for conflicting assessments of degradation are discussed. Check prereqs
Attributes: CSWC – Core Ed - Writing Intensive Curriculum (WIC); CWIC – Bacc Core, Skills, Writing Intensive Curriculum (WIC)
Prerequisite: CH 121 with D- or better or CH 201 with D- or better or CH 221Z with D- or better or CH 221HZ with D- or better or CH 231 with D- or better or CH 231H with D- or better
Available via Ecampus
SOIL 399, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 401, RESEARCH, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: CSS 401
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
SOIL 403, THESIS, 1-16 Credits
Independent, original study and preparation of a senior thesis.
Equivalent to: CSS 403
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
SOIL 405, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: SOIL 405H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 405H, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: SOIL 405
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 408, WORKSHOP, 1-16 Credits
Evaluation and judging of soils in Oregon and other states; directed studies of soil morphology, soil survey, soil fertility, soil physics, soil chemistry, soil biology, and soil information systems.
Equivalent to: CSS 408
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 409, PRACTICUM, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 410, INTERNSHIP, 1-6 Credits
Professional work experience previously approved and supervised by the department, written report required.
Equivalent to: CSS 410
This course is repeatable for 12 credits.
Available via Ecampus
SOIL 430, ORGANIC SOIL AND CROP MANAGEMENT, 3 Credits
Explores organic soil and crop management, organic soil system management, soil microbiology under organic systems, cropping systems, organic cereal production systems, organic forage production system, organic horticultural systems management, organic field and horticulture cropping systems. CROSSLISTED as CROP 430/SOIL 430.
Equivalent to: CROP 430
Recommended: AGRI 420, CROP 200, SOIL 205 or introductory biology
Available via Ecampus
SOIL 435, ENVIRONMENTAL SOIL PHYSICS, 3 Credits
Covers principles of soil physical properties and processes as they relate to agricultural, hydrological and environmental problems.
Prerequisite: CSS 205 with D- or better or CSS 305 with D- or better or SOIL 205 with D- or better or SOIL 205H with D- or better
Recommended: CH 123 and MTH 241 and PH 201
Available via Ecampus
SOIL 445, ENVIRONMENTAL SOIL CHEMISTRY, 3 Credits
Emphasizes structural chemistry of clay minerals and organic matter, cation and anion exchange, and soil solution equilibria of soils. Ion exchange, mineral-solution equilibria, and adsorption reactions of silicate clays, oxides, and organic matter are emphasized. Covers the sorption behavior of environmental contaminants and the weathering reactions that govern the transport of reactive solutes through soils.
Prerequisite: (CSS 205 with D- or better or CSS 305 with D- or better or ((SOIL 205 with D- or better or SOIL 205H with D- or better) and (SOIL 206 [D-] or SOIL 206H [D-] or FOR 206 [D-])) ) and (CH 122 [D-] or CH 202 [D-] or ((CH 222Z [D-] or CH 222HZ [D-] or CH 232 [D-] or CH 232H [D-]) and (CH 228Z [D-] or CH 228HZ [D-] or CH 262 [D-] or CH 262H [D-] or CH 272 [D-])) )
Recommended: SOIL 316 or SOIL 388
Available via Ecampus
SOIL 455, BIOLOGY OF SOIL ECOSYSTEMS, 4 Credits
Provides a detailed study of the organisms that live in the soil and their activities in the soil ecosystems, soil as a habitat for organisms, taxonomy and biology of soil organisms, fundamentals of nutrient cycles, special topics in soil biology, review basis of soil microbial and ecological principles.
Prerequisite: (CSS 205 with D- or better or CSS 305 with D- or better or ((SOIL 205 with D- or better or SOIL 205H with D- or better) and (SOIL 206 [D-] or SOIL 206H [D-] or FOR 206 [D-])) ) and (( (BI 221Z [D-] or BI 221HZ [D-]) and (BI 222Z [D-] or BI 222HZ [D-]) and (BI 223Z [D-] or BI 223HZ [D-])) or ((BI 221 [D-] or BI 221H [D-]) and (BI 222 [D-] or BI 222H [D-]) and (BI 223 [D-] or BI 223H [D-])) or (BI 204 [D-] and BI 205 [D-] and BI 206 [D-])) and (CH 122 [D-] or CH 202 [D-] or ((CH 222Z [D-] or CH 222HZ [D-] or CH 232 [D-] or CH 232H [D-]) and (CH 228Z [D-] or CH 228HZ [D-] and CH 262 [D-] or CH 262H [D-] or CH 272 [D-])) )
Recommended: MB 302 and CH 331
Available via Ecampus
SOIL 466, SOIL MORPHOLOGY AND CLASSIFICATION, 4 Credits
Observation and description of soil properties in the field; writing soil profile descriptions; evaluating criteria that define features used to classify soils; using soil classification keys.
