School of Plant and Environmental Sciences

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Overview

Capitalizing on the strengths of three departments in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences — Crop and Soil Environmental Sciences; Horticulture; and Plant Pathology, Physiology, and Weed Science — the School of Plant and Environmental Sciences increases the college's capacity to tackle challenges in agriculture and food security, the green industry, plant biology, and the environment. Currently, the School offers three undergraduate degrees and majors in Crop and Soil Sciences (with four options), Environmental Science, Environmental Horticulture, and Landscape Horticulture and Design.

Degree Programs

Crop and Soil Sciences

With the world's population now approaching 7 billion people, and expected to exceed 9 billion within 30 to 40 years, the demand for food is expected to double. Therefore, our ability to sustainably produce plants for food and aesthetic purposes is more crucial now than ever before. In the Crop and Soil Sciences program, students learn the fundamentals of plant science and improvement, and soil and environmental stewardship for feeding the world, protecting the environment, and producing quality turfgrass. The programs offer the rigor, flexibility, and practical knowledge that will help students succeed.

Environmental Science

This program brings the basic sciences to bear on many crucial concerns about the environment. The environments of particular interest are terrestrial and wetland ecosystems and associated land and water resources. Specific concerns include environmental protection, pollution prevention and remediation, land-use planning, waste management, ground- and surface-water quality, reclamation and remediation of disturbed or contaminated sites, and minimizing human impacts on the environment.

Horticulture

Horticulture is plant science that includes the study of plant growth and plant interactions with the environment (soil, air, water) to improve human life through the cultivation of crops and the maintenance of a sustainable environment. Horticulture is unique as a scientific field of study in that it often utilizes artistic expression to aid the design of human landscapes and to restore natural environments. The program covers a range of applied and basic environmental plant science topics, from plant-soil interactions, biotechnology, landscape design, sustainable urban landscaping, urban forestry, crop production, and plant breeding.

Plant Pathology, Physiology, and Weed Science

Program covers areas of plant pathology (nature, biology and control of plant diseases), plant physiology, and weed science (weed biology and control, action of herbicides). No undergraduate majors are offered in these areas, but the department does offer an undergraduate minor in Plant Health Sciences, focused on managing plant health in response to a variety of biotic and abiotic threats. Courses offered under this program are designed to furnish basic knowledge of the nature, diagnosis, and control of plant diseases; identification, biology, and control of weeds; plant metabolism, nutrition, molecular biology, and growth regulation; invasive plant biology; and modern pest management and pesticide usage. The department offers graduate programs leading to M.S. in the life sciences and Ph.D. in plant pathology, plant physiology and weed science. A non-thesis M.S. program in plant protection and pest management is also available (see Graduate Catalog).

Majors and Options

Agronomy

Students in this option concentrate on the biology and increasingly complex technology of food, feed, fuel, and fiber production. Graduates typically move into farming or into sales, consulting, and managerial positions that directly and indirectly support agricultural production, a most vital component of the world's economy.

Crop Genetics and Breeding

Producing better quality and higher yielding crops has been a long-standing objective of crop breeders. New techniques of genetic engineering are now being brought to bear on crop improvement. Students in this option learn the newest methods of molecular biology and are well prepared for careers in research and industry.

Environmental Horticulture

Experience the creativity and rewards of the many facets of horticulture. Students can specialize in producing floriculture and nursery plants, growing sustainable fruits and vegetables, landscape design and management, and other areas of plant science.

Environmental Science

The Environmental Science curriculum is multidisciplinary and strongly science and technology oriented. The curriculum prepares graduates for immediate entry into environmental careers as well as for graduate specializations. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts that employment of environmental scientists and specialists is projected to grow 11 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average for all occupations.

International Agriculture

The world's ever-expanding population must be fed; at the same time, we must be good stewards of the Earth's resources. Many countries have not been able to bring food production and resource conservation into balance. Students in the International Agriculture option are interested in finding simultaneous solutions to these concerns. Employment opportunities exist with various private and public agencies.

Landscape Horticulture and Design

Students learn to design, build, and manage beautiful and functional landscapes using science-based practices that improve the living environment and contribute to environmental sustainability.

Turfgrass Management

Using basic principles of the natural sciences and agricultural technology, turf managers have skills that make them highly employable in golf-course management, athletic and recreational fields, lawn maintenance services, the landscaping industry, and sod production.

Minors

The School offers minors in Crop and Soil Environmental Sciences, Environmental Science, Horticulture, Plant Health Sciences, Turfgrass Management, Viticulture, and Wetland Science. The course requirements for each vary and include a required course (s) plus 15 or 16 more credit hours selected from courses from within and outside the department. Consult the department office (330 Smyth) or website at http://registrar.vt.edu/graduation-multi-brief/index1.html for more information on a minor.

Degree Requirements

The graduation requirements in effect at the time of graduation apply. When choosing the degree requirements information, always choose the year of your expected date of graduation. Requirements for graduation are referred to via university publications as "Checksheets". The number of credit hours required for degree completion varies among curricula. Students must satisfactorily complete all requirements and university obligations for degree completion.

The university reserves the right to modify requirements in a degree program. However, the university will not alter degree requirements less than two years from the expected graduation year unless there is a transition plan for students already in the degree program.

Please visit the University Registrar website at http://registrar.vt.edu/graduation-multi-brief/index1.html for degree requirements.

Satisfactory Progress

University policy requires that students who are making satisfactory progress toward a degree meet minimum criteria toward the General Education (Curriculum for Liberal Education) (see "Academics") and toward the degree.

Satisfactory progress requirements toward the specific degree can be found on the major checksheet by visiting the University Registrar website at http://registrar.vt.edu/graduation-multi-brief/index1.html.

