Course ID: WTRS010

Name: WTRS010 INTRODUCTION - FROM WASTE TO RESOURCE

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Objectives:

1. Introduction to permaculture and permaculture principles.
2. Learn about waste on a local, national and global scale.
3. Look at waste as a resource and how the 12 guiding principles of permaculture can be applied

Course Description: 

This course introduces students to the world of permaculture and the transformative power of sustainable resource management. Students will delve into the principles of permaculture, gaining insights into its holistic and regenerative approach to design. With a keen focus on waste, students will explore waste-related challenges on local, national, and global levels. The course will illuminate how permaculture's 12 guiding principles can be harnessed to shift our perspective on waste, catalyzing a paradigm shift from waste as a problem to waste as a valuable resource.

By the end of this course, students will possess the foundational knowledge needed to embark on a journey toward sustainable resource utilization and ecological harmony.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: WTRS020

Name: WTRS020 COMPOSTING & BIOMASS - THE BACKYARD COMPOSTER

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Objectives:

1. Understand the process of composting, and how to control variables.
2. Understand the elements of an anaerobic and aerobic composting system.
3. Understand the range of composting systems available.

Course Description: 

This course examines the intricacies of composting and gain the knowledge needed to control variables, ensuring successful composting outcomes. Students will explore the elements of both anaerobic and aerobic composting systems, equipping them to choose the most suitable method for their needs.

With a comprehensive overview of available composting systems, this course will empower students to make informed decisions about sustainable waste management contributing to a healthier environment and greener future.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: WTRS030

Name: WTRS030 COMPOSTING & BIOMASS - THE COMMERCIAL COMPOSTER

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Outcomes:

• Community composting and the importance of bringing people together.
• Looking at decentralized models of processing waste.
• Review new and upcoming composting methods.
• Understanding larger scale vermicomposting.
• Understanding the roles of organisms in compost.
• Show different ways of using compost.
• Using compost to grow food.

Course Description: 

This course explores the significance of community composting, emphasizing the importance of uniting people in the quest for sustainable waste solutions. Students will examine decentralized models of waste processing, unlocking innovative approaches to waste management and reviewing new and upcoming composting methods that are shaping the future of sustainable resource utilization. Students will develop an understanding of larger-scale vermicomposting and the critical roles played by organisms in the composting process. This course will also showcase the myriad applications of compost, from enriching soil for food production to fostering environmentally friendly practices.

By the end of this course, students will be equipped to lead and participate in large-scale composting efforts that harness the power of community collaboration and sustainable resource management.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: WTRS040

Name: WTRS040 COMPOSTING & BIOMASS - THE INDUSTRIAL COMPOSTER

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Objectives:

• Appreciate the large volumes of waste people create and how to deal with waste in a responsible way.
• Understanding the correct equipment for industrial composting.
• Explore the regulations of composting industrial waste.
• Understand how to deal with composting products in a responsible way through various examples.

Course Description:

This course engages students in understanding the vast volumes of waste generated by society and the imperative need for responsible waste management. Students will examine the intricacies of industrial composting, including the selection of the correct equipment for efficient and large-scale operations and ensuring compliance with environmental standards. Through practical examples, students will learn how to manage composting products responsibly, fostering sustainability and eco-friendly practices.

By the end of this course, students will possess the expertise needed to address the challenges of industrial waste, transforming waste streams into valuable resources while adhering to responsible waste management practices and regulations.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: WTRS010

Name: WTRS050 WATER COLLECTION & CONSERVATION - RAINWATER & WATERSHEDS

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Objectives:

• By the end of this unit, the participant will be able to define and identify the importance of watersheds and rainwater in permaculture systems.

Course Outcomes:

• The Importance of Water in Permaculture.
• Identifying Sources of Water.
• Identifying Your Watershed.
• Calculating Your Rainfall and Rainfall Budget.
• Rainwater Storage Systems.

