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1. Is Cover Crop Species Mixture and Diversity More Important at Building Soil Health than Shoot Biomass in a Semi-arid Region?Cover crop mixtures (CCMs) as partial fallow replacements have the potential to increase soil health, yet long-term studies on CCMs, especially in semi-arid environments are relatively rare. An eight-year study at two locations in semi-arid Montana sought to evaluate the effect of functional group (N fixer, tap roots, fibrous roots, brassicacae) and species richness (2, 6, and 8 species in a mix) on a range of biological, physical and chemical soil parameters. Although several soil healt... P. Miller, C. Jones, C. Zabinski, K. D'agati, M. Housman, S. Tallman |
2. The Elasticity of Biochar Across the Farm: Nutrient Capture, Compost Feedstock, and Soil AmendmentWhen biomass is thermochemically altered through pyrolysis, what results is biochar, a solid, porous material that is high in carbon (C) (e.g. 80%). Owing to its unique physicochemical properties, biochar has been evaluated as a soil amendment, a compost feedstock, a means to mitigate nutrient loss and a way to sequester carbon. Biochar is an appealing material as a farm management tool because its potential use is varied. As part of a Western SARE grant, soil scientists at ... N. Stacey, D. Collins |
3. The Fertilizer Recommendation Support Tool (FRST) Initiative: National Survey on Soil Fertility Recommendations and Correlation/Calibration DatabaseSoil fertility testing is an integral tool used in nutrient management planning, providing information needed to determine where nutrients are required and how much to apply. While a great deal of effort has been successfully invested in standardizing soil test methods in the U.S. over the last few decades, up-to-date correlation/calibration studies are lacking in many states. In most cases, soil test correlation/calibration efforts lead by land-grant universities are on a state-by-state or l... S.E. Lyons, J.T. Spargo, D.L. Osmond, A.W. Pearce, N.A. Slaton, D.K. Arthur, P.J. Kleinman, J.M. Mcgrath |
4. Evaluation of Lime Requirement Estimation Methods for Oregon Agricultural SoilsSoil testing labs in the Pacific Northwest are considering non-hazardous alternatives to the Shoemaker-McLean-Pratt (SMP) buffer method for lime requirement estimation (LRE). While alternative LRE methods have been adopted in other parts of the U.S., they have not been evaluated for Oregon soils. The goal of this study was to evaluate several LRE methods for agricultural soils from western and eastern Oregon, applying the lime incubation method for actual lime requirement. Twenty-four a... C. Evans, A. Moore, D. Sullivan |
5. 15Nitrogen Uptake and Use Efficiency in Corn in Response to Fertilizer Rate and TimingUrea fertilizer applications at planting are becoming increasingly common for U.S. upper Midwest corn (Zea mays L.) production but wet spring conditions may result in significant nitrogen (N) fertilizer loss. Split-applications may avoid wet conditions and improve fertilizer uptake and use efficiency. Six field studies were performed to determine the effect of urea fertilizer rate and application timing on fertilizer-derived N (FDN) and soil-derived N (SDN) plant uptake over two cons... F. Fernandez, J. Spackman |
6. New Hydroponic System for Testing Mineral Nutrient Deficiencies: QuinoaCorrelating plant tissue nutrient concentrations with visual symptoms is valuable in combating mineral nutrient deficiencies and toxicities. Major crops tend to have adequate information regarding nutrient concentrations and visual symptoms of deficiencies, but this is often lacking for minor crops, including quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa L.) Because nutrient concentrations can be easily controlled, hydroponics effectively demonstrate isolated specific nutrient related symptoms. Ho... D.L. Cole, D.T. Heidenreich, S.H. Stapley, A.M. Lambert, R.L. Buck, B.G. Hopkins |
7. Is Mitigation of Drought Stress By Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Driven By a Nano-Specific Mechanism or Alleviation of Micronutrient Deficiency?It has been reported that zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) can promote drought tolerance in crops when used as soil amendments. However, many of these experiments were conducted in Zn-deficient growth media with no comparison to currently available Zn fertilization methods, making it unclear if the benefits from adding ZnO NPs were caused by a nano-specifc mechanism or simply by the mitigation of a micronutrient deficiency. A review of the literature shows that of 12 published experimen... J.W. Deakin, M. Potter, A. Cartwright, J. Hortin, D. Sparks, J.E. Mclean, D.W. Britt, A.J. Anderson, A.R. Jacobson, L. Yen |
8. Soil Organic Carbon and Nitrogen Dynamics Under Dryland Sorghum in New MexicoSorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] serves as a low-cost alternative to corn (Zea mays L.) in semi-arid regions of the world because of its high N and water use efficiencies. However, there has been a concern regarding N loss to the atmosphere as nitrous oxide (N2O) from semi-arid drylands. This study investigated various soil C and N components, including CO2 and N2O emissions, and crop yield with a dairy compost (13.5 Mg ha-1) ... R. Ghimire, S. Salehin |
9. Evaluating Nutrient Uptake and Partitioning for Hybrid Carrot Seed Production in Central OregonHybrid carrot seed production is prominent in Central Oregon, however plant nutrient uptake dynamics in this crop are not well understood. The aim of this research was to evaluate nutrient uptake and partitioning during the production cycle of a modern Nantes-type hybrid carrot. Trials were conducted in two commercial carrot seed production fields planted to ‘Nantes 969’. Below- and above-ground plant biomass was destructively sampled and separated into roots, tops, and umbels thr... E. Jeliazkova, A. Moore, J. Spring, T. Wilson |
10. Denitrifying Woodchip Bioreactor Performance in the Pacific NorthwestRunoff and tile drainage from agricultural activity is known to be a significant contributor of nitrogen pollution to surface waters. Denitrifying woodchip bioreactors, also known as Permeable Reactive Barriers (PBR) have been studied as a possible edge-of-field technology for reducing nitrogen concentrations in agricultural runoff. These units have been studied mostly in the US Midwest and mostly for irrigated crop systems. Little work has been done in alternative climate r... E.M. Weisshaar |
11. Enhanced Efficiency Nitrogen Fertilizer: Coated UreaNitrogen is the most common fertilizer applied to crops, as it is typically the limiting nutrient in plants. However, about half of the nitrogen added to soil as fertilizer is either emitted to the atmosphere as ammonia, nitrous oxide or other gaseous forms, or finds its way into surface or ground waters as nitrate (Kibblewhite, 2007). The inefficient use of fertilizers depletes natural resources, and increases atmospheric emissions and environmental pollutants. With the use of enhanced effic... B. Geary, S.R. Fahning, B.G. Hopkins |
12. Enhanced Efficiency Phosphorus FertilizersPhosphorus (P) is essential for plants. However, first-year phosphorus fertilizer uptake by plants is low, resulting in economic and environmental impacts. Developments with P Enhanced Efficiency Fertilizer (EEF) sources show improved uptake efficiency and increased yield and/or crop quality, while reducing environmental risk. Research with EEFs (including organic acids, maleic itaconic copolymer, and struvite) all show these improvements, especially when: 1) soil test P concentrations are lo... B. Hopkins, S.J. Kobza, C. Seely |
13. Stacking and Intersecting Nutrient 4Rs and Using In-Season Canopy Health and Petiole Nitrate Analysis on Russet Burbank PotatoesThe 4Rs of nutrient management is a global outreach with an aim to improve the sustainability of major cropping systems and the environment. The objective for this project is to evaluate individual and stacked 4R management practices and how they intersect in Russet Burbank potato at a field near Grace, Idaho in 2020. Nitrogen (N) fertilizer treatments included all combinations of two sources [urea vs polymer coated urea (PCU)], two rates (207 vs. 247 kg ha-1), and two timing/place... S. Stapley, B. Hopkins |
14. Phosphorus and Potassium How Low Can You Go In Alfalfa?Tissues testing whole alfalfa plants at harvest can more accurately direct nutrient decisions. Developing critical nutrient levels in-season improves recommendations and applications, saving producers time, expense and effort since many growers take samples for hay quality. These three experiments were designed as follows: 1) Phosphorus (P) Rate study with differing rates of P2O5 using monoammonium phosphate (MAP); including: 0, 30, 60, 120, 240 lb P2O5... S. Norberg, S. Fransen, J. Harrison, D. Llewellyn, L. Whitefield |