Opportunities to Excel

Students with outstanding records can qualify for the Honors Program and graduate "in honors" in crop and soil environmental sciences. Other opportunities for personal and professional growth and for recognition include Agronomy Club, Environmental Student Organization, Horticulture Club, and Turf Club. Membership in Alpha Zeta, Gamma Sigma Delta, Pi Alpha Xi or other honoraries, and several scholarships are also available. Many student participate in internships that are commonly available in the respective disciplines.

Graduate courses and research opportunities lead to M.S. and Ph.D. specializations in the Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences, Horticulture, and Plant Pathology and Weed Science. (See the Graduate Catalog for more information.)

Undergraduate Course Descriptions (CSES)

2244: AGRICULTURE, GLOBAL FOOD SECURITY AND HEALTH Agriculture and food security within the larger context of applied agronomy, gender role, cultural and political aspects of food production, food policy, production contraints, and global population growth. Emphasis on gender iniquity and globalized food systems will be made. Service learning experience both local and global to promote career opportunity in international development. (3H,3C)

2434: CROP EVALUATION Identification of more than 200 crops, weeds, seeds and crop diseases. Seed testing for purity according to the rules of the Association of Official Seed Analysts. Crops graded according to the official USDA grain grading standards. (6L,2C)

2444: AGRONOMIC CROPS An introduction to crop production in Virginia, presenting basic climatic, crop, and soil characteristics and their relation to cropping systems. Introduces basic mechanical, chemical, and managerial tools of crop production and examines feed quality and seed and forage storage. (3H,3C)

2564: TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT Growth, development, adaptation, and selection of the major turfgrass species. Principles of establishment, mowing, nutrition, irrigation, cultivation, and pest control of lawns and utility turfs. Co: BIOL 1105. (2H,3L,3C)

2964: FIELD STUDY Variable credit course.

2974: INDEPENDENT STUDY Variable credit course.

2984: SPECIAL STUDY Variable credit course.

2994: UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH Variable credit course.

3114 (ENSC 3114) (GEOS 3614): SOILS Characterization of soils as a natural resource emphasizing their physical, chemical, mineralogical, and biological properties in relation to nutrient availability, fertilization, plant growth, land-use management, waste application, soil and water quality, and food production. For CSES, ENSC, and related plant-and earth-science majors. Partially duplicates 3134. Pre: CHEM 1036. Co: 3124. (3H,3C)

3124 (ENSC 3124) (GEOS 3624): SOILS LABORATORY Parent materials, morphology, physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils and related soil management and land use practices will be studied in field and lab. Partially duplicates 3134. Co: 3114. (3L,1C)

3134 (ENSC 3134): SOILS IN THE LANDSCAPE A study of soils as functional landscape components, emphasizing their physical, chemical, mineralogical, and biological properties in relation to plant growth, nutrient availability, land-use management, and soil and water quality. Primarily for FOR/FIW, LAR, and other plant/earth science related majors. May not be taken by CSES or ENSC majors. Partially duplicates 3114 and 3124. Pre: one year of introductory CHEM or BIOL or GEOS. (2H,3L,3C)

3144: SOIL DESCRIPTION AND INTERPRETATION Describing, classifying, evaluating, and interpreting soil and site properties in the class and field. Local field trips supplement lecture and laboratory studies. Required for students interested in attending soil judging contests. Co: 3124, 3114. (1H,6L,3C)

3304 (GEOG 3304) (GEOS 3304): GEOMORPHOLOGY Examines the variety of landforms that exist at the earth’s surface. Detailed investigation of major processes operating at the earth’s surface including: tectonic, weathering, fluvial, coastal, eolian, and glacial processes. Field excursion. Pre: GEOG 1104 or GEOS 1004 or GEOS 2104. (3H,3C)

3444 (HORT 3444): WORLD CROPS AND CROPPING SYSTEMS An introduction to world crops, their primary regions of production, the factors that determine where they are grown, and their economic importance, and how they are used in the human diet. Describes the various factors that can be managed to improve crop yields. Examines present and potential systems of farming for improved crop production in the major climatic and soil ecosystems of the world. Provides an opportunity to taste foods made in traditional and non-traditional ways from the crops hence from field to fork. (2H,3L,3C)

3564: GOLF AND SPORTS TURF MANAGEMENT Principles of turfgrass science and culture required for successful establishment and management of intensely utilized fine golf and sports turf surfaces. Pre: 2564. (3H,3C)

3614 (ENSC 3614): SOIL PHYSICAL AND HYDROLOGICAL PROPERTIES Soil physical and mechanical properties and the physical processes controlling soil water retention and flow in agronomic and natural settings. Grain size distribution, weight-volume relationships, specific surface, electrical charge density, consistency, stress, compaction, rainfall runoff, water retention, steady/non-steady water flow in saturated/unsaturated soil, infiltration, bare soil evaporation, and soil water balance. Pre: (3114, 3124) or (GEOS 3614, GEOS 3624). (3H,3C)

3634 (ENSC 3634): PHYSICS OF POLLUTION Physical processes that control the fate of pollutants in our land, air, and water resources. Types and sources of pollutants, physical processes in the soil-water-atmosphere continuum controlling the dispersion and deposition of pollutants, the movement of pollutants, including radionuclides, by surface and subsurface water flow in soils, and physics of disturbed soils. Pre: 3114, PHYS 2205, (MATH 2016 or MATH 2024). (3H,3C)

3644 (ENSC 3644): PLANT MATERIALS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL RESTORATION Overview of ecological principles related to revegetation and restoration of disturbed sites. Function and species requirements of plants in stabilizing disturbed areas including mines, rights-of-way, constructed wetlands, and for the remediation of contaminated soils. Pre: BIOL 1106. Co: 3114. (3H,3C)

3954: STUDY ABROAD Variable credit course.

