Adapting Nitrogen Fertilization to Unpredictable Seasonal Conditions with the Least Impact on the Environment

2006 ◽  
Vol 16 (3) ◽  
pp. 408-412 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nicolas Tremblay ◽  
Carl Bélec
Keyword(s):  
Best Management Practices ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Saturation Index ◽  
N Fertilization ◽  
Soil Conditions ◽  
Vegetable Crops ◽  
N Budget ◽  
Reference Plot ◽  
Weather Events ◽  
Primary Driver

Weather is the primary driver of both plant growth and soil conditions. As a consequence of unpredictable weather effects on crop requirements, more inputs are being applied as an insurance policy. Best management practices (BMPs) are therefore about using minimal input for maximal return in a context of unpredictable weather events. This paper proposes a set of complementary actions and tools as BMP for nitrogen (N) fertilization of vegetable crops: 1) planning from an N budget, 2) reference plot establishment, and 3) crop sensing prior to in-season N application based on a saturation index related to N requirement.

scholarly journals Spatialized N budgets in a large agricultural Mediterranean watershed: high loading and low transfer

2012 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
pp. 57-70 ◽  
Author(s):  
L. Lassaletta ◽  
E. Romero ◽  
G. Billen ◽  
J. Garnier ◽  
H. García-Gómez ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
River Basin ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
N Fertilization ◽  
Irrigated Agriculture ◽  
N Budget ◽  
Ebro River ◽  
N Retention ◽  
Management Measures ◽  
Mediterranean Regions ◽  
Food And Feed

Abstract. Despite the particular management practices and climate characteristics of the Mediterranean regions, the literature dealing with N budgets in large catchments subjected to Mediterranean conditions is scarce. The present study aims to deepen our knowledge on the N cycle within the Ebro River Basin (NE Spain) by means of two different approaches: (1) calculating a global N budget in the Ebro River Basin and (2) calculating a series of detailed regional budgets at higher geographical resolution. N inputs and outputs were spatialized by creating a map based on the most detailed information available. Fluvial and atmospheric N export was estimated together with N retention. The Ebro River Basin annually receives a relatively high amount of new N (5118 kg N km−2 yr−1), mostly in the form of synthetic fertilizers (50%). Although it is a highly productive catchment, the net N input as food and feed import is also high (33%). Only 8% of this N is finally exported to the delta zone. Several territorial units characterized by different predominant uses (rainfed agriculture, irrigated agriculture and pastures) have differentiated N dynamics. However, due to the high density of irrigation channels and reservoirs that characterize Mediterranean catchments, N retention is very high in all of them (median value, 91%). These results indicate that problems of eutrophication due to N delivery in the coastal area may not be too severe but that high N retention values may instead lead to problems within the catchment, such as pollution of aquifers and rivers, as well as high atmospheric emissions. The most promising management measures are those devoted to reducing agricultural surpluses through a better balanced N fertilization.

Compliance with Silvicultural Best Management Practices on Harvested Sites in South Carolina

1994 ◽  
Vol 18 (4) ◽  
pp. 163-167
Author(s):  
Tim O. Adams ◽  
Donal D. Hook
Keyword(s):  
South Carolina ◽  
Best Management Practices ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Timber Harvesting ◽  
Soil Conditions ◽  
Management Zones ◽  
Best Management ◽  
Streamside Management Zones ◽  
Forestry Commission ◽  
Physiographic Regions

Abstract One-hundred-seventy-seven harvested sites in South Carolina were evaluated for compliance with Best Management Practices (BMPs). South Carolina Forestry Commission (SCFC)foresters evaluated the roads, road stream crossings, streamside management zones, harvest operations, and log decks. In addition, each site was evaluated for overall BMP compliance, which was based on the level of both off-site and on-site impacts. Overall BMP compliance was 84.7%. Compliance was highest for log decks (97.7%), roads (92.0%), and harvest operations (89.8%) and lowest for streamside management zones (72.4%) and road stream crossings (41.7%). Nineteen variables were analyzed to determine their influence on BMP compliance. Two variables were responsible for the 27 sites with inadequate ratings: (1) the presence of perennial and intermittent streams, and (2) logging under wet soil conditions. Compliance did not differ significantly among landowner categories or physiographic regions. To improve BMP compliance, landowners should identify sensitive sites and take adequate steps to protect them during timber harvesting. South. J. Appl. For. 18(4):163-167.

