NCR13: Soil Testing and Plant Analysis

(Multistate Research Coordinating Committee and Information Exchange Group)

Status: Inactive/Terminating

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SAES-422 Reports

Annual/Termination Reports:

[07/23/2003] [12/01/2005] [12/06/2005]

Date of Annual Report: 07/23/2003

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 11/19/2002 - 11/20/2002
Period the Report Covers: 01/01/2002 - 12/01/2002

Participants

Members Present:
Dr. Ted Peck, University of Illinois,
Dr. Antonio Mallarino, Iowa State University,
Dr. Ray Lamond, Kansas State University,
Dr. Darryl Warncke, Michigan State University,
Dr. George Rehm, University of Minnesota,
Dr. Manjula Nathan, University of Missouri,
Dr. Achim Dobermann, University of Nebraska,
Dr. Jay Goos, North Dakota State University,
Dr. Maurice Watson, Ohio State University,
Keith Reid, OMFRA-Ontario, Canada,
Dr. Ron Gelderman, South Dakota State University,
John Peters, University of Wisconsin,
Dr. Kevin McSweeney,
(Administrative Advisor) University of Wisconsin,
Members Absent:
Dr. Douglas Beegle, Pennsylvania State University,
Dr. Sylvie Brouder, Purdue University,

Guests:
Roger Eliason, University of Minnesota,
Jon Dahl, Michigan State University,
Dr. Tom Morris, University of Connecticut,

Brief Summary of Minutes

J. Goos was welcomed as incoming state representative from North Dakota replacing L. Cihacek who will be no longer directly involved in soil testing.

D. Warncke distributed a summary of the evaluation sheets and a financial report for the 2001 Soil Plant Analysts Workshop. Discussion took place on the timing of the NCR-13 Soil-Plant Analysts Workshop. Factors to consider: Several private labs have indicated that November is a busy time for them, making it difficult for them to attend. The Four-State (Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, Wisconsin) Soil Testing Workshop will be held February 20 and 21. Moving the NCR 13 Workshop to February will allow the two to alternate.

K. McSweeney reported about USDA programs and the Farm Bill as negotiations were still going on. All NCR Committees are being encouraged to use the NIMSS, National Management and Support System.

A discussion was held about future committee meetings, the role of the Soil and Plant Analysts Workshop, regional workshops, and workshops that have been conducted by groups of states (IA, IL, MN, WI). The committee was in agreement that regional/multi-state workshops represent an attractive new activity that can be supported by NCR-13. The committee agreed to meet informally during the 2003 ASA meetings in Denver.

Subcommittee and state reports followed and were discussed.

M. Nathan was confirmed as chair of the committee for 2003.

Minutes Attachment:

Attachment

Accomplishments

Extraction Subcommittee: Coordinated laboratory work among various state laboratories together with field calibrations in Iowa during the last three years resulted in the first crop response based interpretations for the Mehlich-3 ICP soil P test in the Midwest. Private laboratories are rapidly adopting this test, and the committees work was very useful for providing guidelines for its use. There was consensus that potassium interpretations and fertilizer recommendations based on the Ammonium Acetate (AA) test should be improved. The committee has been conducting cooperative work at Iowa State and Purdue to analyze soils for K according to different procedures. Results of laboratory or field work in Iowa and Minnesota on agronomic and environmental P tests to assess the risk for P loss with surface runoff and subsurface drainage was discussed. Waste Subcommittee: A final draft of the manure testing manual was completed and the manure testing manual was posted on the web. The plan is to only publish the manual on the web at this time, with the possibility of printing some hard copies in the future if the demand exists. Methodologies for Developing Recommendations Subcommittee: This committee was established recently to encourage discussions and research on methods for conducting soil-test calibrations and for developing recommendations. Work during the past year involved discussions and field work mainly at Iowa State and Minnesota. This work emphasizes the use of field-scale replicated strip trials for soil-test calibration using precision agriculture technologies and various zoning methods for soil sample collection. Organic Carbon Subcommittee: Reviewed results of a study on the influence of sample grinding size on analytical precision for organic carbon analysis conducted in Minnesota. Discussion on the precision of C measurements and extrapolation to field scale in relation to field variability followed. It was suggested that the NCR-13 soil bank samples be used in an exchange to analyzed C by various methods and with various CN analyzers. QA/QC Subcommittee: Progress was made on the QA/QC manual. This is a joint effort of the S890 (NAPT) Committee and several of the regional soil test committees. Six chapters are finished. Interstate Coordination Subcommittee: North Dakota, South Dakota and Minnesota are working on coordinating recommendations for iron and sulfur deficient situations. Working is ongoing on expanding the Tri-State recommendations for Michigan, Ohio and Indiana to include all field and vegetable crops. Web Subcommittee: Discussion took place about maintaining the site and what materials to include, but no firm decisions were made. Sampling Subcommittee: This Subcommittee has been inactive.