15. Nitrogen and Water Management for Optimized Sugar Beet Yield and Sugar ContentSugar beet (SB) production is based on maximizing: root yield, and sucrose content, and sucrose recovery efficiency. Efficient nitrogen (N) and water management are key for successful SB production. Nitrogen deficits in the soil can reduce root and sugar yield. Overapplication of N can reduce sucrose content and increase nitrate impurities which lowers sucrose recovery. Application of N in excess of SB crop need leads to vigorous canopy growth, while compromising root development and sugar pr... O.S. Walsh, S. Shafian, D. Jayawardena |
16. Soil Health Changes Following Transition from an Annual Cropping to Perennial Management-Intensive Grazing AgroecosystemManagement-intensive Grazing (MiG) on irrigated, perennial pastures has steadily increased in the western US due to pressure for reducing public lands grazing, overall declining land available for pasture, and decreasing commodity prices. However, there are still many unknowns regarding MiG and its environmental impact, especially with regards to soil health. Over a two-year period, we studied changes in soil health under a full-scale, 82 ha pivot-irrigated perennial pasture system grazed wit... J. Ippolito, C. Shawver, J. Brummer, J. Ahola, R. Rhoades |
17. Twenty Years of Cotton Nitrogen Management and Cycling Trials in the Southwest: What Have We Learned?Over 20 site-years of nitrogen fertilizer management and cycling trials have been conducted in Lubbock Texas and Maricopa Arizona from 1998 to 2019. Furrow, overhead sprinkler (OSI), subsurface drip irrigation (SDI) were used. Soil profile nitrate (0-36 inches in Texas and 0-72 inches in Arizona) was sampled and tested for in all trials. Nitrogen-15 labeled fertilizer was used for two years in Texas and for two years in Arizona. Canopy reflectance was measured in every... K.F. Bronson |
18. Compost Application in California Tomato Cropping SystemsWith the implementation of California Assembly Bill (AB) 341 the availability of composts such as green waste (GW) and co-composted green waste and food waste (FW) as a soil amendment is increasing. The use of those organic amendments in agricultural production systems has been recommended as an effective strategy to make full use of organic waste and improve soil health. However, little information is available to tomato growers to reassess N inputs from using GW and FW. This study was condu... Q. Yi, W. Horwath, S. Haas, X. Zhu-barker |
19. Static Range Nitrogen Management in Northwest U.S. Sugarbeet ProductionNitrogen (N) management is important in sugarbeet production. This paper presents data to support a shift from a yield-based N management approach to a static range N management approach in the Northwest U.S. Production data and research show that yield-based N management can result in over application of N. Past research has been critical to improving and understanding sugarbeet N nutrition. However continued research is needed so cumulative data can be evaluated to improve management practi... D. Bjorneberg, D. Tarkalson, D. Olsen |
20. Developing a Soil Health Assessment Framework for Specialty Crop Systems and Soils of Washington StateTo ensure productive soils, agricultural sustainability, and food security, it is vital to maintain and improve soil health. However, over the decades, intensive agricultural practices have led to a decline in soil health. While most of these intensive agricultural practices negatively affect soil health, research has shown that it is possible to resuscitate soils with practices such as over cropping, and crop rotation. Much of the research on soil health in the US has been done in agronomic ... K.A. Sarpong, M. Mcilquham, L. Michel, D. Griffin |
21. Effects of Lime and Micronutrient Amendments for Acidic Soils of the Inland Pacific NorthwestThe soil pH of agricultural land in the inland Pacific Northwest has dropped precipitously from native soil levels of near 7.0 pH. Changes that were becoming evident in the 1980’s have reached critical levels, leaving tens of thousands of acres of previous prairie soil at pH under 5.0 and unable to grow an increasing number of aluminum-sensitive crops. Some farmers in the region are beginning to use lime application to neutralize soil acidity. However, pH changes and liming can als... R. Wieme, L. Carpenter-boggs, P. Carter, S. Van vleet |
22. Cover Crop Suitability for High Altitude Specialty Crop Organic Food ProductionThere is a growing interest in certified organic, specialty crop food production. With a larger population demanding organic products and organic products offering a higher premium for the producer, farmers are exploring the transition to organic farming. Organic producers in southeatstern Wyoming face multiple challenges in environments with high elevation, low precipitation, and have a short growing season. These challenges include management of persistent weeds, maintaining biodiversity, a... E. Moore, U. Norton |
23. Sensor-Based Nitrogen for Spring WheatManagement of nitrogen (N) fertilizer during wheat production needs to vary depending on the variety as they have different N requirements. Though many growers prefer planting older varieties that they are already familiar with, increasing the knowledge on N requirements of newly released varieties will help to improve the adoption of these varieties by growers. Therefore, the main goals of this study were to assess grain yield, grain N uptake and N use efficiency (NUE) of new and traditional... D.M. Jaywardena, O.S. Walsh |
24. Improving Corn Nitrogen Management Recommendations in the Northwest U.S.The current nitrogen (N) fertilizer recommendations for corn in the Northwest U.S. were developed from limited research (14 potential site-years) in the 1970’s and 1980’s. New data is needed to improve N fertilizer recommendations. Between 2010 and 2017, 17 N rate studies were conducted. Fifteen site-years were conducted for corn grain and 9 site-years for corn silage. Research was conducted on diverse soil types, tillage systems, irrigation systems, ... D.D. Tarkalson, D.L. Bjorneberg |
25. Dairy Manure and Fertilizer Effects on Microbial Activity of an Idaho SoilDairy manure applications that have occurred in the past can have long-term lingering effects on crop production. Understanding the cause is important for current and future management practices. This study was conducted to assess selected microbial activity among past manure application rates. In a past study (2014-2016) in Kimberly Idaho, historic manure applications have been shown to have significant positive and negative effects on sugar beet production. The manure treatment histor... D.D. Tarkalson, R. Dungan, D. Bjorneberg |
26. Residue Decomposition of Surface and Incorporated Barley, Corn, and Wheat at Varying Fertilizer-N RatesCereal crops are commonly grown in southern Idaho and most parts of the western United States. These cereal crops are routinely harvested for their grain with the remaining plant material (chaff, stems, leaves, etc.) left in the field to decompose prior to planting of following spring crops. Understanding the effects of post-harvest residue management on barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), corn (Zea mays L.), and wheat (Tritcum aestivum L.) residue is important for optimiz... C. Rogers, G. Thurgood, B. Dari, J. Marshall, O.S. Walsh, K. Schroeder, G. Loomis |
27. Soil Health and Ecological Resilience on the PalouseHealthy soil is critical for global food security and other essential ecosystem services but is threatened by processes of soil degradation, with at least 33% of global croplands estimated to be moderately or highly degraded. Current soil health assessments provide insight into soil functional performance but often lack diagnostic criteria that assess management effects on soil function over time. We integrate soil health assessments with ecological resilience theory to better understand mana... A.G. Davis, D.R. Huggins, J.P. Reganold |
28. Vineyard Soil Health: What Soil Properties are Most Important?Washington is the second leading producer of wine grapes (Vitis vinifera) in the US, with over 60,000 acres in vineyards. With such a substantial acreage, it is crucial to know how management practices may affect soil and vine health in wine grape systems. Soil health indicators and threshold values have been extensively studied in commodity crops in the Midwest and the northeastern US, but there is much less information available for specialty crops in the Pacific Northwest. &... M. Mcilquham, D. Griffin-lahue, K. Sarpong, L. Michel |
