Agriculture and Forestry in Finland (3cr)

Objective

Students will learn the technology of Finnish Agriculture and Forestry along with how it has shaped Finnish society. Students get acquainted with livestock production in Finland and learn the basic terms and concepts of animal husbandry and the Animal Welfare Act. They can explain common farming practices, and know the principles of management of disease risks and the manufacturing of quality products.

Students will learn how farm life is constantly changing but remains a corner piece of Finnish self-sufficiency and pride. Studies will focus on how technical and social developments have impacted the quality of life for farm owners, skilled laborers and neighboring communities.

Content

Farm structure, Number of livestock, Total annual production
Export and import of different products, self-sufficiency
Producer prices of different products, Average production levels
Multi-purpose uses of Forest in Finland
Impact of soil and climate
Familiarization with various plants
Familiarizing oneself with the basic farming machinery
Animal Welfare Act
European Union Membership
Organization of Finnish Municipalities and Agricultural Management

Qualifications

No previous studies are required.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

- Active participation in lectures and tutoring sessions
- Active participation in practical work assignments
- Six written comprehensive case-studies about Finnish Crops, Animal Production and Machinery
- Daily journal of farm experience, excursions and curriculum
-Grading 5=A, 4=B, 3=C, 2 or 1=D, 0=Fail

Materials

? www.matilda.maataloustilastot.fi (also available in English)
? www.ymparisto.fi
? Online material will be given during lectures