4134 (ENSC 4134): SOIL GENESIS AND CLASSIFICATION Formation of soils across landscapes, soil-forming factors and processes, applied soil geology/geomorphology, applied soil biochemistry, soil hydrology, diagnostic horizons and characteristics used in Soil Taxonomy; soil classification and mapping. Three outdoor lectures and one 3-day field trip are mandatory. Pre: (3114, 3124) or (ENSC 3114, ENSC 3124) or (GEOS 3614, GEOS 3624) or CSES 3134 or ENSC 3134. (2H,3L,3C)

4144: PLANT BREEDING AND GENETICS Genetic variation in plants and its importance in plant breeding, and comparisons of theories and procedures in breeding of self-pollinated versus cross-pollinated plants. (2H,3L,3C)

4164 (BIOL 4164) (ENSC 4164): ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY Ecology, physiology, and diversity of soil and aquatic microorganisms; incorporates the significance of these topics within the context of environmental applications such as bioremediation, wastewater treatment, control of plant- pathogens in agriculture, and pollution abatement in natural systems. The laboratory portion of the course will stress methodology development, isolation and characterization of microorganisms from natural and engineered systems, and examination of the roles of microorganisms in biogeochemical cycling. Pre: BIOL 2604. (2H,3L,3C)

4174: SOIL EVALUATION AND SAMPLING Naming, describing, classifying, sampling, and interpreting soil and site properties in the field to assess environmental impacts and suitability under specific land use scenarios. Selecting and evaluating sites of representative soil resources across the landscape using accepted professional protocols, simulating workplace responsibilities and performance. Local and regional field trips and sampling projects provide professional skill development evaluated by practitioners and potential employers. Pre: 3114 or 3144. (2H,3L,3C)

4214: SOIL FERTILITY AND MANAGEMENT Soil productivity and nutrients required for crop growth; fertilizer sources and nutrient reactions in soil; methods of fertilizer nutrient placement in major tillage systems; and interpretation of soil tests and plant analyses for determining crop nutrient requirements. Pre: 3114 or 3134. (3H,3C)

4314 (ENSC 4314): WATER QUALITY Provide comprehensive information on the physical, chemical, biological, and anthropogenic factors affecting water quality, fate and transport of contaminants in water, water quality assessment and management, and current water quality policies. Pre: (ENSC 3604 or BIOL 4004), (MATH 2015 or MATH 1026), (BIOL 1105 or BIOL 1106), (C HEM 1035 or CHEM 1036). (3H,3C)

4324 (ENSC 4324): WATER QUALITY LABORATORY Teach students a variety of laboratory chemical and biological techniques for water quality analysis. Complementary to ENSC/CSES 4314. Pre: CHEM 1046. Co: 4314, ENSC 4314. (3L,1C)

4334 (FREC 4334): PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICE OF AGROFORESTRY Biological, social, economic, and technical aspects of agroforestry, training and technology transfer techniques, and application of forestry and agriculture principles. Roles of animals and fish, trees, and agricultural crops in agroforestry systems. Community involvement in planning and implementation of agroforestry projects. (3H,3C)

4344: CROP PHYSIOLOGY AND ECOLOGY Developmental and ecological processes important in cropping situations: seed physiology, root and canopy development, flowering, water stress, energy flow, competition; emphasis on physiological adaptations, limitations to yield, and yield-optimizing strategies. (3H,3C)

4354: ADVANCED AGRONOMIC CROPS Survey of major agronomic crops grown in the Eastern US and their production including: corn, soybean, wheat, barley, cotton, peanut, tobacco and alfalfa. Covers impact of environmental conditions and management on crops, resource requirements for productivity, and effects on soil resources. (3H,3C)

4444 (ENSC 4444): MANAGED ECOSYSTEMS, ECOSYSTEM SERVICES, AND SUSTAINABILITY Description and interactions of climate, soils, and organisms within intensively managed ecosystems used to produce food, fiber, bioenergy, fresh water, recreation, cultural, and other ecosystems services essential for human well-being. Ecological concepts applied to agricultural, grassland, and urban/turf ecosystems. Ecologically-based principles for sustainably managed ecosystems. Regional and global significance of managed ecosystems in context of sustainable food systems, and the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment. Pre-Requisite: Junior Standing required. Pre: 3114 or 3134. (3H,3C)

4544: FORAGE CROP ECOLOGY Species adaptation interrelated with soil, climatic, and biotic factors as associated with establishment, production, utilization, and nutritional value of forages. (3H,3C)

4644: LAND-BASED SYSTEMS FOR WASTE TREATMENT Soils as a medium for waste treatment; potential for environmental degradation from biologicals and chemicals added to soils; development of land-based treatment and utilization systems for solid and liquid wastes; issues and concerns relating to large-scale applications of municipal and industrial wastes to land. (3H,3C)

4734 (CHEM 4734) (ENSC 4734): ENVIRONMENTAL SOIL CHEMISTRY Chemistry of inorganic and organic soil components with emphasis on environmental significance of soil solution-solid phase equilibria, sorption phenomena, ion exchange processes, reaction kinetics, redox reactions, and acidity and salinity processes. Pre: 2114, 3124, CHEM 2514 or CHEM 2535, CHEM 2114, (MATH 2015 or MATH 1026). (3H,3C)

4764 (ENSC 4764): BIOREMEDIATION Overview of environmental biotechnology and the use of microbes and other organisms to remove contaminants and improve environmental quality. Topics include treatment of contaminated soils, waters, and wastewaters, as well as remediation of industrial waste streams. Pre: BIOL 2604. (3H,3C)