29. Comparative Analysis of Soil Tests for Soil Health and Nutrient ManagementOptions for soil tests to address soil health and nutrient management objectives have diversified. We compare different soil test methods to evaluate their similarities for providing recommendations. Traditional soil tests, ion exchange membranes and analyses using the Haney Soil Health Nutrient Tool and Soil Health Index were compared for soil sampled from long-term cropping system trials near Ritzville Washington and from the R.J. Cook Agronomy Farm near Pullman WA. Despite strong... D. Huggins, C. Rieser, J. Reganold |
30. Dryland Organic Winter Wheat Improvement by the Inclusion of Composted Cattle Manure and Cover CropsOrganic agriculture in semi-arid environments can face several challenges in order to produce a successful crop. These include nitrogen and phosphorus deficiencies, moisture limitations, and high weed competition. Organic winter wheat (Triticum aestivum, L.)-fallow systems can be amended with composted cattle manure and with green manure from cover crops grown in the fallow phase to help increase wheat yields and quality. Cattle manure can improve soil health with t... C. Helseth, U. Norton |
31. Long-term Soil Profile Acidification: Obvious and Hidden DangersSoil acidification is occurring in the dryland farming region of the Northwest. Historically, soil acidification in the surface foot has been characterized; however, potential acidification of subsoil is unknown. We examined soil acidification for soil profiles (0 to 5 ft) at the R.J. Cook Agronomy Farm (92 ac) for 17 years following conversion from conventional tillage to continuous No-tillage (NT). Surface soil depths (0-12 in) acidified under continuous NT to below 5. Surprisingly, subsoil... D. Huggins, S. Shiwakoti |
32. Is Residue Management an Important Factor in the Soil Health of Perennial Grass Seed Production Systems?Residue management in agricultural systems is a crucial pathway of nutrient and organic matter flow and is predicted to affect soil health indices. In Western Oregon, perennial grasses for seed are a major crop, occupying roughly 150,000 ha in the Willamette Valley. Current estimates are that 80-85% of producers remove straw residue, exporting more than 650,000 US tons of straw annually. The primary objectives of this study were: i) evaluate soil health outcomes under residue retention and re... B. Verhoeven, A. Moore, D. Sullivan, M. Gonzalez-mateu |
33. Effects of Semiarid Wheat Agriculture on Soil Microbial Properties: A ReviewAgricultural management decisions on factors such as tillage, fertilization, and cropping system determine the fate of much of the world’s soils, and ... J. Norton, H. Rodgers, L. Van diepen |
34. Soil Test Interpretation: Saturated Paste, EC, SAR and CECSoils of neutral to alkaline pH of the Western United States often contain elevated levels of soluble salts and / or higher concentrations of sodium. Elevated concentrations of soluble salts limit crop growth and sodium may impact water management. Competent agricultural management of these soils is dependent on laboratory analysis of: soil soluble salts and there composition and the irrigation water soluble salt constituents. Soil analysis based on the satura... R. Miller |
35. Impact of Soil Health Practices in an Irrigated AgroecosystemRegional farming practices in cold semiarid irrigated agroecosystems with short growing seasons are shifting to reduced tillage and overhead irrigation to stay economically viable, but more research is needed on the impact of soil health practices such as crop diversification, reduced tillage, and livestock integration on soil physical and chemical properties in these systems. A multi-year study from 2014-2020 in the Bighorn Basin of Northwest Wyoming used a three-crop rotation (diversificati... T. Vance, V. Crowe, J. Norton |
36. Economics of Alfalfa Fertilization Under Inflated Hay and Fertilizer PricesKnowing critical alfalfa nutrient levels in-season improves recommendations and applications, while at the same time saves producers time, expense and effort since many growers take samples for hay quality. Inflation has doubled hay and fertilizer prices which brings into question how current fertility decisions are made. From 2019-2020 detail information on phosphorus and potassium response was conducted. Two experiments were designed as follows: 1) Phosphorus (P) rate study with diffe... S. Norberg, D. Llewellyn, J.P. Driver, S. Fransen, J. Harrison |
37. Nitrogen Availability from Organic AmendmentsOrganic fertilizers and composts are valuable sources of nutrients. However, their nutrient availability is often not known and can be variable. How much nitrogen (N) becomes plant available depends on environmental factors, including temperature and so moisture, as well as the properties of the decomposing organic material. We investigated the effects of the carbon to N (C:N) ratio of different commercially available organic fertilizers and composts in a study where we mixed the materials wi... D. Geisseler |
38. Determining Lime Requirements for Idaho SoilsFor the past 25 years, northern Idaho soils have significantly shown a decline in soil pH, from pH 6.0 to around a pH of 5.6. Southern Idaho soils are mostly neutral to alkaline, with a pH of around 7.0 to 8.5, however, most agricultural soils pH is declining to pH < 4.5. Soil acidification is becoming a rising issue in soil sustainability, in which approximately 30% of the world surface is covered by acidic soils. Low soil solution pH can be induced by continued irrigation that incre... K.L. Mookodi, J. Spackman, J. Sagers, K. Schroeder |
39. Variable Rate Fertilization: Soil Moisture ImpactsVariable Rate Fertilization (VRF) fertilization is a means of potentially applying nutrients more efficiently. Variable Rate Irrigation (VRI) is increasingly evaluated. However, these are generally studied in isolation, which seems contrary to the principles on which each are founded. Potential benefits of VRF, especially for N, are often confounded or repressed as a result of soil moisture variability due to runoff losses/accumulation and/or total water applied. Similarly, VRI results are im... B.G. Hopkins |
40. Barley Yield and Protein Response to Nitrogen and Sulfur Rates and Application TimingThe introduction of new barley varieties, as well as changes in management practices, necessitate a re-evaluation of nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) nutrient management guidelines. Nitrogen has a significant impact on barley grain quality and yield. Overapplication of N can result in lodging, groundwater pollution, and high protein content, resulting in lower end-use quality of barley, while underapplication of N results in reduced grain quality and yield. Sulfur promotes N utilization in barley ... O. Adeyemi, J. Spackman, J. Sagers, J. Marshall, Z. Hong, R. Findlay, J. Bevan |
41. Spoon-fed Nitrogen and Phosphorus Management for Subsurface Drip Irrigated Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum)Subsurface drip irrigation (SDI) is becoming a popular option for maximizing the water use efficiency of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum), especially in semi-arid environments of the Midsouth and Western United States. Applying fertilizers through SDI provides an opportunity to prescriptively apply nutrients at peak nutrient demand which could minimize loss and increase uptake, but the application timing is poorly understood. The objective of this study was to develop nitrogen (N) an... J.A. Burke, K.L. Lewis |
42. Soil Health in American Sports Fields and Golf CoursesHealthy soils are essential for sustaining the world’s ecosystems and maintaining human lifestyles. The adoption of biological, chemical, and physical analyses to assess soil health is a relatively new concept with a paucity of scientific work assessing how well these tests can predict and influence soil health. Golf and sports turf are arguably the most intensively managed soil systems in the world, including fertilizer and pesticide use. Excess fertilizer and pesticide application can... M. Barnes, B.G. Hopkins |
