Forage Conservation

Biology, microbiology, general agriculture and agricultural machinery.

Expository methodology for the presentation of theoretical concepts.
Monitoring of practical cases that illustrate the subjects presented and allow the perception by the students of the application of the concepts enunciated.
Analysis of articles, viewing of videos and case studies.
Contact with ESAC’s farm and others nearby.

1 – Recognize the interest and factors to consider when choosing a forage conservation system
2 – Know the basics of forage conservation as hay or silage, fodder storage and distribution
3 – Identify factors affecting the quality of the preserved fodder.

1 – Conservation processes: hay, silage, haylage and dehydration.
2 – Mechanisms inherent to drying: loss of water and nutrients in the plants after cutting;
3 – Importance of the intrinsic characteristics of fodder on the performance of microorganisms involved in fermentation processes;
4 – Influence of different technologies used on conservation processes;
5 – Machines and standard equipment for the establishment of operational chains for forage conservation;
6 – Dimensioning of silos and other storage structures of preserved fodder, depending on specific conditions of use;
7 – Quantitative and qualitative losses in conservation processes.

A - Continuous Assessment
Considering the rules defined in the ESAC 1st Cycle Regulations, the course grade results from two written tests (with multiple-choice, short-answer, guided-response questions, and problem-solving based on concrete situations) and attendance and participation in classes.

· The mathematical expression that determines the grade obtained in the course is as follows:
· Final grade for the course = 0.50 Written Test_1 + 0.50 Written Test_2

· Cumulative conditions for approval:
- Compliance with the minimum number of attendances, or equivalent legal determination;
- Minimum grade for each assessment element: 9.5
- Minimum final grade: 9.5

Dismissed from the exam: with successful completion of the UC.
Partially dismissed from exam: assessment elements with a minimum grade of 9.5.

B - Assessment by Exam
- In the final exam, students who were assessed by continuous assessment are partially dismissed from the assessment element(s) in which they obtained a minimum grade of 9.5, this being the respective grade that is weighted in the calculation of the Final Grade.

· In all cases, the mathematical expression that determines approval in the final exam is as follows:
· Final Grade = (0.50 x Test_1 Grade) + (0.50 x Test_2 Grade)

- In the final exam, for students who were not assessed by continuous assessment, the mathematical expression that determines approval in the final exam is as follows:
· Final Grade = Written Exam Grade
· Cumulative conditions for approval:
- Minimum Final Grade: 9.5

NAO