Agricultural engineering, also known as agricultural and biosystems engineering, is the field of study and application of engineering science and designs principles for agriculture purposes, combining the various disciplines of mechanical, civil, electrical, food science, environmental, software, and chemical engineering to improve the efficiency of farms and agribusiness enterprises[1] as well as to ensure sustainability of natural and renewable resources.
An agricultural engineer is an engineer with an agriculture background. Agricultural engineers make the engineering designs and plans in an agricultural project, usually in partnership with an agriculturist who is more proficient in farming and agricultural science.
Agricultural engineers may perform tasks such as planning, supervising and managing the building of dairy effluent schemes, irrigation, drainage, flood water control systems, performing environmental impact assessments, agricultural product processing and interpret research results and implement relevant practices. A large percentage of agricultural engineers work in academia or for government agencies. Some are consultants, employed by private engineering firms, while others work in industry, for manufacturers of agricultural machinery, equipment, processing technology, and structures for housing livestock and storing crops. Agricultural engineers work in production, sales, management, research and development, or applied science.
The three departments mentioned, namely the Department of Soil and Water Engineering, Department of Agricultural Machinery, and Department of Agricultural Energy and Environment, play crucial roles in the field of agriculture and environmental science. Each department has its own specific aims, which are summarized below:
1.Department of Soil and Water Engineering:
The Department of Soil and Water Engineering focuses on the study of soil and water management in agriculture. Its primary aims include:
- Conducting research to improve soil productivity and fertility.
- Developing sustainable irrigation and drainage systems for efficient water use.
- Designing erosion control measures to prevent soil erosion and degradation.
- Analyzing and managing the quality of water resources in agricultural settings.
- Providing technical support and expertise to farmers and agricultural industry professionals in soil and water management practices.
2.Department of Agricultural Machinery:
The main goal of the Department of Agricultural Machinery is to advance the knowledge and application of machinery in agricultural practices. Its aims encompass:
- Designing and developing advanced agricultural machinery and equipment for improved efficiency and productivity.
- Conducting research to enhance the performance and functionality of agricultural machinery.
- Assessing the social, economic, and environmental impacts of different machinery and technologies in agriculture.
- Providing training and education to farmers and technicians on the operation, maintenance, and safety aspects of agricultural machinery.
- Collaborating with industry stakeholders to promote the adoption of modern agricultural machinery and technologies.
3.Department of Agricultural Energy and Environment:
The Department of Agricultural Energy and Environment primarily focuses on sustainable energy use and environmental conservation in agriculture. Its aims include:
- Investigating renewable energy sources and techniques to reduce reliance on non-renewable energy in farming operations.
- Assessing and optimizing energy efficiency in agricultural processes, such as irrigation, livestock production, and crop processing.
- Promoting the integration of environmentally friendly practices, such as organic farming and integrated pest management, to minimize environmental impacts.
- Evaluating and mitigating the environmental risks associated with agricultural activities, such as greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, and soil degradation.
- Developing policies and guidelines for sustainable agricultural practices that prioritize energy conservation and environmental protection.
Overall, these three departments work together to address various challenges and advance sustainability in the field of agriculture, particularly in terms of soil and water management, machinery utilization, and energy efficiency with consideration for environmental preservation.