Course Overview
In this foundational course, students will learn about soil formation, physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils; forest humus; and soil sampling and soil classification systems. Students will practice observing, measuring, describing, and recording different soil properties in the field and in the lab. Students will also practice interpreting and classifying soil data to better understand soil properties and how they relate to plant growth and ecosystem development.
Prerequisite(s)
- No prerequisites are required for this course.
Credits
3.0
- Not offered this term
- This course is not offered this term. Notify me to receive email notifications when the course opens for registration next term.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Explain why soil is important and how soil relates to ecosystem/wildlife management.
- Describe dominant factors and processes involved in soil formation.
- Examine a soil pit and record a soil description of the properties of that soil, including the forest floor.
- Use soil sampling tools and soil analysis tools to collect data on soil properties, in the field and the lab.
- Predict soil characteristics such as soil drainage, soil fertility, compactibility, and suitability for plant growth based on observed soil properties.
- Classify soil into the appropriate soil order in the Canadian System of Soil Classification (CSSC) based on soil descriptions and diagnostic horizons.
Effective as of Fall 2023
Related Programs
Identifying and Describing Soils (RENR 1320) is offered as a part of the following programs:
- Indicates programs accepting international students.
School of Construction and the Environment
- Fish, Wildlife and Recreation
Diploma Full-time
- Forest and Natural Areas Management
Diploma Full-time
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.