Course Description: 

This course explores the fundamental role of water in permaculture systems and provides students with the knowledge to define and recognize the paramount importance of watersheds and rainwater in permaculture. Students will examine the vital significance of water in sustainable land management, identify various sources of water that underpin permaculture practices, and understand how to pinpoint their watershed and calculate their rainfall and rainfall budget, essential for effective resource planning.

By the end of this course, students will be well-prepared to integrate rainwater and watershed principles into their permaculture designs, contributing to ecological sustainability and resource optimization.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: WTRS060

Name: WTRS060 WATER COLLECTION & CONSERVATION - WATER HARVESTING

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Objectives:

By the end of this unit, the participant will be able to explain and identify the importance of water harvesting in permaculture systems.

Course Description: 

This course examines the critical importance of water harvesting in permaculture systems, equipping students to articulate and identify its significance. By the end of this course, students will be well-versed in the principles of water harvesting and prepared to integrate this essential practice into permaculture systems, enhancing sustainability and resource conservation.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: WTRS070

Name: WTRS070 WATER COLLECTION & CONSERVATION - WATER CONSERVATION

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Objectives:

By the end of this unit, the participant will be able to explain how water conservation is used in the development of permaculture systems.

Course Description: 

This course allows students to discover the art of water conservation and its pivotal role in the development of permaculture systems. By the end of this course, students will be able to explain how water conservation principles are harnessed in the creation of sustainable permaculture systems through exploration of diverse water-saving methods and practices, including rainwater catchment and storage, swales with a base path, gravel-filled trenches, container-based systems, ponds, the strategic use of mulch and organic matter, and the influence of surrounding microclimates.

This course will equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to implement water conservation strategies effectively, fostering sustainability and ecological harmony in permaculture systems.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: WTRS080

Name: WTRS080 CAPSTONE - WATER RESOURCE

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Objectives:

• At the end of this course, the participant will be able to apply all the material learned from P1B1 to P1B7 and apply it to a final capstone project.
• Decrease your waste footprint and divert waste from the landfill.

Course Description: 

This capstone course serves as the culmination of the knowledge and skills acquired in the preceding seven WTRS courses. Student will apply their understanding of composting, watersheds, water harvesting and conservation to complete a capstone project requiring students to perform a home waste audit, evaluate the results, and devise a waste to resource solution using composting to address waste issues at home.

By the end of this course, students will be equipped to lead and participate in sustainable waste management, contributing to a greener and more eco-conscious world.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: CMEE010

Name: CMEE010 INTRODUCTION TO ALTERNATIVE ENERGY AND GREENHOUSES

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Description:

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: CMEE020

Name: CMEE020 ALTERNATIVE ENERGY - ACTIVE SYSTEMS

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Objectives:
By the end of this unit, the participant will be able to demonstrate and design an active energy system used in permaculture systems.

Course Description: 

This course allows students to develop an understanding of alternative energy active systems, covering heating and cooling systems that utilize mechanical energy, energy needs and conservation, electrical generation from sources such as solar photovoltaic, wind, micro-hydro, and geothermal, as well as biogas production.

By the end of this course, students will have examined the application of solar thermal technology, solar cooking, drying, and distillation, and hydraulic ram pumping.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: CMEE030

Name: CMEE030 ALTERNATIVE ENERGY - PASSIVE SYSTEMS

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Objective:
By the end of this unit, the participant will be able to demonstrate and design a passive energy system used in permaculture systems.

Course Description: 

This course introduces students to the realm of alternative energy passive systems, focusing on structures that are specifically designed to maximize the direct utilization of solar heat and light without the use of energy-converting devices. Students will examine the fundamental distinction between passive and active energy systems, where passive systems harness solar energy through ingenious design, placement, and material selection, while active systems rely on energy conversion devices.