43. Performance of Public and Private Fertilizer Recommendations for Corn, Alfalfa, and Small GrainsThere are many sources that growers utilize to determine fertilizer needs for crops such as private and public labs, crop advisors, and fertilizer dealers. In many cases, these sources provide recommendations for a specific crop that can vary greatly, and the resulting fertilizer and application rates recommended can lead to large differences in costs for the grower. Evaluating the effectiveness and economics of current fertilizer guidelines and recommendations will help growers to make bette... M. Yost, M. Baker, J. Gale, E. Creech, G. Cardon |
44. Evaluating Zinc Requirements of Corn, Small Grains, and AlfalfaMany growers and crop advisors in the Intermountain west have recently reported Zn deficiencies in major cereal and forage crops. Further, many common fertilizer blends now include Zn. Most Zn fertilizer guidelines indicate that 5-10 lbs of Zn per acre should be applied when critical soil test Zn levels are less than about 0.8 ppm Zn. These guidelines in Utah and many other states in the region were developed decades ago and need to be reassessed. Therefore, we established Zn response and rat... M. Yost, M. Baker, J. Gale, G. Cardon, E. Creech |
45. Using Calcium Hydroxide for Lime Incubation Studies and Moisture Effects on LimingPlant health and productivity are negatively affected by soil acidity. Soil physical properties such as soil texture, soil organic matter, and nutrient content help soils resist changes in their acidity (buffering capacity). Soils have different buffering capacities; agricultural producers need to know how responsive a soil is to lime and how much lime is required to modify a soil to a certain pH (lime requirement). One method to evaluate soil liming requirements and buffering capacity is to ... C. Collins, E. Loera, R. Reid, J. Spackman |
46. Sus-Terra Enhanced Efficiency Phosphorus Fertilizer on Potato Grown in Calcareous SoilPotato (Solanum tuberosum L.) has a relatively high demand for phosphorus (P), especially on calcareous soil where the availability of P in hindered by poor solubility. Sus-Terra is claimed to be an enhanced efficiency fertilizer compared to other P sources. The objective of this trial was to evaluate the differences in uptake efficiency and yield for multiple P sources compared to a no P control applied to Russet Burbank potato. Field trials with six replications in a RCBD were... L.K. Sannar, B.G. Hopkins, T.J. Hopkins |
47. Stacking 4R Nutrient Management: PotatoThe 4Rs of nutrient management are research-based guidelines with the aim to improve the sustainability of major cropping systems and the environment without compromising crop yield and quality. The term “4R” represents fertilizer applied at the Right rate with the Right source, Right timing, and Right placement. The objective of this project is to evaluate the interactions of individual and combined 4R management practices. In 2020, potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) was grow... S.H. Stapley, C.C. Whitaker, N.C. Hansen, R.C. Christensen, R.R. Jensen, M.A. Yost, B.G. Hopkins |
48. Optimizing Nitrogen Fertilizer Rates for Annual Cereal Forage ProductionNitrogen fertilizer provides one of the greatest returns on investment but also one of the highest operating expenses for annual cereal forage production. It is important to know the total nitrogen required by a crop to optimize yield and quality and to minimize nitrogen losses to the environment. It is also possible that annual cereal forage species and cultivars will have varying responses to nitrogen availability. The objective of this study was to determine the optimal nitrogen fertilizer... J. Spackman, R. Findlay, J. Sagers, J. Pandey |
49. Polymer Coated Urea: Microplastics in the Urban LandscapePolymer Coated Urea (PCU) in urban landscapes has recently become a controversial practice as some fear the repercussions of the polymer coatings left behind in soils and the environment to potentially be detrimental to land and water ecosystem health. The use of PCU has been beneficial in effectively supplying nitrogen (N) to plants with less leaching, denitrification, and volatilization losses to the environment. However, the pollution of microplastics may outweigh these benefits. The ... C. Seely , B. Hopkins |
50. A Single Nutrient Source Hydroponic Solution: pH BufferingMES (2-[N-morpholino]ethanesulfonic acid) is a biological buffer that can be used to stabilize pH in a hydroponic system. It can, however, be toxic to plants, including soybeans. Hydroponic systems are efficient for studying plant nutrition. It is often desirable to adjust individual nutrients for unique species’ needs and/or to create multiple nutrient deficiencies within the same study. However, this is challenging to do with traditional solutions as nutrients are ... J.D. Ioannou, B. Hopkins |
51. Biosolids-based Fertilizers as a Nitrogen Source in California Small Grains SystemsSituation/ conditions In response to regulatory and economic pressure, California growers are becoming more familiar with nitrogen budgets. In addition to seeking out ways to improve nitrogen management strategies, growers can possibly benefit by incorporating alternative sources of nitrogen to feed their crops. Liquid injected or pelletized biosolids-based fertilizers from local waste streams and processing facilities are one source that growers are beginning to explore. ... K. Mathesius, D. Geisseler, M. Savidge, M. Lundy, T. Nelson, N. Andersen |
52. The Effects of Calcium Source and Placement on Soil Factors and Wheat Performace FactorsWheat production is a critical component of U.S. Pacific Northwest agriculture, with approximately 80% of the global soft white wheat grain supply originating from this region. Ammonium-based nitrogen fertilizers are widely used on typically alkaline soils in Eastern Oregon dryland production areas by wheat growers. However the nitrification process that biologically converts ammonium to nitrate increases the soil concentration of H+. This process ultimately creates acidic soil conditions, wh... S. Ellickson, A. Moore, R. Zemetra, C. Hagerty |
53. Alfalfa Fertility Survey of Oregon, Washington, and IdahoUnderstanding alfalfa nutrient status in plants and soils allows researchers and growers identify the greatest nutrient needs for this important crop. A survey of PNW alfalfa fields is being conducted to accurately summarize alfalfa nutrient uptake and biomass yield potential in response to soil agronomic properties to address this question. Forty alfalfa fields throughout alfalfa production regions in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho were selected for the 2022 survey. The number of fields colle... C.H. Messman, A. Moore |
54. Impact of Variable-Rate Nitrogen on Potato Yield, Quality, and ProfitNitrogen application in agriculture is a vital process for optimal plant growth and yield outcomes. Factors such as: topography, soil properties, historical yield, and crop stress variably affect nitrogen (N) needs within a field. Applying variable N within a field could improve yields and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE). Optimal N management is a system that involves applying a conservative variable base rate at or shortly after planting followed by in-season assessment and, if needed, variabl... E.A. Flint, M. Yost, B. Hopkins |
55. Irrigation Management and Drought-tolerant Genetics on Nutrient UptakeAlfalfa is exceptional at obtaining nutrients from the soil with its deep tap root. However, with its ability to consume vast amounts of phosphorous and potassium more is used than what is made available each year. This results in the need of nutrient management plans. With the continuing of the drought, nutrient management becomes more difficult. Irrigation management, drought tolerant genetics, and sprinkler technology can play an important role in nutrient management and affect financial o... D. Boren, M. Yost, T. Sullivan |
56. Nutrient Management for Semi-arid Cannabis ProductionThe industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) industry rapidly emerged in Utah in 2019 with nearly 480 new hectares of hemp production. Production declined and stabilized during 2019-2022 due to low returns in a flooded pharmaceutical market. Though small and specialized, the hemp production industry is still viable in Utah and surrounding states. Many questions remain on optimal production practices for this new and potentially high-value crop. Research throughout the United Sta... T. Sullivan, M. Yost, D. Boren, E. Creech, B. Bugbee |