4774 (ENSC 4774): RECLAMATION OF DRASTICALLY DISTURBED LANDS Remediation, rehabilitation, and revegetation strategies for lands disturbed by mining, construction, industrialization, and mineral waste disposal. Disturbed site characterization and material analysis procedures. Regulatory and environmental monitoring frameworks for mining sites and other disturbed lands. Prediction and remediation of water quality impacts from acid drainage. Pre: 3114 or GEOS 3614 or ENSC 3114 or CSES 3134 or ENSC 3134 or CSES 3304 or GEOG 33 04 or GEOS 3304. (3H,3C)

4854 (ENSC 4854): WETLANDS SOILS AND MITIGATION Wetland soils as components of natural landscapes: biogeochemistry, hydrology, geomorphology, hydric soil indicators, and wetlands functions under various land uses. Soil and hydrologic factors important to wetland delineation and jurisdictional determination. Mitigation of wetland impacts with emphasis on restoration and creation. Outdoor lectures at local wetlands and a two-day long field trip to observe and identify wetland soils are mandatory. Pre: (3114, 3124) or (ENSC 3114, ENSC 3124) or (GEOS 3614, GEOS 3624) or CSES 3134 or ENSC 3134. (2H,3L,3C)

4864: CAPSTONE: CROP & SOIL SCIENCES Experiential and discussion-based learning that utilizes prior knowledge gained in the major to synthesize information, and prepare a written comprehensive work plan that is defended orally. Review available careers in the crop and soil sciences. Compose and critique resumes and cover letters. CSS majors only. Pre: Senior standing. (3H,3C)

4964: FIELD STUDY Variable credit course.

4974: INDEPENDENT STUDY Variable credit course.

4984: SPECIAL STUDY Variable credit course.

4994: UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH Variable credit course.

Undergraduate Course Descriptions (ENSC)

1015-1016: FOUNDATIONS OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Interrelationships between human activities and the environment; emphasis on biological, chemical, and physical principles that govern the flow of energy, materials, and information among physical, ecological and human systems. (3H,3C)

2964: FIELD STUDY Variable credit course.

2974: INDEPENDENT STUDY Variable credit course.

2984: SPECIAL STUDY Variable credit course.

3114 (CSES 3114) (GEOS 3614): SOILS Characterization of soils as a natural resource emphasizing their physical, chemical, mineralogical, and biological properties in relation to nutrient availability, fertilization, plant growth, land-use management, waste application, soil and water quality, and food production. For CSES, ENSC, and related plant- and earth-science majors. Partially duplicates 3134. Junior standing. Pre: CHEM 1036. Co: 3124. (3H,3C)

3124 (CSES 3124) (GEOS 3624): SOILS LABORATORY Parent materials, morphology, physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils and related soil management and land use practices will be studied in field and lab. Partially duplicates 3134. Co: 3114. (3L,1C)

3134 (CSES 3134): SOILS IN THE LANDSCAPE A study of soils as functional landscape components, emphasizing their physical, chemical, mineralogical, and biological properties in relation to plant growth, nutrient availability, land-use management, and soil and water quality. Primarily for FOR/FIW, LAR, and other plant/earth science related majors. May not be taken by CSES or ENSC majors. Partially duplicates 3114 and 3124. Pre: one year of introductory CHEM or BIOL or GEOS. (2H,3L,3C)

3244: ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION Process of assisting the recovery of degraded ecosystems by linking ecological concepts to restoration interventions. Invasive species management, revegetation methods, soil and water quality, erosion prevention and hydrology rehabilitation, faunal restorations. Restoration project design, planning, monitoring and implementation. Pre: BIOL 2804. (3H,3C)

3604: FUNDAMENTALS OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Interrelationships between human activities and the environment; provides national and global perspective; emphasis is on the physical, chemical, and biological principles and processes that are essential to an understanding of human-environment interactions; the role of energy in human and natural systems; environmental legislation and human behavior. Pre: BIOL 1105 or CHEM 1035. (3H,3C)

3614 (CSES 3614): SOIL PHYSICAL AND HYDROLOGICAL PROPERTIES Soil physical and mechanical properties and the physical processes controlling soil water retention and flow in agronomic and natural settings. Grain size distribution, weight-volume relationships, specific surface, electrical charge density, consistency, stress, compaction, rainfall runoff, water retention, steady/non-steady water flow in saturated/unsaturated soil, infiltration, bare soil evaporation, and soil water balance. Pre: (CSES 3114, CSES 3124) or (GEOS 3614, GEOS 3624). (3H,3C)

3634 (CSES 3634): PHYSICS OF POLLUTION Physical processes that control the fate of pollutants in our land, air, and water resources. Types and sources of pollutants, physical processes in the soil-water-atmosphere continuum controlling the dispersion and deposition of pollutants, the movement of pollutants, including radionuclides, by surface and subsurface water flow in soils, and physics of disturbed soils. Pre: CSES 3114, PHYS 2206, (MATH 2016 or MATH 2024). (3H,3C)

3644 (CSES 3644): PLANT MATERIALS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL RESTORATION Overview of ecological principles related to revegetation and restoration of disturbed sites. Function and species requirements of plants in stabilizing disturbed areas including mines, rights-of-way, constructed wetlands, and for the remediation of contaminated soils. Pre: BIOL 1106. Co: CSES 3114. (3H,3C)

4134 (CSES 4134): SOIL GENESIS AND CLASSIFICATION Formation of soils across landscape, soil-forming factors and processes, applied soil geology/geomorphology, applied soil biochemistry, soil hydrology, diagnostic horizons and characteristics used in Soil Taxonomy; soil classification and mapping. Three outdoor lectures and one 3-day field trip are mandatory. Pre: (CSES 3114, CSES 3124) or (ENSC 3114, ENSC 3124) or (GEOS 3614, GEOS 3624) or CS ES 3134 or ENSC 3134. (2H,3L,3C)

