Introduction

Agricultural landscapes provide essential habitats for wildlife and support biodiversity when managed with conservation in mind. This course covers the integration of wildlife-friendly practices into farming, balancing productivity with environmental stewardship. Through case studies, field exercises, and expert-led workshops, participants will learn techniques to create wildlife habitats, enhance biodiversity, and promote coexistence between wildlife and agricultural activities.

Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will:

1. Understand the principles and benefits of integrating wildlife conservation in farming.
2. Learn habitat management and restoration techniques for biodiversity support.
3. Develop skills in sustainable pest control, pollinator support, and habitat connectivity.
4. Gain insights into monitoring wildlife impact and managing conflicts.
5. Create an actionable conservation plan that aligns with farm operations.

Who Should Attend?

This course is designed for:

• Farmers, agronomists, and agricultural managers interested in conservation.
• Environmental scientists, conservation specialists, and ecologists.
• Policy advisors, regulators, and extension officers focused on agriculture and wildlife.
• Researchers, educators, and students in agriculture, ecology, or environmental science.
• Anyone looking to enhance wildlife conservation within agricultural landscapes.

Day 1: Introduction to Wildlife Conservation in Farming Landscapes

Overview:
The first day introduces participants to the principles of wildlife conservation in agriculture, including its importance, benefits, and the role of biodiversity in farm ecosystems. Participants will explore the ecological and economic advantages of supporting wildlife on farms.

• Session 1: Principles of Wildlife Conservation in Agriculture: Importance and Benefits
• Session 2: Understanding Farm Ecosystems and Their Role in Biodiversity
• Session 3: Economic and Ecological Advantages of Wildlife-Friendly Farming
• Session 4: Workshop: Assessing Conservation Potential on Agricultural Land

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the role of wildlife conservation in sustainable agriculture.
• Knowledge of ecological benefits and biodiversity support within farm ecosystems.
• Skills to assess conservation opportunities on agricultural land.

Day 2: Habitat Management and Restoration Techniques

Overview:
Day two focuses on creating and managing habitats that support wildlife within agricultural landscapes, including techniques for hedgerows, buffer zones, and shelterbelts. Participants will learn how to design habitats that integrate with farming activities.

• Session 1: Habitat Creation and Restoration: Hedgerows, Buffer Zones, and Shelterbelts
• Session 2: Wetlands, Riparian Zones, and Field Margins for Wildlife Support
• Session 3: Designing Wildlife Corridors and Habitat Connectivity on Farms
• Session 4: Field Activity: Planning and Creating Habitat Features for Wildlife Conservation

Key Takeaways:

• Techniques for creating wildlife habitats on farms, including hedgerows and buffer zones.
• Knowledge of habitat connectivity and its importance for biodiversity.
• Practical experience in designing and implementing habitat features.

Day 3: Supporting Pollinators, Beneficial Insects, and Native Species

Overview:
This day focuses on practices that support pollinators, beneficial insects, and native species, which contribute to ecosystem health and agricultural productivity. Participants will learn how to create habitats that attract and support these valuable species.

• Session 1: Enhancing Pollinator Habitats: Wildflower Strips, Nectar Sources, and Nesting Sites
• Session 2: Beneficial Insects and Biological Pest Control in Conservation Farming
• Session 3: Supporting Native Species and Minimizing Habitat Disruption
• Session 4: Workshop: Developing a Pollinator and Beneficial Insect Support Plan

Key Takeaways:

• Knowledge of habitat features that attract pollinators and beneficial insects.
• Skills in creating habitats that support pest control and ecosystem services.
• Practical experience in planning pollinator and insect support features.

Day 4: Sustainable Pest Management and Conflict Mitigation

Overview:
Day four covers sustainable pest management practices that reduce the need for chemical pesticides while promoting biodiversity. Participants will also explore strategies for managing conflicts with wildlife that may impact farm productivity.

• Session 1: Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for Wildlife-Friendly Farming
• Session 2: Natural Predators and Biological Pest Control Strategies
• Session 3: Managing Human-Wildlife Conflicts: Fencing, Deterrents, and Habitat Design
• Session 4: Workshop: Creating a Sustainable Pest Management and Conflict Mitigation Plan

Key Takeaways:

• Techniques for implementing IPM and reducing reliance on pesticides.
• Skills in promoting natural pest control through habitat management.
• Strategies for managing conflicts with wildlife in a conservation-friendly way.

Day 5: Monitoring, Evaluation, and Developing a Conservation Plan

Overview:
The final day focuses on monitoring and evaluating conservation efforts, as well as creating a customized wildlife conservation plan. Participants will learn techniques for tracking wildlife impact and adjusting management practices to maximize conservation outcomes.

• Session 1: Monitoring and Evaluating Wildlife Conservation Efforts on Farms
• Session 2: Adapting and Improving Conservation Practices Based on Monitoring Results
• Session 3: Integrating Wildlife Conservation into Long-Term Farm Management Plans
• Session 4: Final Workshop: Developing a Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Action Plan

Key Takeaways:

• Techniques for monitoring and evaluating wildlife conservation practices.
• Skills in adapting conservation strategies based on monitoring data.
• A complete conservation action plan to integrate wildlife conservation into farm operations.