CSP 201 MANUAL PDF

Introduction to General Agriculture

Overview of the Course

• Course Title: Introduction to General Agriculture (CSP 201)

• Institution: The Federal University of Technology, Akure

• School: School of Agriculture & Agricultural Technology

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to Agricultural Communication and Extension Technology

   • Meaning of agricultural extension

   • Philosophy and principles of agricultural extension

   • Concept of rural sociology in agricultural extension

   • Communication in agricultural extension

   • Key terminologies in agricultural extension

2. Introduction to Animal Production and Health

   • Classification of farm animals

   • Management systems for farm animals

   • Principles and problems of livestock production in Nigeria

   • Livestock management and diseases

   • Production systems and health management practices

3. Introduction to Agricultural and Resource Economics

   • Scope and importance of agricultural economics

   • Farm management principles

   • Farm planning and budgeting

   • Interaction with other agricultural disciplines

4. Introduction to Crop, Soil, and Pest Management

   • Classifications of crop plants

   • Land use for agriculture

   • Cultural practices in crop production

   • Soil composition and management strategies

5. Introduction to Ecotourism and Wildlife Management

   • Wildlife conservation and management techniques

   • Importance of ecological tourism

6. Introduction to Fisheries and Aquaculture Technology

   • Overview of fisheries management

   • Water resources in Nigeria

   • Fish farming production systems

   • Common fish species and diseases

7. Introduction to Food Science and Technology

   • Definitions of food science and its importance

   • Food processing operations and safety measures

   • Role of microorganisms in food

   • HACCP principles for food safety

8. Introduction to Forestry and Wood Technology

   • Importance of forestry

   • Forest management practices in Nigeria

   • Types of wood and their properties

9. Biotechnology

   • Definition and scope of biotechnology

   • Limitations of traditional biotechnology

   • Applications in agriculture and other fields

Introduction to Agricultural Communication and Extension Technology

Meaning of Agricultural Extension

• Agricultural extension serves as a crucial link in enhancing agricultural productivity by transferring scientific agricultural technologies to farmers. It focuses on improving farming methods and techniques to raise the living standards of agricultural communities.

Philosophy and Principles of Agricultural Extension

• Extension philosophy is based on the belief that farmers are intelligent and capable of improving their lives with the right information. Key principles include understanding farmers' needs, encouraging participation, and promoting local leadership in decision-making.

Role of Rural Sociology in Agricultural Extension

• Rural sociology helps agricultural extension workers understand the social structures and dynamics within rural communities, facilitating better communication and more effective program implementation.

Communication in Agricultural Extension

• Effective communication is essential for sharing knowledge and encouraging farmers to adopt new practices. The extension process relies on various methods including one-on-one interactions, group meetings, and mass communication channels.

Introduction to Animal Production and Health

Classification of Farm Animals

• Farm animals can be classified into:

  • Ruminants (e.g., cattle, sheep)

  • Non-ruminants (e.g., pigs, poultry)

Management Systems for Farm Animals

• The common animal husbandry systems include:

  • Nomadic: Moving livestock between pastures

  • Free Range: Animals are allowed to roam farmyards

  • Intensive: Animals are kept in controlled environments for higher productivity.

Issues in Livestock Production in Nigeria

• Major challenges include:

  • Inadequate feeding and nutrition

  • Poor animal health management

  • Lack of access to markets and finance.

Introduction to Agricultural and Resource Economics

Scope of Agricultural Economics

• Agricultural economics deals with resource allocation in farming practices impacting productivity and sustainability. Important subjects include:

  • Farm management

  • Agricultural policy analysis

  • Marketing of agricultural products.

Farm Management Principles

• Key responsibilities of farm managers include:

  • Setting objectives and planning operations

  • Decision making and implementation

  • Monitoring and evaluating farm performance.

Introduction to Crop, Soil, and Pest Management

Classifications of Crop Plants

• Crops are categorized based on growth duration:

  • Annuals (completed in one year)

  • Biennials (requiring two years)

  • Perennials (living for multiple years).

Land Use for Agriculture

• Land allocation strategies are essential for effective farming. Key systems include shifting cultivation and mixed cropping.

Introduction to Ecotourism and Wildlife Management

Wildlife Conservation

• Effective management of wildlife resources is crucial for environmental stability and economic benefits. Strategies include:

  • Establishing national parks and wildlife reserves

  • Promoting ecotourism that respects ecological principles.

Introduction to Fisheries and Aquaculture Technology

Fish Production in Nigeria

• Fish production can be based on capture fisheries or aquaculture systems. Major objectives include increasing protein supply and sustainable resource management.

Aquaculture Systems

• Different systems involved in aquaculture are:

  • Earthen ponds

  • Cage farming

  • Integrated systems with rice cropping.

Introduction to Food Science and Technology

Food Science Principles

• Food Science blends biology, chemistry, and engineering to ensure food safety and quality. Important concepts include:

  • Microbial safety and control

  • Preservation techniques like freezing and drying.

HACCP Principles

• HACCP is a proactive system focused on food safety through the identification and management of risks in food production.