4164 (BIOL 4164) (CSES 4164): ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY Ecology, physiology, and diversity of soil and aquatic microorganisms; incorporates the significance of these topics within the context of environmental applications such as bioremediation, wastewater treatment, control of plant- pathogens in agriculture, and pollution abatement in natural systems. The laboratory portion of the course will stress methodology development, isolation and characterization of microorganisms from natural and engineered systems, and examination of the roles of microorganisms in biogeochemical cycling. Pre: BIOL 2604. (2H,3L,3C)

4314 (CSES 4314): WATER QUALITY Provide comprehensive information on the physical, chemical, biological, and anthropogenic factors affecting water quality, fate and transport of contaminants in water, water quality assessment and management, and current water quality policies. (3H,3C)

4324 (CSES 4324): WATER QUALITY LABORATORY Teach students a variety of laboratory chemical and biological techniques for water quality analysis. Complementary to ENSC/CSES 4314. Pre: CHEM 1046. Co: CSES 4314, 4314. (3L,1C)

4414: MONITORING AND ANALYSIS OF THE ENVIRONMENT Provides comprehensive hands-on-laboratory-and field-based experience and information on the principles and methods for field monitoring and sampling, as well the physical, chemical, and biological analysis of soil, surface water, groundwater, and solid wastes within the context of regulatory compliance. Optional 40-hour Hazards Materials (HAZMAT) training will be available. Senior standing required. Pre: (3604 or 4314 or CSES 4314 or BIOL 4004), (MATH 1026 or MATH 2015, CHEM 1036, BI OL 1105). (1H,3L,2C)

4444 (CSES 4444): MANAGED ECOSYSTEMS, ECOSYSTEM SERVICES, AND SUSTAINABILITY Description and interactions of climate, soils, and organisms within intensively managed ecosystems used to produce food, fiber, bioenergy, fresh water, recreation, cultural, and other ecosystems services essential for human well-being. Ecological concepts applied to agricultural, grassland, and urban/turf ecosystems. Ecologically-based principles for sustainably managed ecosystems. Regional and global significance of managed ecosystems in context of sustainable food systems, and the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment. Pre-Requisite: Junior or Senior Standing required. Pre: CSES 3114 or CSES 3134. (3H,3C)

4734 (CHEM 4734) (CSES 4734): ENVIRONMENTAL SOIL CHEMISTRY Chemistry of inorganic and organic soil components with emphasis on environmental significance of soil solution-solid phase equilibria, sorption phenomena, ion exchange processes, reaction kinetics, redox reactions, and acidity and salinity processes. Pre: CSES 3114, CSES 3124, CHEM 2514 or CHEM 2535, CHEM 3114, (MATH 2015 or MATH 1026). (3H,3C)

4764 (CSES 4764): BIOREMEDIATION Overview of environmental biotechnology and the use of microbes and other organisms to remove contaminants and improve environmental quality. Topics include treatment of contaminated soils, waters, and wastewaters, as well as remediation of industrial waste streams. Pre: BIOL 2604. (3H,3C)

4774 (CSES 4774): RECLAMATION OF DRASTICALLY DISTURBED LANDS Remediation, rehabilitation, revegetation strategies for lands disturbed by mining, construction, industrialization, and mineral waste disposal. Disturbed site characterization and materials analysis procedures. Regulatory and environmental monitoring frameworks for mining sites and other disturbed lands. Prediction and remediation of water quality impacts from acid drainage. Pre: CSES 3114 or ENSC 3114 or GEOS 3614 or CSES 3134 or ENSC 3134 or CSES 3304 or GE OG 3304 or GEOS 3304. (3H,3C)

4854 (CSES 4854): WETLAND SOILS AND MITIGATION Wetland soils as components of natural landscapes: biogeochemistry, hydrology, geomorphology, hydric soil indicators, and wetland functions under various land uses. Soil and hydrologic factors important to wetland delineation and jurisdictional determination. Mitigation of wetland impacts with emphasis on restoration and creation. Outdoor lectures at local wetlands and a two-day long field trip to observe and identify wetlands soils are mandatory. Pre: (CSES 3114, CSES 3124) or (ENSC 3114, ENSC 3124) or (GEOS 3614, GEOS 3624) or CS ES 3134 or ENSC 3134. (2H,3L,3C)

4864: CAPTSTONE: ENV SCIENCE Discussion based learning that utilizes prior knowledge gained in the major to synthesize information, and prepare a written comprehensive work plan. The work plan will demonstrate the student’s understanding of contaminant fate and mobility in different environmental media and will be defended orally. Review and explore available careers in environmental science through seminars and working groups within environmental professionals discussing the role and responsibilities of environmental scientists in industry, consulting, regulatory agencies, and non-profits. ENSC majors only. Senior Standing. Pre: (CSES 3634 or ENSC 3634), (ENSC 4414), (CHEM 4734 or CSES 4734 or ENSC 4734), (C SES 4854 or ENSC 4854). (3L,1C)

4964: FIELD STUDY Variable credit course.

4974: INDEPENDENT STUDY Variable credit course.

4984: SPECIAL STUDY Variable credit course.

4994: UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH Variable credit course.

