Download the Conference Proceedings
Proceedings
Authors
| Filter results71 paper(s) found. |
|---|
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 health... P. Miller, C. Jones, C. Zabinski, K. D'agati, M. Housman, S. Tallman |
2. 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 production.... O.S. Walsh, S. Shafian, D. Jayawardena |
3. Does Post-harvest Nitrogen Application Affect Blueberry Yield or Cold Hardiness?In central Washington, nitrogen (N) management in blueberries typically consists of all N being applied prior to harvest. For early cultivars, such as Duke, this means all fertilizer is applied before the end of June, leaving a long period of growth with no supplemental N. To evaluate the potential for splitting N fertilizer applications into pre- and post-harvest timings, we conducted an experiment in a randomized complete block design with four replicates on a commercial ‘Duke’... J.R. Davenport, G.A. Hoheisel, L.W. Devetter |
4. 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 practices.... D. Bjorneberg, D. Tarkalson, D. Olsen |
5. 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 systems... K.A. Sarpong, M. Mcilquham, L. Michel, D. Griffin |
6. 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 also... R. Wieme, L. Carpenter-boggs, P. Carter, S. Van vleet |
7. Reuse and Reclamation of PhosphogypsumPhosphogypsum (PG) is a byproduct of phosphate fertilizer production. It is produced when phosphate rock is treated with sulphuric acid during the manufacture of phosphoric acid, and is composed primarily of gypsum (CaSO4.2H2O). It is estimated that over 3 billion tonnes of PG have been accumulated in stacks worldwide and over 150 million tonnes are produced annually. In North America, PG is stockpiled in stacks that can cover hundreds... C. Nichol |
8. 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, and... D.D. Tarkalson, D.L. Bjorneberg |
9. Sugar Beet Lime Effects on High pH Soils and Crops in Northwest U.S.A viable solution to dispose of sugar beet precipitation calcium carbonate (PCC) is needed due to the unsustainable issues associated with storage. Sugar beet PCC is a lime material produced as a waste product from extracting sugar from sugar beet. The three main sugar beet processing factories in the Amalgamated Sugar Company growing area in Idaho and Oregon have stockpiled approximately 11.3 million Mg of PCC. Each year these three factories produce a total of 350,000 Mg annually. A... D.D. Tarkalson |
10. 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 history... D.D. Tarkalson, R. Dungan, D. Bjorneberg |
11. 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 management... A.G. Davis, D.R. Huggins, J.P. Reganold |
12. 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. Soil... M. Mcilquham, D. Griffin-lahue, K. Sarpong, L. Michel |
13. 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 soil... J. Norton, H. Rodgers, L. Van diepen |
14. 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 (diversification... T. Vance, V. Crowe, J. Norton |
15. Adopting Quinoa in Eastern Idaho – An Investigation of Agronomic PracticesQuinoa production area has been increasing rapidly in eastern Idaho in recent years. However, best management practices for quinoa production are yet to be determined in this area. Field experiments were thus conducted at two locations (e.g., Aberdeen and Tetonia) in eastern Idaho from 2016 to 2018 to evaluated agronomic practices for quinoa production. More successful quinoa production was demonstrated in Tetonia, where air temperature is mostly below 30oC during the summer. In contrast,... X. Liang, R. Yang |
16. Approaches to Nutrient RecommendationsScientific based crop nitrogen (N) fertilizer recommendations are vital to guide N management within the agricultural sector. Accurate recommendations can maximize producer economic returns and minimize losses to the environment. Obtaining accurate recommendations is a dynamic process that requires constant research to update recommendations (within current scientific knowledge) and to better understand soil N cycle processes (develop new scientific knowledge) that can further improve... D. Tarkalson |
17. Water and Nitrogen Interactions in Kentucky BluegrassPressure is increasing in arid regions to conserve water, especially during drought. Turfgrass is the irrigated crop of greatest acreage in the United States and is coming under scrutiny in urban ecosystems. The purpose of this study was evaluating water use by Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) under various irrigation and nitrogen (N) regimes. A study was conducted in an established stand of Kentucky bluegrass in Provo, UT, USA. The turfgrass was split equally into 27 plots (11... A. Hopkins, C. Campbell, B. Hopkins, N. Hansen |
