Aim of the course is to introduce the student to the processes that degrade the soil (e.g. erosion, shallow landslide) due to agricultural management techniques. Their measurement, avoidance and management are also discussed. Student learning outcomes are the following: • Knowledge of basic concepts of hydrogeology as a function of the assessment of water resources and soil degradation in agro-ecosystems; • Ability to evaluate current and potential soil degradation processes in relation to the different types of agricultural management and climate change scenarios; • Knowledge of the correct mitigation methods (e.g. Nature Based Solutions) aimed at preventing and remedying soil degradation in agro-ecosystems, taking into account the geological conditions
Teaching Methods
The course consists of lectures to illustrate the theory and tutorial sessions where the emphasis is on applications and problem solving. Each topic is illustrated with the support of experimental and observational evidences and well-documented case histories concerning soil degradation.
Assessment Methods
At the end of the course, a final examination will be scheduled, consisting in a two hours-written test with open questions regarding the topics of the course.
Texts
Course notes, scientific articles will be provided during the course.
Contents
Soil degradation phenomena: • typologies (shallow landslide, erosion, compaction, etc..) , • predisposing and triggering factors, • relationship between soil degradation and agricultural practices in different agro-ecosystems (e.g. vineyards, olive groves, orchard) Structural and non-structural interventions for the prevention and mitigation of soil degradation in agro-ecosystems: analysis of the geological factors to be considered in their design.