By the course's conclusion, participants will be able to demonstrate and design passive energy systems commonly employed in permaculture systems.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: CMEE040

Name: CMEE040 ALTERNATIVE ENERGY - ELECTRICAL ENERGY

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Objective:
By the end of this unit, the participant will be able to demonstrate and design an electrical system used in permaculture systems.

Course Description: 

This course covers a wide range of alternative electrical energy sources used in permaculture systems, including solar photovoltaic panels, wind turbine systems, micro hydroelectric systems, energy conversion, storage, and monitoring. Students will develop an understanding of energy cycling and will gain awareness of designing and implementing electrical systems tailored for permaculture applications.

By the end of this course, students will become proficient in the principles and practices of alternative electrical energy, enabling them to design, construct, and manage sustainable electrical systems that promote eco-friendly energy solutions in permaculture settings.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: CMEE050

Name: CMEE050 SUSTAINABLE GREENHOUSES

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Outcomes:

1. Determine greenhouse orientation and location.
2. Evaluate types, design and structure of greenhouse.
3. Select greenhouse framing materials.
4. Select greenhouse glazing materials.
5. Estimate the cost of construction of greenhouse.

Course Description: 

This course provides a comprehensive exploration of greenhouse design and construction, covering essential topics such as determining optimal greenhouse orientation and location, evaluating various types and structural designs, selecting appropriate framing, and glazing materials, and estimating construction costs.

By the end of this course, students will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed decisions when planning and building greenhouses, ensuring their functionality, energy efficiency, and cost-effectiveness for various agricultural or horticultural purposes.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: CMEE060

Name: CMEE060 SUSTAINABLE GREENHOUSES - CLIMATE AND CONTROL SYSTEMS

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Outcomes:

• Greenhouse heating and heat calculation.
• Greenhouse ventilation and cooling systems.
• Greenhouse insulation and shading.
• Greenhouse lighting and light systems.

Course Description: 

This course delves into the key aspects of greenhouse management, addressing critical topics such as greenhouse heating and heat calculation, ventilation and cooling systems, insulation and shading techniques, and lighting solutions. Students will gain understanding of how to maintain optimal environmental conditions within greenhouses, including temperature control, ventilation, insulation, and lighting, ensuring the healthy growth of plants and the efficient operation of greenhouse facilities.

By the course's conclusion, students will be well-prepared to design and manage environmentally controlled greenhouse systems, fostering ideal conditions for various crops and plants.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: CMEE070

Name: CMEE070 SUSTAINABLE GREENHOUSES - WATER RESOURCES

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Outcomes:

• Understand the parts of a water catchment system including water source, collection, distribution and storage.
• Determine the various water harvesting earthworks to help slow, spread, and sink water into the landscape.
• Identify ways to conserve water at multiple scales (home to regional).
• Hydroponics.

Course Description: 

This course explores water management, encompassing essential topics such as understanding the components of a water catchment system, including water source identification, collection methods, distribution, and storage techniques. Students will gain insight into water harvesting earthworks for landscape integration to effectively slow, spread, and store water. Students will examine strategies for water conservation at various scales, from individual homes to regional contexts, fostering sustainable and responsible water use including the principles and practices of hydroponics, enabling them to cultivate plants without soil, thus maximizing water efficiency and resource utilization.

By the course's conclusion, students will possess a holistic understanding of water systems, conservation methods, and hydroponic cultivation, empowering them to make informed decisions in managing and conserving water resources.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: CMEE080

Name: CMEE080 CAPSTONE - ALTERNATIVE ENERGY AND GREENHOUSES

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Outcome:

• At the end of this course, the participant will be able to apply all the material learned from P3B1 to P3B7 and apply it to a final capstone project.

Course Description: 

This capstone course serves as the culmination of the knowledge and skills acquired in the preceding seven CMEE courses. Students will apply their understanding of sustainable land management, water conservation, and alternative energy systems to create a final capstone project requiring students to design a 2D Site diagram that provides a visual representation of their property layout highlighting their proficiency in synthesizing information from the previous courses and showcase their ability to apply this knowledge to practical, real-world projects that foster sustainable land use.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: SLPT010

Name: SLPT010 INTRODUCTION TO PERMACULTURE

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Outlines:

This course is the introduction course for the Micro credential Stream: Soils and Planting.

