Who is this course for?
- Those working as advisers, representatives, farmers and farm managers involved in arable crop production and management
- Those who wish to pass the BASIS examination leading to a certificate in Soil and Water Management
What are the course objectives?
- Appreciate the principles governing the maintenance of soil organic matter contents, maintenance of good soil structure and methods for the prevention of water and wind erosion
- Appreciate the legal requirements for the protection of soil and the maintenance of soil health
- Appreciate the mechanics, economics and environmental aspects of cultivation
- Appreciate the relationships between soil and water management to enable best use of land and minimisation of diffuse pollution
- Understand the role of plant nutrients in crop production and their application, all with due regard for environmental protection
- Understand the advantages, risks and legal aspects of the application of farm manures and other organic manure products to land
What does the course teach?
- Soil protection and soil health
- Prevention of water and wind erosion
- Mechanics, economics and environmental aspects of cultivation
- Soil physical properties – texture and structure
- Soil organic matter
- Soil water properties
- Drainage and irrigation
- Plant macro/micronutrients and fertiliser planning
- Manures and soil organic inputs to enhance crop growth and their effects on diffuse pollution
How long is the course?
- Five days plus one day examination
- Examination includes 20 multiple choice questions, 3 short answer papers and a Farm Management Plan (open book VIVA exam in a field)
What qualification does it provide?
- BASIS Soil and Water Management Certificate and 25 Continuing Professional Development points (CPD)
- The course also contributes to the BASIS Diploma in Agronomy and the Harper Adams University College ‘Graduate Diploma in Agronomy with Environmental Management’.
What does it cost?
£1450 plus VAT to include exam fees, materials and lunch on each day
