Posted: March 26, 2026
Gain hands-on experience designing agricultural conservation structures through field visits, AutoCAD projects, and real-world problem solving while building skills to protect soil, water, and farm productivity.
Students conducting a stream survey
Discover how engineering and agriculture come together to solve real environmental challenges.
ABSM 325: Conservation-Related Agricultural Structures (3 credits) is a hands-on course designed for students interested in sustainability, engineering, and natural resource protection.
Go beyond the classroom to explore how conservation structures improve farm operations while protecting soil and water. Learn how to plan and design structures like stream crossings, waste storage systems, and livestock watering systems—all aimed at reducing environmental impact while supporting farmers.
Course experiences:
- Use AutoCAD to design farm conservation structures
- Address soil erosion, runoff, and water quality challenges
- Apply best management practices (BMPs) in agricultural systems
- Conduct field topography survey using laser level and measuring wheel
- Visit real-world conservation sites
- Solve challenges in agricultural systems
- Network with engineers and industry professionals
This course is a great fit for students in:
- Agricultural and Biorenewable Systems Management
- Biological Engineering
- Environmental Resource Management
- Civil or Environmental Engineering
- Or anyone interested in agricultural conservation
With growing demand for professionals in agricultural conservation, this course prepares you with the technical and applied skills needed to make a difference.
Enroll now for Fall 2026.
- Learn more in the Bulletin.
- Contact Dr. Weiyun Hua at wvh5223@psu.edu.
Be part of the solution—design a more sustainable future for agriculture.
