Through a balance mixture of classroom lectures, group discussion and projects and hands on field sessions, this course covers foundational ecological principles underlying biotic interactions in rice agro-ecosystems and their translation into pest and weed management strategies. Additionally the course will also cover the principles and conduct of farmer participatory research as a foundation for technology transfer of pest and weed management strategies.
Objectives
During the course, participants will have the opportunity to acquire knowledge and skills in:
- Applying knowledge of ecology toward the management of rodents, insects and weeds in rice agro-ecosystems
- Using the scientific approach to study pest management at a landscape level;
- Applying field and simple computer models that lead to better management;
- Decision analysis of pest problems, and determining processes and factors that influence farmer’s decisions;
- Principles for effective transfer of knowledge to end users (e.g. extension officers, farmers, policy makers)
Key Modules
- General ecology: principles and methodologies
- Rodent ecology and management
- Insect ecology and management
- Weed ecology and management
- Farmer participatory research
Target Audience
- Government officials
- NARES/NGOs/CBOs
- Scientists
- Private Sector agri-business employees (large and small)
- Students
- Anyone who is interested!
Prerequisites
- None. However participants should note that the course does require some outdoor physical exertion