18. Nitrogen Management in Small Grains After AlfalfaSmall grains are commonly grown following alfalfa in Utah and the Intermountain West, especially during drought years as small grains require less irrigation than corn. Several studies across the country have shown that corn following alfalfa rarely needs N fertilizer, yet relatively few have evaluated the N needs of small grains. Furthermore, research on the N needs of small grains grown as forage vs. grain are even more sparse. The objectives of this research are to quantify the... C. Pound, M. Yost, E. Creech, G. Cardon, K. Russell, D. Despain, J. Gale, K. Heaton, B. Kitchen, M. Pace, S. Price, C. Reid, M. Palmer, M. Nelson |
19. Phosphorus Fertilizer and Hydrogel for Rangeland SeedingThe US Air Force uses live munitions at Hill Air Force Base, a desert testing range west of Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. Resultant fire has disturbed rangeland vegetation. Revegetation of the area is impeded by low average precipitation rates of approximately 0.025 m per year, and opportunistic invasive species. Previous studies indicated hydrogel increases soil water content and the longevity of bottlebrush squirrel tail seedlings. In this glasshouse study, the effects... M. Valencia, S. Nelson, B. Hopkins |
20. Interagency Cooperation to Improve Nitrogen Management for Water Quality ProtectionAgriculture and water are inseparable in a semiarid region such as Colorado. Adequate clean water supplies for drinking, agriculture, industry, and recreation are critical for the lifestyle Coloradans enjoy. The Agricultural Chemicals and Groundwater Protection Program (ACGPP) was created by the Colorado legislature in 1990. The purpose of this unique program is to reduce the potential impairment of groundwater by agricultural chemicals have on groundwater and the environment by preventing groundwater... T. Bauder, E. Wardle, R. Wawrzynski, K. Mauch |
21. Crop Genetic Variability for Nutrient Use Efficiency: Biological Foundation, and Case of Spring WheatRecent advances in plant molecular biology have elucidated the mechanisms by which plant species adapt to low-nitrogen and low-phosphorus environments. This has paved the way to new perspectives and strategies for breeding and genetic engineering: the design of low-nitrogen and low-phosphorus cultivars in order to optimize nutrients use efficiency and enhance economic and environmental sustainability. In this paper, we review the enzymatic activity of root hair-embedded transmembrane proteins,... R. Nkoa ondoua, M. Etesami |
22. Canola Roots of Water and Nitrogen Use Efficiency: New Lessons for PNW Wheat GrowersThe semi-arid inland Pacific Northwest (iPNW) has primarily produced wheat for 125 years due to favorable climate, soils, economics and policy drivers. Shifting drivers over the past decade related to energy, climate change, regional and global markets have created new opportunities for the integration of canola into iPNW wheat-dominated rotations. Traditional wheat grower mindsets required an agronomic reboot, forged by an understanding of canola vs. wheat physio morphology, an explosion of variety... W. Pan, T. Maaz, I. Madsen, W. Hammac, M. Reese |
23. Fine Tuning Nitrogen Management Soil TestsRecent changes in environmental regulations have brought a renewed focus on residual soil nitrogen. Years ago when much of the N was broadcast or injected into cultivated fields there were relatively simple techniques to make reasonable estimates. In more recent times drip irrigation, fertilization, and non-till have complicated the techniques required to measure residual N. This is especially the case in deep rooted crops. This presentation will discuss using quantitative soil tests... K. Backman |
24. Nebraska Nitrogen Management Present and FutureUniversity of Nebraska faculty have been refining their N rate recommendation procedure since the 1970s. At that time, they introduced a procedure for predicting soil nitrate-N availability and effect on subsequent corn N needs. In the 1990’s this procedure was refined based on 81 state wide N rate experiments. In 2003-2006 it was re-confirmed with 32 state wide irrigated corn trials. The current algorithm is the following: N need (lb/ac) = [35 + (1.2 x EY) - (8 x NO3- N ppm) - (0.14 x EY... C. Shapiro, R. Ferguson, C. Wortmann, T. Shaver, B. Krienke, G. Hergert, B. Maharjan |
25. Improving Nitrogen Use Efficiency of Cool Season Vegetable Production Systems with Broccoli RotationsNitrate leaching in leafy vegetable production in the Salinas Valley, CA is a continuing problem. Increased levels of nitrate in groundwater resources affects the ability of municipalities to access drinking water that meet federal water quality standards. Regulations by the Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board are now requiring growers to improve nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) in production fields. In prior studies we found that above ground biomass nitrogen (N) at crop maturity... R. Smith, M. Cahn, T. Hartz |
