Large surpluses of phosphorus (P) are common in areas of intensive animal production, and are often associated with the accumulation of P to excessive levels in soils and subsequent P losses to surface waters by erosion and surface or subsurface runoff. Recently, sub-surface transport of P from agricultural soils to ground water is of particular concern in coastal plain agro-ecosystems due to high accumulations of dissolved reactive P in surface and sub-surface soil horizons due to long term poultry litter use. This project evaluated the effect of manure management strategies on P leaching from field plots. Plots were amended with poultry litter at three rates: N-based; P-based; no litter. Leachate P concentrations obtained from piezometers at 30 and 60 cm depths ranged widely, with maximum concentrations greater than 10 mg/L in plots receiving N-based litter applications. Results highlight the critical role of manure management in controlling sub-surface P transport.
See more of Characterization and Environmental Impacts of Phosphorus
See more of A05 Environmental Quality
See more of The ASA-CSSA-SSSA International Annual Meetings (November 6-10, 2005)