scholarly journals The Common Approaches of Nitrogen Removal in Bioretention System

2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (5) ◽  
pp. 2575
Author(s):  
Wafaa Ali ◽  
Husna Takaijudin ◽  
Khamaruzaman Wan Yusof ◽  
Manal Osman ◽  
Abdurrasheed Sa’id Abdurrasheed
Keyword(s):  
Nitrogen Removal ◽  
Best Management Practices ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Nitrogen Concentration ◽  
Soil Conditions ◽  
Stormwater Quality ◽  
Filter Media ◽  
The Third ◽  
Bioretention System ◽  
N Removal

Bioretention is considered one of the best management practices (BMPS) for managing stormwater quality and quantity. The bioretention system has proven good performance in removing total suspended solids, oil, and heavy metals. The nitrogen (N) removal efficiency of the bioretention system is insufficient, however, due to the complex forms of nitrogen. Therefore, this paper aims to review recent enhancement approaches to nitrogen (N) removal and to discuss the factors influencing bioretention efficiency. To improve bioretention efficiency, several factors should be considered when designing bioretention systems, including nitrogen concentration, climate factors, and hydrological factors. Further, soil and plant selection should be appropriate for environmental conditions. Three design improvement approaches have been reviewed. The first is the inclusion of a saturated zone (SZ), which has been used widely. The SZ is shown to have the best performance in nitrogen removal. The second approach (which is less popular) is the usage of additives in the form of a mixture with soil media or as a separated layer. This concept is intended to be applied in tropical regions with wet soil conditions and a short dry period. The third approach combines the previous two approaches (enhanced filter media and applying a SZ). This approach is more efficient and has recently attracted more attention. This study suggests that further studies on the third approach should be carried out. Applying amendment material through filter media and integrating it with SZ provides appropriate conditions to complete the nitrogen cycle. This approach is considered a promising method to enhance nitrogen removal. In general, the bioretention system offers a promising tool for improving stormwater quality.

scholarly journals Spatialized N budgets in a large agricultural Mediterranean watershed: high loading and low transfer

2011 ◽  
Vol 8 (4) ◽  
pp. 8723-8759 ◽  
Author(s):  
L. Lassaletta ◽  
E. Romero ◽  
G. Billen ◽  
J. Garnier ◽  
H. García-Gómez ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
River Basin ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
N Fertilization ◽  
Irrigated Agriculture ◽  
N Budget ◽  
Ebro River ◽  
N Retention ◽  
Management Measures ◽  
Mediterranean Regions ◽  
Food And Feed

Abstract. Despite the particular management practices and climate characteristics of the Mediterranean regions, the literature dealing with N budgets in large catchments subjected to Mediterranean conditions is scarce. The present study aims to deepen our knowledge on the N cycle within the Ebro River Basin (NE Spain) by means of two different approaches: (1) calculating a global N budget in the Ebro River Basin and (2) calculating a series of detailed regional budgets at higher geographical resolution. N inputs and outputs were spatialized by creating a map based on the most detailed information available. Fluvial and atmospheric N export was estimated together with N retention. The Ebro River Basin annually receives a relatively high amount of new N (5118 kg N km−2 yr−1), mostly in the form of synthetic fertilizers (50 %). Although it is a highly productive catchment, the net N input as food and feed import is also high (33 %). Only 8 % of this N is finally exported to the delta zone. Several territorial units characterized by different predominant uses (rainfed agriculture, irrigated agriculture and pastures) have differentiated N dynamics. However, due to the high density of irrigation channels and reservoirs that characterize Mediterranean basins, N retention is very high in all of them (median value, 92 %). These results indicate that problems of eutrophication due to N delivery in the coastal area may not be too severe but that high N retention values may instead lead to problems within the catchment, such as pollution of aquifers and rivers, as well as high atmospheric emissions. The most promising management measures are those devoted to reducing agricultural surpluses such as balanced N fertilization and low N livestock feeding.

