Spring 2019 Course Syllabi

Course Prefix/Number/Title: HORT 246 - Compost Production and Use Number of credits: 1 Semester Credit 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. Pre-/Co-requisites: None Instructor: Keith Knudson Office: Molberg 26; 105 Simrall Blvd. Dakota College at Bottineau Office Hours: By appointment Phone: 701-228-5489 Email: Keith A Knudson Lecture/Lab Schedule: TBD Textbook(s): Compost Production and Utilization: A Growers’ Guide by Mark Van Horn Course Requirements: Grading will be based on the following to obtain points. There will be 4 lecture quizzes each worth 50 points, a student project worth 200 points and a final exam worth 150 points. Points for quizzes and final exam may be adjusted using a curve method. Total possible points for the course are 550. The final grade is based on the following criteria: A = 89.5% to 100% of the total points B = 79.5% to < 89.5% of the total points C = 68.5% to <79.5% of the total points D = 59.6% to <69.5% of the total points F = < 59.5% of the total points