Prerequisite: SOIL 205 with D- or better or SOIL 205H with D- or better or CSS 205 with D- or better or CSS 305 with D- or better
Available via Ecampus
SOIL 468, SOIL LANDSCAPE ANALYSIS, 4 Credits
Principles of soil geomorphology, soil stratigraphy, and surficial processes as applied to understanding the soil system and landscape scales. Emphasis on field observations of soils, geomorphic surfaces, and environment. Field project entails design of soil survey map units, field mapping and GIS cartographic techniques.
Prerequisite: SOIL 466 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better or CSS 466 (may be taken concurrently) with D- or better
Available via Ecampus
SOIL 499, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: SOIL 499H
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 499H, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Equivalent to: SOIL 499
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 501, RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 503, THESIS/DISSERTATION, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 999 credits.
SOIL 505, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 506, PROJECTS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 507, SEMINAR, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 508, WORKSHOP, 1-16 Credits
Evaluation and judging of soils in Oregon and other states; directed studies of soil morphology, soil survey, soil fertility, soil physics, soil chemistry, soil biology, and soil information systems.
Equivalent to: CSS 508
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 509, PRACTICUM IN TEACHING, 1-3 Credits
Developing skills and competence in teaching under staff supervision; organization and presentation of instructional material by assisting in laboratory, recitation, and lectures. CROSSLISTED as CROP 509/ENT 509/PBG 509/SOIL 509.
Equivalent to: CROP 509, ENT 509, PBG 509
This course is repeatable for 9 credits.
SOIL 510, INTERNSHIP, 1-6 Credits
Professional work experience previously approved and supervised by the department, written report required.
This course is repeatable for 6 credits.
SOIL 511, SOIL: A NATURAL AND SOCIETAL RESOURCE, 3 Credits
Serves degree- and non-degree-seeking graduate learners wanting soil science knowledge but having minimal science background. Understanding soil physical, chemical, and biological properties promotes informed soil management while supporting individual to global societal values. Established curriculum facilitates graduate degrees or certificates, continuing education, professional certification, and self-improvement goals. A highly interactive social media framework supports weekly student-student and instructor-student learning interactions. CROSSLISTED as FES 513/SOIL 511.
Equivalent to: FES 513
SOIL 512, METHODS OF SOIL ANALYSIS - FIELD, 1 Credit
Recognition and quantitative description of soil properties in agroecosystems. Assessments of soil environments used for crop production in Oregon. Demonstration and practice of volumetric and bulk soil sampling techniques as well as the application of pedotransfer functions. Each participant will be responsible for analyzing at least one soil sample in the chemical level. Five-day duration with four overnight stays at campgrounds. Participants will use their own or borrowed camping equipment.
Recommended: SOIL 205 with a minimum grade of C
SOIL 514, METHODS OF SOIL ANALYSIS - LABORATORY, 2 Credits
Provide the theoretical background, as well as practical experience needed to plan, select, execute, and interpret soil chemical and physical analyses such as those typically used for nutrient management recommendations. Individual and group activities involve classroom presentations, as well as hands-on work in a teaching laboratory. Samples processed are those collected in SOIL 512, Methods of Soil Analysis - Field. Duration is five full work days.
Prerequisite: SOIL 512 (may be taken concurrently) with C or better
Recommended: SOIL 205 and successful completion of EH&S Laboratory
SOIL 515, SOIL FERTILITY MANAGEMENT, 3 Credits
Management of plant nutrients in agronomic systems; diagnosis of nutrient availability and prediction of crop response to fertilizers; interactions between nutrient response and chemical, physical and biological properties of soils.
Recommended: CSS 315 and courses in statistics, chemistry and plant physiology.
SOIL 525, MINERAL-ORGANIC MATTER INTERACTIONS, 3 Credits
Studies the fundamental properties of the mineral-organic interface and the mechanisms of interaction between mineral and organic soil properties.
