Our Goal

• To provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to understand the production of food and fiber.
• To provide students with the communications skills needed to interact with agricultural and environmental professionals.
• To provide a knowledge of crop production and soil science in a sustainable fashion.

Why major in Crop and Soil Science?

Students major in Crop and Soil Science for many reasons including one or more of the following:

1. They enjoy working with plants and soils in a predominately outdoor environment.
2. They like applying science to practical problems.
3. They enjoy working with farmers, growers, and other professionals locally, nationally, and internationally.
4. They want to play an integral role in environmental decisions related to soil conservation, crop production, land use, water quality, or waste management.
5. They want to contribute to the needs of present and future generations by providing healthy food while maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment.
6. They desire to experience an enjoyable and satisfying quality of life that comes from understanding the growth of plants and being a part of the process that provides the most basic of
   human needs—food.

What Do Crop and Soil Scientists Do?

Crop and soil scientists use their natural curiosity and enthusiasm for science to help solve some of the toughest problems facing humanity: producing sufficient and affordable food for an increasing population and doing it in a way that protects and preserves our environment. Crop and soil scientists are also involved in protecting soil and water resources and preventing surface water and groundwater pollution.

Many professional crop and soil scientists work closely with farmers, providing information and recommendations to help solve crop and soil related problems, develop nutrient management and soil conservation plans, and design integrated pest management strategies. In all cases crop and soil scientists strive to make agriculture efficient, environmentally sound, profitable, and sustainable for future generations.

Faculty and Facilities

There are six faculty in the crop and soil science program within the plant and earth science department who teach core courses and advise students in the major. Courses directly supporting the major are taught by faculty in environmental science, geology, agricultural economics, agricultural engineering, animal science, and biology. Modern and well-equipped laboratories, computer facilities, and two laboratory farms round out an excellent setting for students studying in crop and soil science.