207 401 Soil Management and Conservation
This subject will examine the major current issues in the management of soils under various land uses in Australia. The dynamic nature of the soils will be explored through study of the chemical, physical and biological processes in the soil environment, particularly those which impact directly on plant growth. The content includes reactions of nutrients and contaminants with soil surfaces; processes controlling nutrient availability with particular reference to nitrogen and phosphorus; assessment of nutrient availability including quantity/intensity relationships; processes leading to sodic, salinised and acidified soils; soil structure classification and management to minimise erosion; water and solute movement; soil survey and land capability assessment; process-based soil management models; and soil contamination, urban soil issues and soil quality and sustainability indicators. The subject should develop an understanding of how soils can be managed to optimise plant growth and minimise adverse effects on the environment, and present practical solutions to soil management.
For full subject description go to the Handbook entry for 207-401 Soil Management and Conservation
This subject is taught by Mr Tony Weatherley