57. Nitrogen Fertilizer Rate and Timing Implications for Malt, Food, and Feed Barley Production in Southern IdahoNitrogen is an essential nutrient required to produce high-yielding barley. Nitrogen strongly impacts barley yield, grain protein, tillering, and lodging potential. Unlike other crops such as corn, available nitrogen must be carefully managed for producers to achieve both optimal yield and grain quality for malt, food, and feed barley. Exessive nitrogen availability increases grain protein concentration that may be unsuitable for malting but may be ideal for feed or food barley. The objective... J. Spackman, O. Walsh, A. Adjesiwor, O. Adeyemi, J. Sagers, R. Findlay, J. Bevan |
58. The Ammonia RainbowAgriculture has been identified as a major contributor to atmospheric carbon dioxide with nitrogen fertilizer production as a key component. Recent scrutiny of nitrogen production processes has identified ammonia production processes to reduce carbon output from traditional Haber-Bosch processes. These different ammonia production processes are often described with color descriptions to designate the processes used and qualitatively identify their carbon footprint, such as “green ... A. Blaylock |
59. Crystal Green® – the Most Efficient Granular Phosphate FertilizerOver 80% of applied conventional phosphate can be lost to soil fixation or the environment and leaves crops hungry for nutrients when they need them the most. Overapplying conventional phosphate fertilizers, produced from a finite resource, to overcome significant inefficiencies does not align well with industry goals of sustainability. Not only are crops missing out on proper plant nutrition of a critical nutrient, these nutrients are lost to the environment and are responsible for harmful a... G. Mooso |
60. Response of Soil N Cycling, Nitrifying Organisms, and Winter Wheat Yield and Quality to Nitrification Inhibitors in High Rainfall Zones of Northern IdahoLeaching of fertilizer nitrogen contributes to environmental pollution and is an economic loss for agricultural producers. Leaching of inorganic nitrogen fertilizers is intensified when applied to areas of high rainfall zones in excess of crop requirements. Reduction of this nitrogen loss may be achieved through the application of nitrification inhibitors at the time of planting to prevent the transformation of ammonia to more leachable nitrate by nitrifying organisms. Much research on nitrif... S. Philpott, H. Tao, K. Schroeder |
61. Helpful or Not?- Biostimulant Use in Corn Silage ProductionThere has been a recent increase in both the availability and marketing of biostimulant products to local producers, particularly to dairymen, in southern Idaho. These products claim to increase yield and nutrient use efficiency while improving soil health on agricultural fields. If these claims are true, the use of these products would ultimately aid in promoting the overall sustainability of Idaho farms. However, there is a lack of objective data to support these claims, leaving producers u... L.R. Schott, S. Hines, J. Packham, G. Loomis, M. De haro marti, C. Willmore |
62. Variable Rate N and P Management for High-value Vegetable Cropping SystemsThe Lower Colorado River Region (LCRR) of Arizona and California and their environs produce more than 90% of the nation’s cool season vegetables during the fall-winter-spring period. Large amounts of N and P fertilizers are currently utilized for maximum yield and quality. Phosphorus fertilizers are applied pre-plant based on a soil test of a composite field sample. Nitrogen is applied by side-dress based on a plant midrib or petiole N analysis, or soil nitrate-N test, from ... C.A. Sanchez, P. Andrade |
63. Floral Hemp Responses to Nitrogen Fertilization in the High DesertThe performance of floral hemp under N fertilization is influenced by environmental conditions, management and cultivar selection. This field study evaluated the effect of no supplemental N and N fertilization at 90 kg ha-1 on three hemp cultivars (Berry Blossom, Red Bordeaux, and Tahoe Cinco) in Northern Nevada. Nitrogen increased plant height, canopy cover, stem diameter and shoot biomass, but other physiological parameters were dependent on cultivar. We evaluated the u... F. Barrios masias, M. Farnisa, J. Solomon, G. Miller |
64. Optimizing Fertigation for High Value CropsIn irrigated farming systems, soluble and mobile fertilizers, such as sources of nitrogen, are often applied to crops through fertigation. Fertigation presents both opportunities and challenges. Potential opportunities include better synchronization of nutrient availability with crop demand through the growing season and potential energy savings. Challenges include the need for additional investment on infrastructure for nutrient injection into the irrigation conveyance and distribution syste... C.A. Sanchez, D. Zerihun |
65. ManureDB: Creating a Nationwide Manure Test DatabaseManure nutrients serve an important role in crop production, however compared with commercial fertilizers there is a lack of standardized information. When exact manure values are not known, manure book values have been referenced. Recent data from midwestern United States (US) labs indicates manure nutrient levels have changed from book values published by Midwest Plan Service (2004) and American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (2005). Manure laboratory analysis has improved... N.L. Bohl bormann, M.L. Wilson, E.L. Cortus, K. Janni, K. Silverstein, L. Gunderson |
66. CropManage Decision Support Tool for Improving Irrigation and Nutrient Efficiency of Cool Season Vegetables in California: a Decade of Field Demonstrations and OutreachVegetable growers on the central coast of California are under regulatory pressure to reduce nitrate loading to ground and surface water supplies. California is also implementing the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) which may limit agricultural pumping in regions such as the central coast where the aquifer has been over-extracted for irrigation of crops. Growers could potentially use less N fertilizer, address water quality concerns, and conserve water by improving wa... M. Cahn, R. Smith, L. Johnson, F. Melton |
67. How Variable is Variable for Production Fields in Southern Idaho?Idaho ranks in the top 10 in the US for dairy, potato, barley, hay, sugar beet, corn silage, and dry bean production. The highest producing areas in the state for these commodities are in Southern Idaho. Agricultural producers in this region, just like many other regions, are tasked with managing irrigation water and soil fertility on large fields with spatial heterogeneity in a way that results in homogeneous crop production. ... L. Schott, C. Robison, E. Brooks, D. Bjorneberg, K. Nouwakpo |
68. Flushed Liquid Dairy Manure Solid Particle and Nutrient DistributionsLarge dairies often use liquid manure handling systems because of their ease of mechanization and low labor requirements. Some of Idaho Magic Valley dairies use flushing systems that result in large amounts of liquid dairy manure that are applied via irrigation systems to adjacent cropland during the growing season. Solids and nutrients found in liquid dairy manure pose challenges to manure handling processes and cause environmental concerns. Separating solids and nutrients from liquid dairy ... L. Chen, K. Kruger |
69. Relationship Between Nitrogen Mineralization and Soil TextureSoil texture can affect soil temperature, soil moisture, the protection of organic material against microbial degradation, and other soil properties. All these factors potentially influence net nitrogen (N) mineralization. I will discuss results from a 10-week laboratory incubation of undisturbed soil cores from 47 sites in California, and a meta-regression analysis of 461 datasets from 20 studies. ... D. Geisseler |
70. What You Need to Know About the National Fertilizer Recommendation Team Called FRSTThe Fertilizer Recommendation Support Tool (FRST) team is a national effort to improve coordination of soil test recommendations in the United States. There are over 125 partners involved in FRST with representation of all four regional soil testing committees including WERA-103. The team has developed a national tool for P and K soil test calibrations (identifying critical soil test values for response to fertilizer), and are working on developing P and K calibration, tools for S calibration... M. Yost, N. Slaton, J. Spargo, D. Kaiser, G. Buol, L. Gatiboni |
71. Evaluation of Soil Sulfur Tests for MontanaThere are no sulfur (S) fertilizer rate guidelines in Montana due to inconsistent yield responses, high S soil levels in many regions, a minimal number of S fertility trials in the state, and the lack of Montana and regional data that identify the best soil S tests to use. A study was initiated in 2023 to fill this research void. Three crops (spring canola, pea, and wheat) were grown at three sites, and fertilized with 0, 7.5, 15, and 30 lb S/ac using two S sources (potassium sulfate, gypsum)... C. Jones, P. Miller, P. Carr, S. Koeshall, S. Fordyce, J. Souza, J. Vetch |