• Definitions of Permaculture.
• History of the Permaculture Movement.
• Ethics and Principles.
• Designing with Permaculture.
• Integration of Elements.
• Organic Practices.
• Conventional Agriculture vs. Permaculture.

Course Description:

Permaculture is a planned, efficient, and sustainable design system that replicates natural ecosystems, integrating environmental elements and ethical principles to improve human and ecological well-being.

Course readings examine the historical foundations of permaculture, differentiate permaculture and organic practices from conventional agriculture, and explore contemporary principles and methodologies. Apply the foundations of observation, site analysis, and available resources use, coupled with the strategic implementation of zoning strategies to begin planning and preparing your own permaculture site.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: SLPT020

Name: SLPT020 SOIL REGENERATION

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Outcomes:

This course is one of the three courses as part of the Soils micro-credential.

• Define soil.
• Understand the processes through which soil is formed.
• Describe soil horizons and soil profiles.
• Distinguish between soil types and textures.
• Describe the physical and chemical properties of soil, including soil nutrients and pH.

Course Description: 

Soil is more than just dirt, for without soil, there is no life! Begin the captivating journey into the field of soil science through engaging readings, videos, and hands-on activities like soil type and percolation testing.

Examine how soil is formed and describe the physical and chemical properties of soil, including organic content, nutrients, salinity, and pH. Proceed with a better understanding of how human and environmental factors affect soil health and consider critical relationship between soil, plant growth, and food production.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: SLPT030

Name: SLPT030 SOIL PROPERTIES

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Outcomes:

This course is one of the three courses as part of the Soils micro-credential.

• Describe the natural characteristics that impact management practices.
• Describe the environmental risks specific to individual natural characteristics and risks related to combinations of natural characteristics.
• Describe how management of natural characteristics relate to environmental risk.
• Explore the importance of organic components in soil.
• Define soil degradation and related beneficial management practices.
• Understand practices for sustainable growing systems based on soil type and other natural factors.

Description: 

Agricultural practices that work against natural land characteristics can have profound impacts, yet good stewardship is achievable to ensure safe water, biodiversity, and productive soil. Examine causes and effects of soil degradation, including erosion, contamination, salinization, and compaction.

With special emphasis on natural soil amendments and integrated pest management, learn how to assess your soil and implement management practices in your permaculture site that will save money and benefit the ecosystem and food production.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: SLPT040

Name: SLPT040 SOIL MANAGEMENT

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Outcomes:

This course is one of the three courses as part of the Soils micro-credential.

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

1. Explain farm ecology and inter-relationships amongst trophic levels in the soil food web.
2. Describe healthy soil and benefits of compost.
3. Demonstrate understanding of compost impact on soil properties and plant growth and harvest quality.

Description: 

Soil is a dynamic ecosystem made up of inter-relationships between living (biotic) and non-living (abiotic) components. Explore these relationships of the soil food web to better understand how to promote healthy soil, particularly with compost- an important source of organic matter and nutrients. Describe various types of organic soil amendments, comparing their effectiveness and impact on soil health.

Discover the many resources that can be composted, compare aerobic and anaerobic composting, and evaluate how to choose your composting method to have the best impact on soil health and plant growth.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: SLPT050

Name: SLPT050 PLANTING - GARDEN FUNDAMENTALS

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Objectives:

This course is one of three courses part of the Planting micro credential.

• Provide comprehensive knowledge of the foundation concepts, principles, methodology and techniques for successful edible outdoors on the Prairies.