Undergraduate Course Descriptions (HORT)

2134 (FREC 2134): PLANTS AND GREENSPACES IN URBAN COMMUNITIES Modern concepts of sustainability changing plant use in urban settings. Fundamentals of urban plant systems in the context of urban ecosystem management. Philosophy and critical analysis of sustainability related to green infrastructure, including urban forests, green roofs, urban soils, urban wildlife, urban agriculture, and innovations merging plant and ecosystem functions with building and site engineering. Multi-disciplinary emphasis at site, regional, and global, scales. (3H,3C)

2144: INDOOR PLANTS Basic horticultural principles, identification and cultural criteria applicable to foliage and flowering plants grown indoors. Specific plant groups discussed include ferns, cacti and succulents, and carnivorous plants, among many others. (3H,3C)

2154 (SPAN 2154): SPANISH FOR THE GREEN INDUSTRY Dialogue-based language course focusing on the vocabulary and grammatical structures pertaining to Green and Agricultural Industry jobs. Includes vocabulary and context specific to jobs and workers in greenhouse, nursery, turf and landscape environments. Spanish culture is included throughout the course along with grammar and structure. Prior study in Spanish is helpful but not required. I, II. (3H,3C)

2164: FLORAL DESIGN Fundamental art theory, historical and cultural influences, tools and techniques as applied to current floral art. Emphasis on applied experiential learning through designing, building and producing acceptable floral displays for home and public environments. Sustainable and ethical practices in growing and purchasing flowers. Fee $128. (2H,3L,3C)

2184: PLANTS, PLACES, AND CULTURES IN A GLOBAL CONTEXT Impact of worldwide production and trade in fruits, vegetables, and cut flowers (horticultural commodities) on societies, cultures, economies, politics, and environment. Case studies covering history, economics, social/cultural impacts of producing fruit, vegetables, tea, coffee, and other horticultural crops in producing and consuming countries. Case studies illustrate inextricable interactions and interconnectedness between horticultural crops and cultures. (3H,3C)

2224: HORTICULTURE SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY Survey course of horticultural crops (fruits, vegetables, ornamentals) and enterprises. Includes plant science and business aspects of horticultural production and service industries, and introduces related issues and emerging technologies such as work force characteristics, organic production, and biotechnology. I. (2H,2C)

2234: ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS IN HORTICULTURE Principles and practices in managing environmental factors - temperature, water, light, atmospheric gases and pollutants, and soil and minerals - that influence growth and production of horticultural plants. (3H,3C)

2244: PLANT PROPAGATION Principles and practices of plant propagation by sexual and asexual methods. (2H,2L,3C)

2304 (BIOL 2304): PLANT BIOLOGY Introductory botany. Form, growth, function, reproduction, and ecological adaptations of major groups of plants. Pre: BIOL 1105, BIOL 1106. (3H,3C)

2834: SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE PRACTICUM Hands-on training in sustainable agricultural production at a student-operated vegetable and fruit farm. Participation in tasks required in managing a diversified sustainable horticulture operation, including planting, pest management, irrigation, and post-harvest handling. Discussion of soil fertility, planning, efficiency, food safety and community food systems. May be repeated with different content, for a maximum of 6 credits. (1H,6L,3C)

2964: FIELD STUDY Variable credit course.

2974: INDEPENDENT STUDY Variable credit course.

2984: SPECIAL STUDY Variable credit course.

3114 (FST 3114): WINES AND VINES Development of a working knowledge of world wine styles, wine appreciation, and sensory evaluation of wine. Emphasis on the influences of grape growing and winemaking practices on wine quality, style, economic value, and significance in global food culture. Pre: Must be at least 21 years of age. (3H,3C)

3325-3326: WOODY LANDSCAPE PLANTS Functions, growing requirements, hardiness, problems, and methods of identification of landscape plant materials. 3325: Commonly available woody landscape plants. 3326: Native and rare woody landscape plants. (2H,3L,3C)

3345,3346: HERBACEOUS LANDSCAPE PLANTS Identification, growing requirements, culture, landscape use, flowering and dormancy physiology, and unique propagation of native and non-native herbaceous plants for temperate environments. 3345: Summer and fall-flowering ornamental annuals and perennials; cultivated wildflower, wetland, and aquatic systems. 3346: Winter and spring-flowering species and related herbaceous foliage plants. Junior standing required. Pre: 2244. (1H,3L,2C)

3354 (FREC 3354): URBAN FORESTRY AND ARBORICULTURE Science and practice of tree cultivation, conservation, and management in human-dominated environments along an urban to rural gradient. Holistic study of landscape tree management: planning, planting, inspection, maintenance, removal, and wood waste utilization. Examination of tree responses to urbanization and tree influences on built environments. Emphasis on sustainable, ethical stewardship of landscape trees for the benefit of people and the environment. Pre: (FOR 2314 or FREC 2314 or BIOL 2304 or HORT 2304), (FOR 2324 or FREC 2324 or HORT 3325 or HORT 3326). (3H,3C)

3444 (CSES 3444): WORLD CROPS AND SYSTEMS An introduction to world crops, their primary regions of production, the factors that determine where they are grown, and their economic importance, and how they are used in the human diet. Describes the various factors that can be managed to improve crop yields. Examines present and potential systems of farming for improved crop production in the major climatic and soil ecosystems of the world. Provides an opportunity to taste foods made in traditional and non-traditional ways from the crops hence from field to fork. (2H,3L,3C)

3454: HERBACEOUS PLANTS FOR ECOLOGICAL LANDSCAPES Plant selection to provide ecosystem services. Site analysis, design, preparation, planting and maintenance strategies specific to cold-hardy herbaceous plants including native and non-native perennials, and ornamental grasses. Philosophy, historical perspective, and case studies of ecological planting designs. Pre: 2234 or BIOL 1105. (3H,3C)

3544: LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION Survey of landscape construction materials and methods. Concentration on small scale and residential applications, innovative uses, and cost estimates. (1H,3L,2C)

