Hobart, Launceston
Introduction
This unit introduces the principles and practical skills used to manage agricultural pests, including weeds, insects and plant diseases. It provides a foundation for many of the core capabilities required in the day-to-day role of an agronomist, including weed identification, pest and disease monitoring, field-based decision making, and the responsible use of crop protection products. Students explore a range of pest management approaches, including host plant resistance, cultural control and biological control, and learn how these strategies are combined through Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to effectively manage pest risks while reducing reliance on pesticides. The unit also examines the importance of biosecurity in preventing the introduction and spread of new agricultural pests.
Summary
| Unit name | Crop Protection and Biosecurity |
| Unit code | KLA311 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | Sciences and Engineering Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture |
| Discipline | Agriculture and Food Systems |
| Coordinator | Doctor Jonathan Finch |
| Available as an elective? | Yes |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Advanced |
Sustainable Development Goals
The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.
Availability
Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August
Key Dates
| Study Period | Start date | Census date | WW date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 2 | 4/7/2027 | 26/7/2027 | 29/8/2027 | 23/10/2027 |
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).
Unit census dates currently displaying for 2027 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2027 will be available from the 1st October 2026. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- Apply weed science to identify and manage weeds in pasture and cropping systems.
- Determine appropriate pesticide handling and biosecurity practices using Australian crop protection regulations.
- Plan integrated pest and disease management systems using chemical, cultural, biological and host resistance controls.
- Evaluate factors affecting sustainable implementation of integrated pest and disease management in agricultural systems.
Fee Information
2027 fee information will be available in August.
Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | 2 x 50 min seminars per week; 1 x 3 hr practical per week |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Theory quiz (10%)|Final exam (30%)|Pesticide test (30%)|Weed ID and weed collection (30%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
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The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.