ES-380: Soil Genesis and Classification

An introduction to the chemical, physical, and biological properties of soils; the origin, classification and distribution of soils and their influence on people and food production; the management and conservation of soils; and the environmental impact of soil use. Units on soil geomorphology, sediments, slopes, engineering soils. Intensive labs and at least one weekend field trip will provide students a broad understanding and exposure to the various ways to investigate, describe, and classify soils, as well as how to apply knowledge of soils in a range of disciplines.