3584: LANDSCAPE CONTRACTING PRACTICUM The development of practical skills in landscape contracting. The course will rotate between design and installation of water gardens, landscape irrigation systems, landscape lighting or other pertinent topics on consecutive years. The course can be repeated for exposure to specific subjects to maximum of 3 credits. Junior standing required. Pass/Fail only. Pre: 2224, 2234. (3L,1C)

3664: HARDSCAPE MATERIALS AND INSTALLATION Non-plant portions of landscape construction such as rock walls, paver floors, arbors, and water gardens. The course covers the materials, construction methods, and business aspects required for hardscape construction. Pre: 2224. (6L,2C)

4004: HORTICULTURE SEMINAR Assessment of fundamental horticultural skills developed through academics and employment. Includes career placement preparation and problem solving through research and production project design and implementation using a team approach. Junior standing required. (1H,1C)

4064: SOIL MICROBIOLOGY Soil microbes as determinants of plant growth, sustainable agricultural systems, and global nutrient cycles. Environmental controls of soil microbes and relationship to soil decomposition. Soil as a micro-habitat. Application to soil management and plant growth, plant-microbe mutualisms, probiotics, biocontrol, composting, ecosystem restoration, and disease suppression. Pre: BIOL 1105, (CSES 3114 or ENSC 3114 or GEOS 3614 or CSES 3134 or ENSC 3134). (3H,3C)

4205,4206: PUBLIC GARDENS MAINTENANCE AND MANAGEMENT 4205: Principles and practices of winter annuals and spring blooming bulb production and installation; water garden cultivation and systems maintenance; fall fertilization programming; vegetative waste management; information dissemination and communication methods for public outreach including education, interpretive programs, and fundraising. 4206: Principles and practices of pruning, summer annual production; soil amendment and protection; plant collections/accessions curation and database management; personnel and financial management issues unique to public gardens. Pre: Junior standing required. (3L,1C)

4324: GREENHOUSE MANAGEMENT For persons who intend to manage or advise those managing commercial or institutional greenhouses. Includes greenhouse construction, environmenal controls, disease/insect identification and management, control of plant growth, root-zone management, and marketing and management principles specific to greenhouse operations. Pre: Coursework or experience in plant growth and environmental management required. (3H,3C)

4504: LANDSCAPE CONTRACTING Capstone course for students entering the landscape contracting industry. Includes contracts, site plan interpretation, cost estimation and bidding, project sequencing, business marketing, irrigation design, and current issues. Emphasis on real-world skills and problem solving. Pre: Senior Standing Required. (1H,3L,2C)

4545-4546: SMALL SCALE AND RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE DESIGN Development of graphic skills with concentration on a variety of media and techniques. Basic theory and principles on design of small scale and residential landscapes with emphasis on spatial composition, user needs, ecology, and uses of plant materials and light construction. Pre: 3325, 3544 for 4545; 3325, 3544, 4545, 4545 for 4546. (2H,6L,4C)

4554 (BSE 4554) (FREC 4554) (LAR 4554) (SPIA 4554): CREATING THE ECOLOGICAL CITY Multidisciplinary, team oriented, problem-solving approaches to creating cities that foster healthy interconnections between human and ecological systems. Analysis of problems from practical and ethical perspectives in the context of the diverse knowledge bases and values of decision-makers. Formation and utilization of integrated design teams to solve complex urban design and planning problems at a variety of scales. Senior standing. Pre: 2134 or FREC 2134. (3H,3C)

4614: ORNAMENTAL PLANT PRODUCTION AND MARKETING In-depth production and marketing of woody and herbaceous plants in wholesale nursery and floriculture/greenhouse and related retail outlets. Includes production laboratory. Pre: 2234, 2244, 4324, AAEC 2434. (2H,3L,3C)

4644: SMALL FRUIT PRODUCTION Propagation, production, and marketing of small fruit crops for the mid-Atlantic region. Emphasis on sustainable practices, market sectors, and health and nutritional benefits. Blueberries, strawberries, brambles and other crops. Pre: 2234, 2244, AAEC 2434. (3H,3C)

4654: VITICULTURE Overview of grapevine growth and development, factors affecting yield and grape quality, and regional industry. Vineyard financial considerations, site evaluation, varietal characteristics plus cultural practices of pruning, training, canopy management, fertilization and pest management. Pre: 2234. (3H,3C)

4744: PLANT ESTABLISHMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN Plant establishment and environmental design process for sustainable landscapes emphasizing the relationship between design of human-constructed landscapes and ecosystems at larger scales. Site assessment, urban soils, site rehabilitation, plant response to disturbed environments, green infrastructure and other contemporary landscape forms. Plant selection, sourcing, and installation to achieve environmental design goals. Emphasis on hands-on, experiential learning to achieve sustainable landscapes. Pre: Senior Standing. Pre: 2134 or FREC 2134 or CSES 3134 or ENSC 3134 or CSES 3114 or ENSC 3114 or GEOS 36 14 or LAR 1254. (2H,3L,3C)

4764: VEGETABLE CROPS A comprehensive study of major and minor vegetable crops of Virginia, the U.S., and world in relation to production practices, crop development, nutritional value, and quality characteristics. Pre: 2234. (3H,3C)

4784: VEGETABLE SEED PRODUCTION The study of production agriculture or reproductive biology. Seed production, handling, identification, conditioning, enhancement, packaging, storage, testing, federal standards, and biotechnology. Pre: 4764 or 2244 or equivalent experience in vegetable crops, plant propagation, or plant growth and development. Pre: 4764 or 2244. (2H,2C)

4794: MEDICINAL PLANTS AND HERBS Comprehensive study of medicinal plants/herbs history, production, processing, lore and documented scientific benefits. Traditional plant medicinal practices of Native Americans, Chinese, Indians, European and African cultures will be contrasted with use of contemporary herbal products. Pre: BIOL 1005 or BIOL 1105. (3H,3C)

4835-4836: ORGANIC VEGETABLE PRODUCTION Detailed practices in organic vegetable production. Issues in starting organic production, profitability, organic transition strategies and organic certification. Pre: 2254, ALS 3404 for 4835; 4835 for 4836. (2H,2C)

4845-4846: ORGANIC VEGETABLE PRODUCTION LABORATORY Field experiences, demonstrations, and farm tours complementing 4835 and 4836 lectures. Co: 4835 for 4845; 4836 for 4846. (3L,1C)

4964: FIELD STUDY Variable credit course.