Course Outcomes:

• Apply knowledge to create: an audit of your garden area; design the garden to optimize growing conditions; determine best plants to grow and in what structures;
• Implement soil cultivation, husbandry and conservation methods and techniques to ensure the health of garden soil and optimal harvests; and
• Encourage in-depth, additional reading and experiential ‘In the Garden’ learning to develop confidence and skills.

Course Description: 

Successful outdoor, edible gardening on the prairies requires the knowledge to match what you grow to your conditions. Learn specific techniques for soil cultivation and husbandry, then explore design elements like perennial plant gardens, herb spirals, food forests, hedges, and shelterbelts. Integrate soil health, light conditions, water availability, wind, and space to optimize growing conditions and choose the right plants for the right places.

Showcase your understanding of principles and methods to generate an audit of your own garden, using climate, topography, soil conditions, hydrology, and landscape features to promote optimal growing conditions.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: SLPT060

Name: SLPT060 PLANTING - INTRODUCTION TO WILDCRAFTING

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Description: 

Our ancestors relied heavily on gathering and processing local native plants to provide food, shelter, clothing, tools, and medicine. We may not rely on wild foraging for food anymore, but nature still offers many gifts if one knows what to look for. Through course materials and supplementary videos, discover some of the many useful plants that can be wild harvested or incorporated into a permaculture landscape.

Start your wild harvesting journey by exploring nature, keeping a wild plant journal, and learn how to preserve your harvest through drying, storing, fermenting, or brewing.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: SLPT070

Name: SLPT070 PLANTING - GROWING FOOD INDOORS

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

This course is one of the three courses as part of the Planting micro-credential

Course Outcomes:

1. Understand the importance of seeds, seed saving and impacts seeds have on growing food.
2. Explore the art and science of growing food in smaller spaces like our homes.

Course Description: 

Discover the essentials of growing food indoors in small spaces like homes, transforming shelves and south-facing windows into sustainable sources of nutrition. Explore the basics of cultivating seeds, sprouting microgreens, and growing herbs and veggies in kitchen spaces or unused areas. Dive into key elements like soils, fertilizers, containers, light, space, air, hydroponics, and aquaponics.

Inspired by successful practices at Métis Crossing in Smoky Lake, Alberta, this course provides practical insights into indoor food cultivation in our challenging climate.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: SLPT080

Name: SLPT080 CAPSTONE - SOILS AND PLANTING

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Objectives:

• The goal of permaculture design is to create intelligent design that works in harmony with natural forces. Permaculture design is a process that starts with the Permaculture Site Analysis.  This capstone course focuses on the permaculture site analysis portion of the permaculture design process.
• At the end of this course, the participant will be able to apply all the material learned from P3B1 to P3B7 and apply it to a final capstone project.

Course Description: 

Immerse yourself into the world of permaculture design, synthesizing expertise gained in P3B1-P3B7 to craft a comprehensive, personal, permaculture plan. Translate theory into action by conducting a thorough site analysis of macro and micro scale components.

Use provided templates, videos, and supplementary reading to prepare a base map, sun map, sector map, and zoning map. The final project will provide you with a tangible plan and empower you to start your permaculture journey with confidence.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: FDST010

Name: FDST010 INTRODUCTION TO FOOD SUSTAINABILITY

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Objectives:

1. Review Introduction to permaculture and permaculture principles (Optional).
2. Learn about waste on a local, national and global scale.
3. Introduction to regenerative farming and changing our focus from crop health to soil health.

Course Description: 

This course introduces food sustainability through the lens of permaculture. Students learn permaculture’s ethics and principles, such as observing the natural environment, harnessing energy, harvesting food, using renewables, leveraging biodiversity, and designing agricultural spaces. The course emphasizes the relationships between agricultural production, the natural environment, human communities, and sustainability.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: FDST020

Name: FDST020 SUSTAINABLE GARDENING FOR THE SEASONS

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Objectives:

• Provide comprehensive knowledge for successful edible gardening outdoors on the Prairies based on organic, permaculture and regenerative foundation concepts and principles.
• Provide detailed information for the various methods, techniques and practices for sustainable gardening and husbandry.