26. Developing a Soil Test Kit for Extension ProgrammingSoil and horticulture Extension programs are enhanced by hands-on and interactive activities. Readily available and inexpensive soil test kits can be useful in Extension programming in the classroom and the field. With the addition of a few extra supplies and tools, a complete kit can be created for Extension educators to use in horticulture and soil management programming. Five soil test kits from different manufactures were evaluated for both ease of use and accuracy. All kits included... C. Youngquist, J. Norton, J. Harsh |
27. Making N Budgets Work: a CCA View from the Field... K. Backman |
28. Cropmanage: an Online Decision Support Tool for Irrigation and Nutrient ManagementVegetable and berry growers on the central coast of California are under growing regulatory pressure to reduce nitrate loading to ground and surface water supplies. Two tools available to farmers to improve nitrogen use efficiency of these crops are the soil nitrate quick test (SNQT) for monitoring soil residual N concentrations and evapotranspiration (ET)-based irrigation scheduling for estimating crop water requirements. We developed a web-based software application, called CropManage (https://ucanr.edu/cropmanage),... M. Cahn, T. Hartz, R. Smith, B. Noel, L. Johnson, F. Melton |
29. Permanent Crops - Nutrient ManagementIn California, environmental regulations are rapidly expanding and moving into new areas of concern at a very rapid pace. Most recent requirements are based primarily on nitrogen and how it fits into a Nutrient Management Program (NMP). CCAs are being asked to assist growers in controlling nitrogen use to reduce/avoid its discharge to the environment. The Regional Water Quality Control Board of California classifies a discharge as lateral movement to surface waters or movement past the root system... K. Backman |
30. Irrigation and Nitrogen Management Web-based Software for Lettuce ProductionLettuce growers on the central coast of California are under increased regulatory pressure to reduce nitrate loading to ground and surface water supplies. Two tools available to farmers to improve nitrogen use efficiency of lettuce are the quick nitrate soil test (QNST) for monitoring soil mineral nitrogen levels and weather-based irrigation scheduling for estimating water needs of the crop. We developed a web-based software application, called CropManage (https://ucanr.edu/cropmanage), to facilitate... M. Cahn, R. Smith, T. Hartz, B. Noel |
31. Nitrogen Transformations in Flooded Agroecosystems: a Case Study with Taro (Colocassia Esculenta)Wetland agriculture covers an estimated 170 million ha and contributes significantly to global food supply. Nitrogen fertilizers are subject to numerous potential transformation pathways in flooded systems. The present research was focused on improving our understanding of N transformations in a flooded agricultural system by addressing the following two broad objectives: 1) determine whether the presence of anammox bacteria and its activity contribute significantly to N losses, and 2) evaluate... J. Deenik, C. Penton, B. Popp, G. Bruland, P. Engstrom, J. Mueller, J. Tiedje |
32. Exploring Controlled Release Nitrogen Fertilizers for Vegetable and Melon Crop Production in California and ArizonaVarious forms of polymer coated urea (PCU) were examined as sources of controlled release nitrogen for production of cauliflower, watermelon, carrot, and spinach in Arizona or California. Studies were designed to demonstrate the effectiveness of PCU for supplying 100 percent of the fertilizer nitrogen needed for an entire growing season in a single pre-plant application. In each study, two or more N rates were tested. PCU having an appropriate release time for a given set of growing conditions... R. Smith, A. Blaylock, E. Ellison, C. Sanchez |
33. Nitrogen Dynamics in Conventional, Reduced Tillage and Organic Irrigated Systems: Results of a Four-year Experiment in WyomingSoil nitrogen (N) is critically important for crop production. A field experiment was conducted in eastern Wyoming to evaluate soil mineralizable (mineralized in 14 days incubation) and inorganic N contents as influenced by conventional, organic and reduced-tillage management approaches for cash-crop and forage production in eastern Wyoming. Soil samples were collected from all treatments (2 production systems x 3 management approaches) during 2009-2012 and analyzed for soil mineralizable and... R. Ghimire, J. Norton |