72. Soil Sulfur Forms, Cycling, Management in Prairie SoilsSulfur exists in surface soils of the prairies mainly in the organic form, while subsoils may contain appreciable quantities of sulfate salts. Mineralization is a major input to the the plant available sulfate pool, with about 1 to 3% of organic sulfur mineralized over a growing season. About one half of the sulfur taken up by annual crops is present and removed in the seed. Declining inputs of S from the atmosphere and greater crop removal have increased the incidence ... J. Schoenau |
73. Management Techniques to Optimize Soil pH in Organic Highbush BlueberryA 3-year study was established in eastern Oregon, USA, in a new organic planting of ‘Duke’ northern highbush blueberry (NHB) to evaluate soil acidification methods. Six techniques of applying elemental sulfur (S) prills, with or without additional acidification of irrigation water were tested. Treatments consisted of: 1) a grower standard of soil incorporated S prills at 1700 kg·ha-1 applied 8 months pre-plant; 2) 8-weeks of fertigation totaling 150 kg&middo... S. Lukas, S. Singh |
74. Non-dormant Alfalfa and Small Grain Rotations- Tillage and Fertility EffectsTo study the use of non-dormant and high nitrogen fixing alfalfa cultivars as a possible source of nitrogen for spring and fall-seeded wheat and barley grown under tilled and no-tilled conditions. Hi-Nitro, a non-dormant, high-nitrogen fixing alfalfa variety, and RoundUp Ready Stratica, a traditional dormant alfalfa cultivars were clear seeded in Aberdeen in 2023 and 2024. Forage was harvested 4 times. Fall or spring tillage was done approximately 3-14 days before planting fall or s... R. Findlay, J. Spackman, J. Hatch, T. Jacobsen, J. Gibbons, J. Sagers, D. Callister |
75. Precision Fertilizer Management Enabled by Printed Sensors for Direct Soil Nitrate MonitoringModern farming relies on intensive fertilizer applications to ensure the plant production. However, a key challenge in fertilizer management, particularly nitrogen, is achieving a balance between maximizing crop yields and pursuing environmental stewardship. Uniform fertilizer applications often result in inefficiencies. Some areas receive insufficient fertilizer, resulting in reduced crop yields and caused financial losses. In contrast, other areas receive excessive amounts, leading to surpl... K. Chen, J. Andrews |
76. Malt Barley Yield and Quality Response to Nitrogen and Sulfur FertilityNitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) and are critical nutrients for producing high-quality malt barley but can be difficult to manage in semi-arid production systems where rainfall and, periodically, irrigation is variable. High spring precipitation or excessive irrigation events can favor N and S leaching reducing yield and grain quality. However, N fertilizer additives such as urease inhibitors, nitrification inhibitors, and controlled-release products may improve N availability. Irrigated... J. Spackman, J. Spackman, J. Hatch, J. Bevan |
77. Lime Incubation for Southern Idaho SoilsSoil acidity is a growing concern for agricultural productivity in Idaho, particularly in the eastern and northern regions where soils are trending acidic. Soil acidity below a pH 5.5 adversely affects the root development and nutrient uptake of crops like alfalfa, barley, and wheat. This study aims to determine the lime requirements for acidic soils in Idaho to optimize crop growth, specifically targeting pH levels of 5.5, 6.0, 6.5, and 7.0. Soil samples were collected from various grower fi... K. Young, J. Spackman, T. Jacobsen, J. Sagers, J. Hatch, R. Ritchie, J. Williams, K. Schroeder, A. Adjesiwor |
78. Dairy Manure Applications to Potatoes: Soil Property, Plant Nutrient, and Tuber Quality ResponseDairy manure applications have become a common practice in Idaho potato production, however the impacts on soil and plant agronomic properties are not well understood. Our objectives were to determine (1) how repeated dairy manure applications impact soil properties and plant nutrient uptake, and (2) how these changes influence plant nutrient interactions, tuber yield, and quality. Stockpiled dairy manure was fall-applied over a 6-year period to two adjacent potato product... A. Moore, A.B. Leytem |
79. Soil Test Method Precision, Correlations, and Trends: SSSA-NAPT Historical DataThe Soil Science Society of America’s (SSSA) North American Proficiency Testing (NAPT) operates as a not-for-profit service laboratory resource since 1998 to assist/evaluate agricultural and environmental testing laboratories with quality assurance and quality control. Soil (n5 samples each quarter), plant (n3), and/or water (n3) samples collected nationwide are submitted quarterly to ~150 participating laboratories who choose which method(s) to use for which analytes they are inte... B. Hopkins, S.V. Nelson, G. Cardon, J. Lawley, T.J. Hopkins |
80. Quality of Alfalfa Hay As Influenced by Phosphorus and Potassium FertilizationIn two field experiments, research was conducted to determine impacts of nutrient applications on alfalfa hay quality and nutrient value at Irrigated Research and Extension Center near Prosser, WA. The phosphorus (P) study P soil tests levels were 6.7 and 5.7 ppm at the beginning of 2019 and 2020, respectively (Olsen P test) in 2019 and 2020. The potassium (K) study was conducted on a soil test level of 85 and 78 ppm K in 2019 and 2020, respectively. Applying phosphorus increased protein, NDF... S. Norberg, D. Llewellyn, J.P. Driver, S. Fransen |
81. Predicting Nitrogen Mineralization from Dairy Manure in Semiarid Cropping SystemsTools are needed to estimate N mineralization from application of dairy manures in semiarid irrigated soils. We found that N mineralization was affected by manure application rate, timing and broadleaft residue N. Average N mineralization was 27 and 18% of the N applied the 1st and 2nd year following application, respectively. The best predictors of N mineralization were soil organic matter, soil EC, manure N and broadleaf N residue. ... A.B. Leytem |
82. Micronutrient Management to Optimize Yellow, Brown and Oriental Mustard Production in Southern IdahoOilseed crops hold a significant position in global agriculture, serving as vital sources of essential oils and as raw materials for numerous industries. Among these, yellow, brown, and oriental mustard are prominent for their multifaceted uses, particularly in the culinary and industrial sectors. However, these mustard varieties face challenges in achieving their maximum yield potential, largely due to suboptimal nutrient management practices. Fertilizer programs, though essential for produc... H. Ali, J. Spackman, J. Pandey |
83. Managing Soil AcidificationThe presentation will explore the relationship between nitrogen fertilizers, soil acidity, and nutrient stratification in agricultural systems. We will discuss how N fertilizers contribute to soil acidification over time. The role of soil pH in nutrient availability and plant health will be highlighted. The discussion will focus on alternatives to mitigate soil acidification, such as lime application, balanced fertilization, and improved management practices, ensuring long... J. Souza |
84. N Fertilizer, Does It Burn Up Organic Matter?Does synthetic N fertilizer deplete soil organic carbon, thereby exacerbating agricultural contributions to climate change? Or does synthetic N fertilizer instead increase soil organic carbon by boosting primary productivity and soil carbon inputs? The bulk of the evidence suggests that soil organic carbon increases with synthetic N fertilizer due to increased carbon inputs and decreased microbial mineralization of older soil organic carbon. ... G. Lahue |
85. Fava Bean Diversity and its Potential in the Western United StatesFava bean (Vicia faba), known for its biological nitrogen fixation, and grain and fresh pod production, is cultivated worldwide. In the western United States, fava bean, Bell bean, is mainly grown in cover crop mixtures to enhance soil nitrogen. While land size and lack of planting and harvesting equipment limit fava bean as grain crop, it is grown in small areas of western US for fresh pod as a vegetable crop. This presentation summarizes the findings of multi-year research on genetic divers... K. Brasier, H. Zakeri |