4974: INDEPENDENT STUDY Variable credit course.

4984: SPECIAL STUDY Variable credit course.

4994: UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH Variable credit course.

Undergraduate Course Descriptions (PPWS)

2004: MYSTERIOUS MUSHROOMS, MALICIOUS MOLDS Study of the fungi and their close relatives, with special attention to their roles in the natural world and in shaping the course of human history. Historical and practical significance of fungi as sources of medicine, pathogens of plants and animals, rotters and decayers of organic matter, makers of food and drink, manufacturers of dangerous toxins, and producers of mind-altering chemicals. A student must have a basic understanding of biology. (3H,3C)

2104: PLANTS, GENES, AND PEOPLE Explores how and why humans have manipulated plant genomes from prehistory through the current genomic era by examining the scientific, cultural, historical, and legal aspects of plant gene management in both conventional and transgenic crops. Pre: BIOL 1005 or BIOL 1105. (3H,3C)

2754: WEEDS THAT SHAPE OUR WORLD How weeds shape our world, and why society will never get rid of them. Introduction to weed identification, weeds in their socio-cultural, environmental, and economic context. Consideration of the tension among their beneficial aspects, control, human attitudes, and the ethical dilemmas they post to society. (3H,3C)

2964: FIELD STUDY Variable credit course.

2984: SPECIAL STUDY Variable credit course.

2994: UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH Variable credit course.

3504: PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND THE BIOTIC ENVIRONMENT Course explores how both agricultural and non-crop plants grow, develop, and respond to biotic environmental influences. Topics include symbiotic and pathogenic microorganisms, herbivores, phytoremediation, parasitic plants, and weeds. The scope ranges from biochemical, cellular, tissue, to whole plant physiology. Course includes an experimental project in plant physiology on one of the topics. Pre: (BIOL 1006 or BIOL 2304), CHEM 1036. (3H,3C)

4104: PLANT PATHOLOGY Introduction to plant pathology as a science and a crop protection discipline. Plant disease diagnosis, biology, and identification of plant disease-causing agents, factors leading to disease build-up, and management of plant diseases. Diseases of specific crops are studied as examples to illustrate general principles. Pre: (BIOL 1005 or BIOL 1105), (BIOL 1006 or BIOL 1106). (3H,3L,4C)

4114: MICROBIAL FORENSICS AND BIOSECURITY Concepts of comparative and evolutionary genomics for pathogen characterization and identification taught through case studies of bioterrorism, involuntary and voluntary disease transmission, infectious disease epidemics, and genetically modified organisms; emphasis placed on unambiguous source attribution of a disease outbreak to a particular microbe, risk assessment, response as individual, community, and nation to a bioterrorism attack or disease outbreak, federal biosecurity regulations, and career opportunities. Pre: BIOL 2604, (BIOL 2104 or BIOL 2004). (3H,3C)

4154: PLANT PROBLEM DIAGNOSIS Plant problem diagnosis in the laboratory and field, including recognition of disease, insect and abiotic (nonliving) problems, as well as the major groups of plant pathogens of a variety of regionally important horticultural and agronomic crops. General management options for pests and pathogens. Co: 4104. (2H,3L,3C)

4264 (ENT 4264): PESTICIDE USAGE An interdisciplinary study of pesticides used in urban and agricultural environments. Topics studied will include: classification, toxicology, formulation, application techniques, safety, legal considerations, environmental impact, and research and development of new pesticides. Pre: CHEM 2515 or CHEM 2536. (2H,3L,3C)

4504: FUNDAMENTALS OF PLANT PHYSIOLOGY Fundamental principles of plant physiology (photosynthesis, respiration, transpiration, nutrition, translocation, and development) will be integrated with discussion of the relationship between abiotic environmental factors and plant physiological processes. Both agricultural and non-crop plants will be emphasized. Pre: (BIOL 1006 or BIOL 2304), CHEM 1036. (3H,3C)

4604: BIOLOGICAL INVASIONS Broad overview of the causes, consequences, and epidemiology of invasive plants, animals, and microbes. Conceptual, mechanistic, societal, and political components of invasive species from Darwin to modern day, covering the invasion process from introduction to ecological or economic impact. Taxonomy, management, and risk assessment will be covered via case studies, within a policy context. Pre: BIOL 1105, BIOL 1106. (2H,3L,3C)

4754: WEED SCIENCE: PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES Weeds and human affairs; costs and losses; emphasis on weed biology, weed identification and weed-crop ecology; agronomic, physiological, and chemical principles underlying prevention, eradication, and control of undesired vegetation; methods of weed control available for modern agronomic, forestry, horticultural, and non-crop situations. Pre: BIOL 2304, CHEM 1036. (2H,3L,3C)

4964: FIELD STUDY Variable credit course.

4974: INDEPENDENT STUDY Variable credit course.

4984: SPECIAL STUDY Variable credit course.

4994: UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH Variable credit course.