34. Efficient N Fertility and Irrigation Management in Vegetable and Berry ProductionNitrogen (N) fertility and irrigation management for vegetable and berry production has historically been done on an ‘agronomic’ basis, with the sole focus on producing the optimal crop. For these crops N fertilizer and water costs are a small portion of overall production costs, and an even smaller portion of crop value; consequently, these inputs have not been scrutinized as closely as they have been for lower value crops. However, throughout the West concern over environmental water... T. Hartz, R. Smith, M. Cahn |
35. Effect of Nitrogen Rate and Cropping System on Soil Nutrient Levels in a Long-term StudyDiversified continuous cropping systems in semi-arid regions of the northern Great Plains may enhance sustainability. A study initiated in 2000 in southwest Montana was designed to evaluate crop productivity and economic returns for no- till and organic rotations that included small grains, pulses, and oilseeds. Our specific objective presented here was to compare soil nutrient differences from 2004 to 2012, to learn if economically superior rotations were building or depleting soil nutrients.... C. Jones, P. Miller, T. Rick, A. Mccauley |
36. Reducing Nutrient Losses in Runoff from Furrow IrrigationFew studies have comprehensively examined nutrient losses in runoff from furrow-irrigated fields, but the rising cost of fertilizer and finite nature of the resource encourages further research. A 2-yr experiment measured runoff losses of sediment, particulate P and N, and dissolved NO3-N, NH4-N, K, and reactive P (DRP) from fertilized, manured, or non-amended fields. Average nutrient losses were substantial, including 15.6 lbs ac-1 yr-1 dissolved N, P, and K and 73.6 lbs ac- 1 yr-1 particulate... R. Lentz, D. Westermann, G. Lehrsch |
37. Sidedress Nitrogen Management in Lima BeansDifferent rates of sidedress nitrogen were applied to bush baby lima beans, with and without starter fertilizer and rhizobia inoculant in Yolo County, CA in 2012. Results documented that the use of starter fertilizer (nitrogen, phosphorus, and zinc) significantly enhanced yields compared to control plots without starter fertilizer. Use of rhizobia inoculant at planting did not result in enhanced yields compared with no inoculant. Sidedressing with ammonium sulfate at 20, 40, 60 and 80 lbs/acre... R. Long, R. Meyer |
38. Differences in How Late Season Soil Vs. Foliar Nitrogen Fertilizer Supplements Affects Riesling YanDuring the 2011 and 2012 growing seasons, 0, 15, or 30 lbs/A N was applied in split applications as either soil (simulated drip) or foliar applications to a commercial Riesling vineyard with a history of low vine N. Each treatment was replicated 4 times. To assess the impact of the supplemental N applications on vine vigor, shoot lengths were measured weekly and pruning weights collected during the dormant season (2012/2013 pruning not yet conducted). Fruit was harvested within 2 days of commercial... J. Davenport, M. Mccoy |
39. Impact of an Enhanced Nitrogen Fertilizer (ESN) on Irrigated Crop Production in South Central MontanaTrials were conducted at the Montana State University Southern Agricultural Research Center in Huntley, MT using ESN (44% N, Agrium Advanced Technologies) in combination with urea (45% N) on three different irrigated crops: spring wheat, corn, and sugar beet. Each experiment was a randomized complete block with 4 replications using either 4 or 6 nitrogen rates in combination with 6 or 4 mixing ratios of ESN:urea, plus one unfertilized check for a total of 25 treatments. Urea and ESN were weighed... K. Mcvay, K. Kephart, Q. Khan |
40. Polymer Coated Urea (ESN): Impacts on Potato Crop and N LossesPotato (Solanum tuberosum L.) production is sensitive to a steady, adequate supply of nitrogen (N). Synergistically optimizing grower profits while maximizing N use efficiency (NUE) is critical to conserve nonrenewable natural resources used to manufacture N fertilizer and minimize N pollution to water and the atmosphere. Polymer coated urea (PCU, Environmentally Smart N or ESN®) is one type of N fertilizer which uses temperature-controlled diffusion to control N release to better match plant... B. Hopkins, C. Ransom, T. Taysom, J. Lemonte |
41. Development and Use of the OSU Organic Fertilizer and Cover Crop CalculatorFarm advisory visits in Oregon highlighted the need for decision tools to help farmers and agricultural professionals estimate nitrogen (N) mineralization from organic fertilizers and cover crops, design balanced fertilizer plans and identify the most cost effective nutrient management options. Laboratory and field research was conducted to develop N mineralization models for organic fertilizers and compost based on the total percent N. Field methods for estimating cover crop biomass and total... N. Andrews, D. Sullivan, J. Julian, K. Pool |
