Management Practices for Biodiversity in Landscape Horticulture

The module will provide participants with an in depth appreciation for the role of landscape horticulture in conserving and enhancing biodiversity as a vital part of a functional landscape. Participants will be able to identify native species and the multi-purpose uses of trees from food, fodder, and fuel production to habitat provision. The vital role and management of field boundary hedgerows for biodiversity, carbon sequestration and water cycling will be emphasised as will the importance of developing linked habitats for both domestic and wild native species in organic and biological production systems. Participants will develop field survey skills in aquatic and terrestrial habitats for biodiversity assessment, evaluation, and monitoring. Support initiatives and policy developments will be reviewed in the context of their relevance to incorporating agroforestry and biodiversity management for ecosystem services and climate resilient growing systems.

Delivery

The module will be delivered using a blended learning approach as part of the MSc/PG Diploma in Organic and Biological Horticulture. Theoretical aspects and core principles will be taught through online lectures, designed to be interactive and conducive to discussion. Guest speakers, including researchers, practitioners, and experienced horticulture producers, and ecologists will contribute to these sessions where relevant, providing insights into the thematic areas under study. To complement the theory, practical case studies such as natural resource audits and surveys will be conducted, some of which can be undertaken on the student's own or employer's farm, or workplace, enhancing their understanding and application of module concepts.

On successful completion of this module, a student will be able to:

1. Describe the benefits and ecosystem functions provided by agroforestry and biodiverse landscapes.
2. Evaluate native and non-native perennial plants grown for medicinal and food use and evaluate their suitability for market.
3. Select native tree species with suitable growth habits for their satisfactory development in different environments.
4. Conduct a biodiversity action plan/survey for a selected farm or off farm landscape.
5. Assess the quality of, and produce remedial actions for, the enhancement of field boundaries and hedgerow habitats on a sample farm.
6. Design a biodiversity enhancement plan that sensitively integrates native and non-native species in a private or public amenity landscape.
7. Interpret the likely impact agroforestry and biodiversity research findings have on the development of climate resilient landscapes.

Discounted / Part-Funded Places Through NOTS:

Eligible participants in Ireland can avail of a 40% cost reduction on course fees through our MSc course partners National Organic Training Skillnet. Contact NOTS by calling 071 9640688 or email [email protected] for more information on eligibility for these reduced fees.