scholarly journals (215) From Recommendation to Implementation: Involving Vegetable Growers in Best Management Practices

HortScience ◽  
2005 ◽  
Vol 40 (4) ◽  
pp. 1072D-1073
Author(s):  
Eric Simonne ◽  
David Studstill ◽  
Robert Hochmuth ◽  
Justin Jones ◽  
Cynthia Stewart
Keyword(s):  
Best Management Practices ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Cultural Practices ◽  
Water Movement ◽  
Root Zone ◽  
Average Rate ◽  
Irrigation Management ◽  
Educational Process ◽  
Adoption Process ◽  
Vegetable Crops

The Federal Clear Water Act and Florida legislation have mandated the clean-up of impaired water bodies. The BMP manual for vegetable crops lists the cultural practices that could maintain productivity while minimizing environmental impact. BMPs focus on increased fertilizer and irrigation efficiency, but growers must be involved in the demonstration and adoption process if this voluntary program is to be successful. Three commercial vegetable fields from farms recognized as leaders in fertilizer and irrigation management were selected to demonstrate how irrigation and fertilizer management are linked together and how management may prevent water movement below the root zone of melons grown with plasticulture. In Spring 2004, dye (Brilliant blue FCF) was injected into the irrigation water three times during the growing season and soil profiles were dug to determine the depth of dye movement. Similar results were found at all three locations as the dye moved below at an average rate of 1.9 to 3.6 cm per day. Water movement was greater early in the season as irrigation was applied for transplant establishment. These results suggest that some leaching is likely to occur on light-textured soils, even when sophisticated irrigation and fertilization practices are followed. Based on these observations, cooperators spontaneously proposed to use two drip tapes, reduce preplant fertilizer, use a 100% injected N/K program, and/or add organic matter to the soil as attempts to slow water movement below the root zone of their crops. This project shows that growers are more likely to try and adopt sustainable practices when they actively participate in the educational process than when production changes are mandated through legislation.

scholarly journals Nitrogen use efficiency in crops with new and available technologies

2021 ◽  
Vol 23 (3) ◽  
pp. 256-266
Author(s):  
D BLAISE ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Best Management Practices ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Nutrient Management ◽  
N Fertilization ◽  
Production Costs ◽  
Mineral Nutrient ◽  
Fertilizer N ◽  
Physiological Processes ◽  
Use Efficiency ◽  
The One

Among fertilizers, nitrogen (N) is the one that is used in the largest amounts mainly due to immediate response to the fertilizer-N application. However, the N use efficiency (NUE) is very low leading to high production costs and also a threat to the environment. Therefore, improving NUE is imperative. The 4 R’s (right quantity, right time, right method and right source) should be considered as the first step for enhancing NUE. Best management practices (BMP’s) of production and protection need to be adopted in order to achieve high NUE. Integration of novel N sources and nanofertilizers and better N fertilization products would lead to high NUE. Furthermore, novel techniques such as Precision Nutrient Management and Variable Rate Application to time nutrient application with crop need, and remote sensing are upcoming technologies that will bring about considerable savings in fertilizer-N. Further we should also account for plant physiological processes, including the diversity of mineral nutrient uptake mechanisms, their translocation and metabolism in order to breed and develop crop cultivars that are efficient N users.

scholarly journals Guidelines for Enrolling in Florida's BMP Program for Vegetable Crops

EDIS ◽  
2007 ◽  
Vol 2007 (18) ◽  
Author(s):  
Aparna Gazula ◽  
Eric Simonne ◽  
Brian Boman
Keyword(s):  
Best Management Practices ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Online Resources ◽  
Vegetable Crops ◽  
Fact Sheet ◽  
Best Management ◽  
Voluntary Program

