Grassland Science

Wedi cwblhau'r modiwl dylai'r myfyrwyr fedru:

1. Detail the range and distribution of grasslands and forages and the characteristics of the major herbage species.
2. Review and evaluate the development of new forage crops for use in pasture-based systems.
3. Evaluate the influence of management and environment on pasture composition and critically appraise forage cropping programmes.
4. Evaluate grazing and forage conservation requirements and evaluate grassland and forage management plans and conservation systems in order to provide optimum yield and quality.
5. Critically evaluate the potential for current research in grassland and forage crop production and utilisation to provide alternative methods of livestock feeding.
6. Demonstrate retained knowledge of recent developments within grassland science

This module will consider in detail the principles and practices underpinning the husbandry of grassland, forages and non-cereal arable crops with particular reference to livestock nutrition. The range and distribution of grassland and forage crops and factors influencing growth and development and their manipulation will be examined. The specific needs of individual animal species, forage-based problems and disorders and the role of plant breeding and management will be investigated. The roles of nutrient management and environmental protection will be a theme throughout as will strategies for grazing and forage preservation. Students will evaluate the management requirements of a range of forage crops and the factors that underpin a range of forage cropping systems. Current research being carried out in The Department of Life Sciences and IBERS will have a significant impact on the precise module content.

The module aims to introduce the students to the principles and practices of as well as the current research into grassland and forage management.

Module Introduction, Range and Distribution of Grassland Systems (2 hour lecture)
Pasture Species (2 hour lecture and 3 hour practical)
Nutritive Value and Plant Morphology (2 hour lecture)
Changing Pasture Composition (1 hour lecture + 3 hour fieldtrip)
Nitrogen Use Efficiency (2 hour lecture)
Grass modelling (3 hour workshop)
Grazing Management (2 hour lecture)
Journal Club (2 hour seminar)
Forage Preservation (2 hour lecture)
Grass breeding ( 2 hour lecture)
Module revision and exam preparation (2 hour workshop)

Mae'r modiwl hwn yn cydymffurfio a FfCChC Lefel 7