Equivalent to: CSS 525
SOIL 530, ORGANIC SOIL AND CROP MANAGEMENT, 3 Credits
Explores organic soil and crop management, organic soil system management, soil microbiology under organic systems, cropping systems, organic cereal production systems, organic forage production system, organic horticultural systems management, organic field and horticulture cropping systems. CROSSLISTED as CROP 530/SOIL 530.
Equivalent to: CROP 530
Recommended: AGRI 520, SOIL 525 or introductory biology
Available via Ecampus
SOIL 535, SOIL PHYSICS, 3 Credits
Theoretical elements of soil physical properties and processes related to agricultural, hydrological and environmental problems.
Recommended: CSS 305, CSS 205, SOIL 205, MTH 241, CH 123, PH 201
SOIL 545, ENVIRONMENTAL SOIL CHEMISTRY, 3 Credits
Emphasizes structural chemistry of clay minerals and organic matter, cation and anion exchange, and soil solution equilibria of soils. Ion exchange, mineral-solution equilibria, and adsorption reactions of silicate clays, oxides, and organic matter are emphasized. Covers the sorption behavior of environmental contaminants and the weathering reactions that govern the transport of reactive solutes through soils.
Recommended: (CSS 205 or (SOIL 205 and (SOIL 206 or FOR 206))) and (CH 122 or CH 202 or (CH 232 and (CH 262 or CH 272)))
Available via Ecampus
SOIL 555, BIOLOGY OF SOIL ECOSYSTEMS, 4 Credits
Provides a detailed study of the organisms that live in the soil and their activities in the soil ecosystems, soil as a habitat for organisms, taxonomy and biology of soil organisms, fundamentals of nutrient cycles, special topics in soil biology, review basis of soil microbial and ecological principles.
Available via Ecampus
SOIL 560, SOIL FOR EDUCATORS, 3 Credits
Explores soil, its properties, and the use of soil as a medium for teaching broader concepts in science, math, and other subjects. Integrates curriculum development activities with opportunities to practice delivering soil-based lessons to diverse audiences.
Available via Ecampus
SOIL 566, SOIL MORPHOLOGY AND CLASSIFICATION, 4 Credits
Observation and description of soil properties in the field; writing soil profile descriptions; evaluating criteria that define features used to classify soils; using soil classification keys.
Recommended: CSS 305 or CSS 205 or SOIL 205
Available via Ecampus
SOIL 568, SOIL LANDSCAPE ANALYSIS, 4 Credits
Principles of soil geomorphology, soil stratigraphy, and surficial processes as applied to understanding the soil system at landscape scales. Emphasis on field observations of soils, geomorphic surfaces, and environment. Field project entails design of soil survey map units, field mapping and GIS cartographic techniques.
Prerequisite: CSS 566 (may be taken concurrently) with C or better or SOIL 566 (may be taken concurrently) with C or better
Available via Ecampus
SOIL 599, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 601, RESEARCH, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 603, THESIS/DISSERTATION, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 999 credits.
SOIL 605, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 606, PROJECTS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 607, SEMINAR, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 608, WORKSHOP, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
SOIL 609, PRACTICUM IN TEACHING, 1-3 Credits
Developing skills and competence in teaching under staff supervision; organization and presentation of instructional material by assisting in laboratory, recitation, and lectures.
Equivalent to: CROP 609, ENT 609, PBG 609
This course is repeatable for 9 credits.
SOIL 645, SOIL MICROBIAL ECOLOGY, 3 Credits
An advanced treatment of current topics in soil microbiology, with an emphasis on the ecology of soil microorganisms. Topics include the size, composition, diversity, and activity of soil microbial communities, linkage of microbial community structure to ecosystem functions, and applications of molecular biology to soil microbiology. Offered even years.
Equivalent to: CSS 645
SOIL 684, GLOBAL BIOGEOCHEMICAL CYCLES, 4 Credits
An in-depth treatment of global biogeochemical cycles, focusing on cycles of carbon, oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur in the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere. CROSSLISTED as GEO 684/SOIL 684.
Equivalent to: GEO 684
Recommended: One year of college-level physics and chemistry, including introductory biology. One year of graduate coursework in soil, earth, ocean, atmospheric or forest science
SOIL 699, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.