42. Soil and Plant Analysis: How They Fit into a “Green” Nutrient Management ProgramEnvironmental concerns are changing the face of agricultural fertilization across the nation and world. Both nitrogen and phosphorus have become the major concerns in this area with other nutrients, salts, and chemicals being discussed for future regulations. The focus of environmental regulation depends on the characteristics of different geographical regions. Soil, water, and tissue analyses are needed to meet application requirements as regulatory documents are being drafted and implemented.... K. Backman |
43. Organic Management Improves Soil Health and Strawberry Nutritive ValueSoils and strawberries from 13 matched pairs of organically and conventionally managed fields were assessed over two years. Available plant nutrients were generally similar under organic and conventional management except that organically managed soils contained more available Zn and B. Soil C, N, and biological parameters were much greater under organic management. Organically produced strawberries matched by variety were smaller and had greater dry matter content than conventionally produced... L. Carpenter-boggs, J. Reganold, J. Reeve, P. Andrews |
44. Regional Water Board Impacts on Vegetable Production in CaliforniaMore than 300,000 ha of vegetable crops are produced annually in the coastal valleys of central California. In these valleys vegetable production dominates the landscape, and since most fields produce two or more crops per year the annual fertilizer input is very high. Not surprisingly, environmentally problematic levels of soluble phosphorus in surface waters, and nitrate-nitrogen (NO3-N) in both surface- and groundwater, are common. The Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board (WQCB)... T. Hartz |
45. Efficient N Management for High-yield Vegetable ProductionVegetable production is an N-intensive industry; rates of N fertilization can be very high, particularly where multiple crops per year are produced. In vegetable production areas across the country high nitrate-nitrogen (NO3-N) concentration in surface water and groundwater is focusing regulatory scrutiny on fertilization practices. Furthermore, escalating energy prices mean higher N fertilizer costs, making efficient N management an economic as well as an environmental necessity. The basic principle... T. Hartz |
46. Phosphorus Dynamics in Organic Matter-amended SoilsGenerally, phosphorus (P) is considered immobile in calcareous soils. Yet, numerous studies have found that the addition of organic wastes (e.g. manures) can enhance P mobility in these soils. We believe that the soluble organic matter present in these wastes increases P solubility by inhibiting the sorption of inorganic P on soil colloidal surfaces and subsequently preventing the formation of insoluble calcium phosphates. This results in increased P bioavailability. Likewise, tests used to assess... P. Grossl, R. Koenig, C. Jones, S. Trolove |
47. Elemental Sulfur with Iron: Kentucky BluegrassIron (Fe) is known to improve greenness of Kentucky bluegrass (KBG; Poa pratensis L.), although applications are relatively costly and labor intensive. A new fertilizer material, elemental sulfur impregnated with Fe (ES-Fe), may provide an alternative source of Fe for KBG. The effects of ES-Fe on KBG was evaluated comparing 55 lb-Fe ac-1 ES-Fe to ferrous sulfate (FS) at the same rate and chelated Fe as a foliar (CF) or soil applied (CS) in a glasshouse study. A separate... B. Hopkins, B. Webb, K. Marcroft, R. Christenson, V. Jolley |
48. An Evaluation of the Effects of Diversified Cropping Systems on Soil Organic Matter, Nutrient Dynamics, Yield and Economics of Dry Land Winter Wheat and Irrigated Sugar Beet in WyomingThe overall objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of different cropping systems and irrigation methods used by Wyoming farmers on soil chemical, biological and physical properties, yield, economic returns and long term ecological sustainability of dryland and irrigated crop production. The Project, which is being carried out on dryland winter wheat systems in the Albin and Slater areas and on irrigated sugar beet systems in the Big Horn basin near Powell, will go... J. Norton, E. Mukhwana |
49. Irrigated Small Grain Residue Management Effects on Soil Properties and Nutrient CyclingThe effects of straw removal from irrigated wheat and barley fields on soil properties and nutrient cycling is a concern due to its potential impact on the sustainability of agricultural production. The demand for animal bedding and the potential development of cellulosic ethanol production will likely increase straw demand in the future. Previous reviews addressing changes in soil properties when crop residues are removed focused primarily on rain-fed systems. This paper reviews published research... D. Tarkalson, B. Brown, D. Bjorneberg, H. Kok |
