Fall 2019 Course Syllabi

HORT 246 - Compost Production and Use Number of credits: 1 Credit Fall Semester 2019 Pre-/Co-requisites: None Course Description: A study of basic principles of composting based upon a naturally occurring process of decay. This course includes the composting process, methods to assure safe use of materials, proper mixing procedures and a brief introduction to vermiculture. The course activity involves making of a compost pile and a returning a week later to examine the results. Objectives: 1. To learn the basic principles of composting. 2. Be able to explain the difference between commercial fertilizers and compost. 3. To describe the benefits of composting. 4. To build a compost pile using methods learned. 5. To properly blend compost based on plant nutrient requirements. Instructor: Amy Koehler Office: Molberg 27 Office Hours: By appointment Phone: 701-228-5605 Email: amy.koehler@dakotacollege.edu Lecture/Lab Schedule: Tu 8:00am-9:50am Textbook(s ): Compost Production and Utilization: A Growers’ Guide by Mark Van Horn On-Farm Composting Handbook by Author Robert Rynk (PDF downloads will be provided to the students by the instructor) Other related reading material will be provided by the instructor throughout the course. Course Requirements: Class participation (20pts per class) Weekly quizzes (50 pts each) Final lab project (200 pts) Final Exam (150 pts) Grading: Grading is based on a standard college curve, where students earn a grade based upon the percent of total possible points they obtain. Any missed exam or assignment not made up within the allotted time will be given a zero. The “allotted time” given is at the discretion of the instructor and will be communicated to the students throughout the course. (Note: It is the responsibility of the student to schedule make-up work with the instructor at a time convenient to both parties.) Final letter grades are assigned based on the following criteria: A = 90-100% of the total points B = 80-90% of the total points C = 70-80% of the total points D = 60-70% of the total points F = <60% of the total points *The instructor reserves the right to modify this syllabus and course requirements at any time.