Course Description: 

In this course, students learn the practices and species that support sustainable, regenerative gardening on the Canadian Prairies. Land-based and traditional approaches to gardening combine with climate science and predictive models to maximize sustainable food production. Students will apply what they learn and plan a garden as a course project.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: FDST030

Name: FDST030 WEEDS, PESTS & BENEFICIAL INSECTS

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Outcomes:

At the end of this course:

• The student will be able to identify common weeds and the strategies to prevent and eliminate them.
• The student will be able to identify common pests and the strategies to prevent and eliminate them.
• The student will be able to identify the beneficial insects used in gardening and permaculture.

Course Description: 

This course applies the principles of permaculture to the management of weeds and insects in agricultural production. Students learn how to identify weeds and pests and how to sustainably manage them. There is additional emphasis on leveraging beneficial insects and other helpful features of the natural environment to improve food production. 

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: FDST040

Name: FDST040 LIVESTOCK AND WILDLIFE INTEGRATION

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Objectives:

By the end of this unit, the participant will be able to describe and demonstrate how to integrate wildlife into livestock operations in permaculture systems.

Course Description: 

Applying the principles of permaculture, this course focuses on raising livestock in a setting that promotes the health of the surrounding ecosystem, including wild animals, plants, and waterways. Students learn the most common animals found in permaculture and how to provide for their needs. There is an emphasis on maximizing the contribution of wild animals and wild plants to the raising of livestock and to permaculture farming in general.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: FDST050

Name: FDST050 FOOD PRESERVATION - WINTER STORAGE

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Outcomes:

After this course, the student will be able to:

1. Explain how numerous factors pre- and post-harvest can influence successful storage of fruits and vegetables.
2. To use their knowledge to be able to successfully store fruits and vegetables for the winter.

Course Description: 

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the successful strategies for storing food over winter and to the processes and pathogens that can harm food once it is harvested. Students learn how to harvest crops in a way that promotes their preservation and how to cure them for storage. A key component of the course is information about constructing and assembling the materials for different modes of storage.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: FDST060

Name: FDST060 FOOD PRESERVATION 1

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Outcomes:

After this course, the student will be able to:

1. Discuss the history of canning.
2. Perform canning, pickling, and fermenting processes at home.

Course Description: 

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to canning processes. Students learn the history of canning and gain the skills to successfully perform canning, pickling, and fermenting processes at home. The course includes instruction in water bath canning, pressure canning, pickling, in the production of jams, and in the production of fermented products such as sauerkraut and kimchi.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: FDST070

Name: FDST070 FOOD PRESERVATION 2

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Outcomes:

After this course, the student will be able to:

1. Discuss various preservation methodologies.
2. Perform freezing, salting and drying methods for preserving food.

Course Description: 

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the dry processes for food preservation. Students learn the procedures for salting, drying, smoking, and freezing to safely preserve food. The course includes the specifications of how to apply these preservative technologies to a variety of foods, including information about the structures and materials used to carry out these processes.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.

Course ID: FDST080

Name: FDST080 CAPSTONE - FOOD SUSTAINABILITY

Hours: 7

Credits: N/A

Course Description: 

Applying the principles of permaculture, students will integrate knowledge from the courses in the Food Sustainability program and apply it to an agricultural or food preservation project in one of the areas of study. Students may complete a project in 1) gardening, 2) weed and pest control, 3) livestock, 4) winter storage, or 5) food preservation.

Delivery: Asynchronous Online Micro-credential

Cost: $70

Micro-credential Badge: Upon completion of this course you will be awarded a Portage College Micro-credential badge.

Timelines: You may take this course at any time from January 2, 2023 to June 30, 2024.

Register for this course: training@portagecollege.ca or call 780-623-5631 or toll-free at 1-888-745-0719.