50. Best Management Practices (Bmps) for Ammonia Emissions Reduction from Animal Feeding Operations: a Colorado Case StudyAmmonia emissions from agriculture are a growing concern, in particular, in Colorado where nitrogen deposition in Rocky Mountain National Park has highlighted public concerns. Due to the high level of political pressure on agriculture to reduce its emissions, the agricultural community in Colorado has recently developed a Rocky Mountain National Park Ag Strategy for decreasing ammonia emissions from agriculture and nitrogen deposition in the park. The strategy includes the completion of a thorough... J. G. davis, A. Elliott, N. Marcillac, J. Pritchett, C. Stewart, A. Mink |
51. Nitrogen Cycling and Partitioning Under Alternative Organic Orchard Floor Management StrategiesOrganic orchard systems are a significant and growing component of Washington State agriculture, yet sustainable methods of nitrogen (N) fertility and weed management remain a challenge. Nutrient supply is dependent on decomposition and mineralization of organic matter, yet intensive cultivation commonly used to control weeds can disrupt biological processes and cause loss of organic matter. To address the often-competing goals of organic fertility and weed control, a number of alternative orchard... L. Carpenter-boggs, D. Granatstein, J. Reganold, L. Hoagland, M. Mazzola, F. Peryea, J. Smith |
52. No-till Grain Production in Wyoming: Status and PotentialIn dryland cropping systems, optimal yields require that nutrient supply matches the soil’s yield potential supported by available moisture. Conservation tillage systems that leave at least 30 percent of the soil surface covered by residue dramatically increase moisture retained in the soil compared to crop-fallow systems. This enables producers to plant two, three, or four consecutive crops, or continuously, without fallow, but water and nutrient needs are much more closely balanced with... J. Norton |
53. 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 plant... O. Adeyemi, J. Spackman, J. Sagers, J. Marshall, Z. Hong, R. Findlay, J. Bevan |
54. 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 better-informed... M. Yost, M. Baker, J. Gale, E. Creech, G. Cardon |
55. 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 rate... M. Yost, M. Baker, J. Gale, G. Cardon, E. Creech |
56. 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, variable... E.A. Flint, M. Yost, B. Hopkins |
57. 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 outcomes... D. Boren, M. Yost, T. Sullivan |
58. 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 States... T. Sullivan, M. Yost, D. Boren, E. Creech, B. Bugbee |
59. 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 |
60. 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 uncertain... L.R. Schott, S. Hines, J. Packham, G. Loomis, M. De haro marti, C. Willmore |
61. 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 water... M. Cahn, R. Smith, L. Johnson, F. Melton |
62. Soil Greenhouse Gas Dynamics in Response to Dairy Manure Compost in an Almond OrchardApplication of dairy manure compost in soils under almond production may confer benefits such as increased carbon sequestration, improved crop nutrient use efficiency, and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Elucidating the mechanisms of greenhouse gas emissions and mitigation is a primary concern in the management of agricultural soils and it is directly linked to nutrient management. Presently, agricultural soils account for 11.2% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. Of particular concern is... A. Coyotl, J. Murch, S.S. Khalsa, W.R. Horwath |
63. 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 |
64. 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 spring... R. Findlay, J. Spackman, J. Hatch, T. Jacobsen, J. Gibbons, J. Sagers, D. Callister |
65. 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 |
66. 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 |
67. 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 types... A. Cox, A. Moore |
68. 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 of... T. Jacobsen, J. Spackman, A. Adjesiwor, J. Sagers, K. Schroeder, J. Bevan, K. Mookodi, J. Gibbons |
69. 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 understood... D. Olsen, D. Bjorneberg, D. Tarkalson |
70. 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 type... K. Deep, M. Yost, J. Williams, B. Hopkins, G. Cardon, B. Black |
71. 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 information.... E. Flint, M. Yost, B. Hopkins |