86. Application Timing, Soil Type, and Source Effects on Elemental S AvailabilityThe reduction in acid rain due to increased regulation of manufacturers in the U.S. has led to S deficiencies in agricultural crops. In response, elemental sulfur (S) fertilizer products are becoming more widely available to growers, but have not been evaluated for their S availability and S oxidation characteristics. The objective of our research was to evaluate the S availability and S oxidation rates of five elemental S fertilizer products. The evaluation was done using two Oregon soil typ... A. Cox, A. Moore |
87. Soil Property Effect on Nitrogen Mineralization of Dairy Manure in the Pacific NorthwestGrowers often use total nitrogen (N) concentration of dairy to manure to estimate plant available N for crop production. This estimate, however, ignores the role that soil properties may have on N mineralization (Nmin) rates. This study aims to determine how soil physiochemical properties impact Nmin rates of dairy manure and composted dairy manure by aerobic incubation. Sixteen soils, sampled from 0-12 inch depths (0-30.5 cm) were collected from dairy production regions in Oregon, Washington... R. Auld, A. Moore, J. Moore, Y. Zhang, C. Rogers |
88. Greenhouse Lime and Gypsum Placement Strategies for Addressing Soil Acidity in No-tillDryland soft white winter wheat growers in the inner Pacific Northwest states including Washington, Oregon, and Idaho practice no-till to preserve the health and structure of their soil. Beginning in the 1960's, due to the usage and ammonium fertilizers and the nitrification of these fertilizers, the natively alkaline soils in this region have become increasingly acidic resulting is issues like low soil pH, mineral nutrient deficiencies, and aluminum toxicity. Gen... A. Moore, S. Ellickson |
89. Liming for Improved Nutrient Utilization and Weed Management in WheatSoil acidification is an increasing concern for agricultural productivity in Eastern Idaho, where low soil pH threatens the yield and quality of key crops such as barley and spring wheat. Acidification occurs from the long-term application of ammonium-based fertilizers and other management practices, leading to aluminum toxicity and nutrient imbalances that inhibit root development and reduce yields. Farmers in the region are exploring strategies to address this challenge, including the use o... T. Jacobsen, J. Spackman, A. Adjesiwor, J. Sagers, K. Schroeder, J. Bevan, K. Mookodi, J. Gibbons |
90. Converting Between Mehlich-3P and Olsen-P Soil Tests: What Can Go Wrong?Varying methodologies for extracting plant-available phosphorus (P) have been proposed since the initiation of soil test development in the early 1900s. Two tests that were developed and are still used widely in both the United States and Europe are the Olsen and Mehlich-3 test. Olsen P is predominately used in high-pH soils and Mehlich-3 is more common in neutral to acidic soils due to the nature of the extracting solutions. Many Western US soils are high pH and, thus, have used Olsen ... C. Rogers, Z. Simpson, J. Mott, P. Kleinman |
91. Patterns and Implications of Increasing Sulfur Fertilizer Use at National-to-Global ScalesSulfur (S) is a key component of life and an element that has been dramatically changed by industrial activities, including mining and fossil fuel combustion. Today, as atmospheric S deposition declines in response to air quality regulation in the U.S. and Europe, there has been an increase in S fertilizer applications reported in many large, regional crop systems. In addition, intensification of agriculture has driven increased S inputs for other uses: as a pesticide, regulator of soil pH, a... E. Hinckley |
92. Ammonia Volatilization from Surface-applied Dairy Manure Anaerobic DigestateAnaerobic digesters are becoming increasingly common in the dairy industry as a more environmentally sustainable method to manage manure. However, the impact of the anaerobic digestion process on manure ammonium (NH4-N) composition and ammonia (NH3) volatilization potential are not well understood. The objectives of this study were to compare NH4-N concentrations and cumulative loss of NH3 by volatilization between influent, or raw manure, and ... C. Butler, A. Moore, S.B. Kulesza |
93. Effectiveness of Kitchen Compost in Germinating Tomato and LettuceFood waste in developed countries is a large input to landfills. Ideally, it is composted and added to soil on-site to reduce environmental impacts. A “kitchen composter” (ReencleTM) effectively decomposes waste within 24 hours (>90% reduction in mass), followed by formation of stable compost within a few weeks after curing outside the composter. Our preliminary research demonstrates that the compost has excellent nutrient composition. However, it was not adequately ... B. Hopkins, R. Kerr, S.V. Nelson |
94. Quinoa Mineral Nutrient Deficiency Symptoms and ConcentrationsMajor crop nutrient symptoms are well documented. In contrast, there is often minimal or no similar information for minor crops, including quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.). This knowledge gap can be efficiently filled by using hydroponic systems. However, creating multiple nutrient deficiencies with plants in the same study is challenging because nutrients are often added as dual nutrient salts. For example, if potassium sulfate is the potassium (K) source, varying K concentra... B. Hopkins, G. Bell, S.V. Nelson, R.E. Sannar |
95. Ammonia Recovery from Anaerobically Digested Dairy Wastewater Facilitated by In-situ Acid and Base Generation in a Transmembrane Electro-chemisorption SystemNitrogen (N) is essential for living organisms and is a critical element in agricultural production. Ammonia (NH₃), a vital component in the nitrogen cycle, can be produced naturally by nitrogen-fixing bacteria or artificially through the energy-intensive Haber-Bosch process. Anaerobically digested dairy wastewater (ADDW) could contain high concentrations of ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) due to the conversion of organic N into NH3-N during the anaerobic digestion process. A... A.K. Das, L. Chen |
96. Hydrothermal Carbonization of Dairy Manure for Phosphorus Recovery and Runoff Risk Mitigation: Effect of Temperature and CaO AdditionDairy manure contains a significant amount of phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N), which are essential for soil fertility and crop productivity, but are currently underutilized due to ammonia emissions, P runoff and leaching, and manure N to P ratios do not match crop nutrient needs. Meanwhile, there is a growing concern about P depletion as a non-renewable resource. To address both the excessive use of synthetic P fertilizers and inefficiently direct use of dairy manure, a logical strategy is to... M. Islam, B. He, L. Chen |
97. 4R Nitrogen Management Effects on Silage Corn ProductionThe 4R nutrient stewardship framework aims to improve fertilizer management through four core principles: right source, rate, time, and place. Nitrogen is one of the most important and costly inputs for silage corn production. Excessive or inefficient N applications rapidly decrease profits for growers and can cause environmental concerns. Nitrogen loss can occur through leaching, runoff, and denitrification. Most previous studies evaluating N management for silage corn have only examined one... B. Okorie, M. Yost, K. Deep, N. Howard |
98. Nitrogen Removal Potential of Triticale in Cropping Systems Receiving Dairy Effluent ApplicationsField applications of lagoon effluent are common for dairy production systems in Northeastern Oregon. However, N in the effluent is susceptible to nitrate leaching losses which can cause water quality issues, especially from winter effluent applications when crop N uptake is slower. Triticale, which is derived from a cross between rye and wheat, is a common forage crop in this region that is well suited to take up excess nutrients like N. The objective of the project is to evaluate the in-sea... A. Jenkins |
99. Efficacy of FUSN as an N Source for Irrigated Vegetable CropsThe Department of Homeland Security Ammonium Nitrate Security Program regulates the distribution and sale of granular ammonium nitrate fertilizer (AN). Due to the bureaucracy of these regulations, the sale of dry AN has been discontinued in many areas. While liquid AN20 remains available, there is a preference for granular fertilizer for many agricultural applications. FUSN (20-0-0-14S) is a Honeywell and JR Simplot proprietary technology whereby ammonium nitrate is fused wi... C. Sanchez |
100. Response of Desert Vegetable Crops to “40 Rock”- a P and Zn Fertilizer SourceCrops produced on calcareous soils in low desert region of the southwestern United States show a large response to P fertilizer. The most commonly used P source has been mono-ammonium phosphate (MAP or 11-52-0). These same soils are also reported to be marginal with respect to Zn availability but responses to Zn fertilization had been infrequent in the past. More recently, we have observed crop responses to Zn fertilization with increasing frequency and we have revised Zn fe... C. Sanchez |
