Introduction
This unit will integrate prior learning to evaluate intensive agricultural production with a balanced focus on animal (dairy and beef), rotation and perennial horticultural systems. The unit will be complementary to ‘Broadacre cropping and pastures’ Agriculture with a focus on intensive resource use.
The horticultural production systems component will provide students with a detailed understanding of key physiological processes underlying horticultural crop production and post-harvest management practices designed to provide products desired by the market. The breadth of horticulture is considered including tree (fruit and nut) crops, viticulture and intensive vegetable production with some reference to industrial crops and amenity horticulture. Multiple field trips will underpin understanding of past and current production practices and systems and enable insight into potential future systems.
The animal production systems component will provide students with a detailed understanding of intensive dairy and beef production systems in northern Tasmania. The unit will examine the genetic, reproductive and technological foundations that underpin productivity in intensive livestock enterprises. Students will evaluate how system design, reproductive performance, genetic selection and emerging technologies contribute to profitability, efficiency and sustainability. Practical classes, including reproductive tract dissection, tutorials and a dairy visit, will support applied understanding of production targets and system performance in current and future livestock systems.
Summary
| Unit name | Intensive Production Systems |
| Unit code | KLA334 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | Sciences and Engineering Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture |
| Discipline | Agriculture and Food Systems |
| Coordinator | Professor Dugald Close |
| Available as an elective? | Yes |
| Delivered By | |
| Level | Advanced |
Availability
Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August
Learning Outcomes
- Explain how market forces impact on and inform horticultural production and post-harvest decisions.
- Relate physiological principles of plants to critically evaluate and critique past, present and future horticultural production systems.
- Use critical thinking and scientific evidence to inform future practices in animal production.
- Explain how technologies can enhance sustainable animal production to meet future needs
Fee Information
2027 fee information will be available in August.
Teaching
| Assessment | 3. Genetic/ Reproductive performance analysis report (20%)|Mid Semester Exam - Horticulture (25%)|Theory in practice field trip report (25%)|Final exam (30%) |
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| 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.