HS-1114, a 17-page illustrated fact sheet by Aparna Gazula, Eric Simonne, and Brian Boman, describes this voluntary program for vegetable producers, how to sign up, human and online resources for participants, how to select appropriate best management practices, and the free mobile irrigation labs that are available for making customized recommendations. Published by the UF Department of Horticultural Sciences, August 2007.  

scholarly journals 673 A Synthesis of Worldwide Approaches for Rationalizing Nitrogen Fertilization of Vegetable Crops

HortScience ◽  
2000 ◽  
Vol 35 (3) ◽  
pp. 514E-514
Author(s):  
N. Tremblay ◽  
C. Bélec
Keyword(s):  
Nitrogen Fertilization ◽  
Environmental Sustainability ◽  
Vegetable Crops ◽  
N Budget ◽  
European Continent ◽  
Reference Plot ◽  
Absolute Requirement ◽  
Use Efficiency ◽  
Plant Stand

The necessity of achieving appropriate nitrogen fertilization of vegetable crops relates to both economical and environmental sustainability. Split nitrogen applications have been shown to improve N-use efficiency, in line with the aforementioned objective and should therefore be encouraged. Given the variation in the amount of N naturally provided to, or uptaken by, the crop, strategies are required to tailor supplementary fertilization to actual crop needs, keeping in mind the absolute requirement for optimal yield in quality and quantity. It is suggested that the fertilization rates applied at sowing or later in the season can be figured in two manners. The first relies on modelling; the second on measurements. The modelling (N budget) approach, mostly linked to initiatives on the European continent, would be most applicable to the determination of the first fertilizer dressing. When a plant stand is established, however, canopy-based measurements made either directly or remotely could be developed to make use of the capability of the plants to integrate the properties of the soil environment and to decide upon further top-dressed applications. For this purpose, a fully fertilized “reference plot” has to be introduced in the field in order to overcome the variability induced by season, site and cultivar. With the emergence of “precision farming” and “remote sensing technologies” it is now possible to adjust fertilizer inputs not only at the field level but also within fields based on actual, localized requirements.

scholarly journals Current Knowledge, Gaps, and Future Needs for Keeping Water and Nutrients in the Root Zone of Vegetables Grown in Florida

2010 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
pp. 143-152 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eric Simonne ◽  
Chad Hutchinson ◽  
Jim DeValerio ◽  
Robert Hochmuth ◽  
Danielle Treadwell ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Best Management Practices ◽  
Drip Irrigation ◽  
Time Management ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Root Zone ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Nutrient Use Efficiency ◽  
Vegetable Crops ◽  
Recycled Water ◽  
Management Tools

The success of the best management practices (BMPs) program for vegetables in Florida is measured by the level of BMP implementation and the improvement of water quality. Both require keeping water and fertilizer in the root zone of vegetables. The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Extension Vegetable Group has identified the fundamental principles of 1) basing UF/IFAS production recommendations on the rigors of science and the reality of field production; 2) replacing the out-of-date paradigm “pollute less by reducing nutrient application rates” with “improve water management and adjust fertilizer programs accordingly”; 3) engaging growers, consultants, educators, and regulators in open-channel discussions; and 4) regularly updating current fertilization and irrigation recommendations for vegetables grown in Florida to reflect current varieties used by the industry. The group identified 1) developing ultralow-flow drip irrigation; 2) assisting conversion from seepage to drip irrigation; 3) using recycled water; 4) developing controlled-release fertilizers for vegetables; 5) developing real-time management tools for continuous monitoring of soil water and chemical parameters; 6) developing yield mapping tools for vegetable crops; 7) developing and testing drainage lysimeter designs suitable for in-field load assessment; and 8) using grafting and breeding to develop commercially acceptable varieties with improved nutrient use efficiency by improving morphological, biochemical, and chemical traits as new strategies to keep nutrients in the root zone. These strategies should become funding priorities for state agencies to help the vegetable industry successfully transition into the BMP era.

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