101. Updated Fertilizer Guidelines for Vegetable Crops in ArizonaThe vegetable production industry in the lower Colorado River region of Arizona is valued at over 19 billion dollars. Comprehensive fertilizer guidelines for vegetable crops historically produced in Arizona had not been updated in decades. Furthermore, we had no data to support guidelines for newer vegetable crops introduced into the region during the past two decades. The updated guidelines consolidate decades of research, incorporating historical databases, augmented with releva... C. Sanchez |
102. Polymer Coated Urea: Microplastics in Agricultural LandscapesPolymer Coated Urea (PCU) is effective in supplying nitrogen (N) to plants with reduced leaching, denitrification, and volatilization losses to the environment. However, microplastics pollution is a concern due to residual amounts in soil and possible transport to surface water. The purpose of this irrigated sweet corn (Zea mays convar.) field study at Provo, UT was to determine the potential for off-site transport of plastic coatings in agricultural landscapes. Treatments included a... C. Seely , J.J. Lemonte, B. Hopkins |
103. Sugar Beet Lime Characteristics and Effects on High pH Soils and Crops in the Western U.S.Each year in Idaho and Oregon, 351,000 Mg of precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) (a byproduct of sucrose extraction from sugarbeet) is produced and stockpiled at sugarbeet processing factories. Currently there are limited disposal strategies for the PCC and these stockpiles continue to grow over time. The simplest solution would be to apply the PCC directly to agricultural fields each year, however the effects of PCC on high pH soils and crop rotations in the growing area are not well unders... D. Olsen, D. Bjorneberg, D. Tarkalson |
104. Effect of 4R Nitrogen Management on Residual Soil Nitrate and Soil HealthNitrogen is one of the most important and expensive inputs for forage, grain, vegetable, and fruit crops. Excessive fertilizer reduces profit for farmers and can cause environmental harm. Nitrate leaching is the main factor contributing to rising nitrate levels in groundwater, leading to water quality degradation. The 4R nutrient stewardship framework aims to optimize fertilizer management. The Right rate matches the amount of fertilizer to the crop needs, the Right source matches fertilizer ... K. Deep, M. Yost, J. Williams, B. Hopkins, G. Cardon, B. Black |
105. Insights from Soil Health Assessments Across a Diverse Soils and Land Uses in the TropicsLand stewards can utilize soil health metrics to evaluate changes in their management practices. However, while indicators of soil health reflect specific ecosystem functions, the relationship of soil health measurements to anthropogenic disturbances, productivity, and other soil properties is poorly understood. The Hawaiʻi Soil Health database serves as a comprehensive collection of soil data from over 1,700 samples representing 11 of the 12 recognized soil orders across various land uses i... T. Maaz |
106. Banana Fiber as a Soil Amendment in Potato and CornBanana (Musa spp. L.) pseudostem fiber has unique properties that may prove helpful in plant and soil management, including a high water holding capacity. Increased capacity could be useful in water conservation efforts in areas experiencing long-term drought. In the agricultural space, banana fiber could be used to maintain soil moisture, thus lowering the frequency and/or amount of irrigation. The objectives of irrigated field studies in Provo, UT, USA were to measure the impact of... B. Hopkins, M.J. Foster, S.V. Nelson |
107. Recovered Carbon Black from Pyrolyzed Tires as a Zinc Fertilizer for Field Corn in Calcareous SoilsWaste tires exist in immense quantities, representing a substantial pollution source containing a variety of environmentally concerning components, including the heavy metal zinc (Zn) added as Zn oxide (ZnO) during tire manufacture. Pyrolysis under high vacuum is a potential disposal solution. One of the by-products of this process is recovered Carbon Black (CB) that is enriched in Zn, an essential plant nutrient. Our objective was to determine if recovered CB from can serve as a fertilizer Z... R.E. Sannar, E. Bremer, K. Greer, B. Hopkins |
108. Plant Test Method Precision, Correlations, and Trends: SSSA-NAPT Historical DataThe Soil Science Society of America’s (SSSA) North American Proficiency Testing (NAPT) operates as a not-for-profit service laboratory resource since 1998 to assist/evaluate agricultural and environmental testing laboratories with quality assurance and quality control. Soil (n = 5 samples each quarter), plant (n = 3), and/or water (n = 3) samples collected nationwide are submitted quarterly to ~150 participating laboratories who choose which method(s) to use for which analytes they... S.V. Nelson, J. Lawley, T.J. Hopkins, G. Cardon, B. Hopkins |
109. On-Farm Variable-Rate Nitrogen Management in PotatoApplying variable nitrogen (N) has often improved yields, quality, and/or N use efficiency (NUE) of several crops. The objective of this study was to evaluate how pre-emergence variable rate N (VRN) zones vs. uniform N management impacts potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) yield, quality, and NUE. Low, average, and high N zones were created and evaluated for 10 site-years at fields near Grace, Idaho, USA over two years with rates based upon yield goals, soil, water, and previous crop ... E. Flint, M. Yost, B. Hopkins |
110. What is a Plant Nutrient? Changing Definitions to Advance Science and Innovation in Plant NutritionWe propose a new, more comprehensive definition of mineral plant nutrients that extends beyond the current narrow criteria. This expanded definition encompasses not only essential elements but also those that are beneficial for plant growth, development, or quality attributes across various species and environments. The proposed definition recognizes elements with clear metabolic functions and those that enhance plant productivity, crop quality, resource use efficiency, stress tolerance, or p... P.H. Brown |
111. Spectral Response of Pulse Crops to Soil Acidity for Soil pH MappingIn this work, we explore the observable differences in the spectral reflectance of pulse crops in acidified and non-acidified soil regions of multiple Montana fields. Satellite observations are collected throughout the growing season using Landsat 8 & 9 and Sentinel 2 A & B. The variations of crop reflectance in acidified (pH < 5) and non-acidified (pH 6.0 to 7.0) are analyzed and used to support why both multi-temporal regression and machine learning models are... P. Nugent, S. Feleghari |
112. Speculation on an Equation for Stratification: How Reliably Can We Estimate Soil Test Values at Different Depths?The depth to which soil is sampled in a field impacts measured soil test values. However, across the West, depth of soil sampling can vary by state, region and cropping system. What if we're interested in comparing crop responses to fertilizer application across a large scale? How do we reconcile trials that are sampled at different soil depths? This study was part of the Fertilizer Recommendation Support Tool (FRST) project, with the goal to develop equations that allowed comparison... S. Culman |
113. A Classification System for Assessing Applied N Performance in Dryland Wheat Crops of the Inland PNWWheat crops in the inland Pacific Northwest demand nitrogen (N) fertilizers at high levels to achieve yield and grain protein objectives. Inefficiencies in N use can accelerate soil acidification, contribute to N2O emissions and result in unnecessary input costs. More precise applications, using wheat performance maps at the field-scale, could lead to increased N use efficiency but requires a multidimensional assessment of performance including grain protein, yield, and N effic... D. Huggins, J. Casanova, C. Phillips |
114. Collaborative Water Quality Monitoring in AgricultureThis presentation will focus on the importance of protecting water quality, the active role our ag partners play. Additionally, water quality monitoring technologies and methodologies including our use of not only industry tech, but also instruments developed by the Agricultural Water Quality Program at CSU. The importance of outreach and getting knowledge back into the hands of producers will be highlighted. ... E. Wardle |