Publications

Journal papers: Atia, A.M., and A.P. Mallarino. 2002. Agronomic and environmental phosphorus testing for soils receiving swine manure. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. J. 66:1696-1705. Bianchini, A.A., and A.P. Mallarino. 2002. Soil sampling alternatives and variable-rate liming for a soybean-corn rotation. Agron. J. 94:1355-1366. Binder, D.L., A. Dobermann, D.H. Sander, and K.G. Cassman. 2002. Biosolids as nitrogen source for irrigated maize and dryland sorghum. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. J. 66:531-543. Cassman, K.G., A. Dobermann, and D.T. Walters. 2002. Agroecosystems, nitrogen-use efficiency, and nitrogen management. Ambio 31:132-140. Dobermann, A., T. George, and N. Thevs. 2002. Phosphorus fertilizer effects on soil phosphorus pools in acid upland soils. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. J. 66:652-660. Dobermann, A., and K.G. Cassman. 2002. Plant nutrient management for enhanced productivity in intensive grain production systems of the United States and Asia. Plant Soil 247:153-175. Eash N.S. and J.A.Lamb. 2002. Sampling techniques for soil fertility evaluation: An exercise in understanding variability. J. Natural Resources and Life Sciences Education. 31:81-87. Gelderman, R.H., J.R. Gerwing, and E. Twidwell. 2002. Point-injected phosphorus effects on established cool-season grass yield and phosphorus content. Agron. J. 94:48-51. Laboski,C.A.M. and J.A. Lamb. 2003. Changes in soil test phosphorus concentration after application of manure or fertilizer. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. J. 67:544-554. Lamb,J.A. and G.W. Rehm. 2002. Short-term stability of soil test phosphorus in agricultural fields. Can. J. Soil Sci. 82:239-247. Mallarino, A.P. 2003. Field calibration for corn of the Mehlich-3 soil phosphorus test with colorimetric and inductively-coupled plasma emission spectroscopy determination methods. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. J. In press. Mallarino, A.P., and D.J. Wittry. 2003. Efficacy of grid and zone soil sampling approaches for site-specific assessment of phosphorus, potassium, pH, and organic matter. Precision Agric. In press. Mallarino, A.P., B.M. Stewart, J.L. Baker, J.A. Downing, and J.E. Sawyer. 2002. Phosphorus indexing for cropland: Overview and basic concepts of the Iowa phosphorus index. J. Soil Water Conserv. 57:440-447. Motavalli, P., Lory, J., Nathan, M., and C. Fulcher. 2002. Increased Access to Soil Testing Databases Through the World-Wide Web: Opportunities and Issues. Commun. Soil. Sci. Vol:33 p.1157-1172 Wittry, D.J., and A.P. Mallarino. 2003. Comparison of uniform and variable-rate phosphorus fertilization for the corn-soybean rotation. Agron. J. In press. Proceedings/extension papers: Adamchuk, V.I., A. Dobermann, M.T. Morgan, and S.M. Brouder. 2002. Feasibility of on-the-go mapping of soil nitrate and potassium using ion selective electrodes. ASAE paper no. 02-1183. InASAE, St. Joseph, MI. Billota,J. 2002. Soil Test Phosphorus and Potassium as Affected By Site Specific Soil Fertility Management. M.S. Thesis. University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108 Bly, A., H. Woodard, R. Gelderman, and D. Winter. 2001. Comparison of liquid and dry nitrogen fertilizer materials influence on grain protein and yield of hard red spring wheat at Brookings, SD. Soil PR 01-17. Soil/Water Research TB99 (Revised 2002). Brookings: SDAES. Bly, A., J. Gerwing, R. Gelderman, and H. Woodard. 2001. Crop nutrient removal and fertilizer application in South Dakota, 1981 to 2000. Soil PR 01-21. Soil/Water Research TB99 (Revised 2002). Brookings: SDAES. Bly, A., R.Gelderman, J. Gerwing, and J. Doolittle. 2001. Comparison of soil test results taken with a hand probe and a modified chainsaw. Soil PR 01-22. Soil/Water Research TB99 (Revised 2002). Brookings: SDAES. Dobermann, A., T.J. Arkebauer, K.G. Cassman, J.L. Lindquist, J.E. Specht, D.T. Walters, and H.S. Yang. 2002. Understanding and managing corn yield potential. In Proc. of the Fertilizer Industry Round Table, October 28-30, Charleston, SC. The Fertilizer Industry Round Table, Forest Hill, MD. Dobermann, A., T.J. Arkebauer, K.G. Cassman, J.L. Lindquist, D.T. Walters, H.S. Yang, B. Amos, D.L. Binder, and G. Teichmeier. 2002. Understanding corn yield potential and optimal soil productivity in irrigated corn systems. p. 260-272. In A.J. Schlegel (ed.) Great Plains Soil Fertility Conference Proceedings, Vol. 9. Kansas State University, Manhattan,KS. Dobermann, A., T. Arkebauer, K.G. Cassman, R.A. Drijber, J. Lindquist, S. Madhavan, J. Markwell, L. Nelson, J.E. Specht, D.T. Walters, H.S. Yang, B. Amos, D.L. Binder, C. Murphy, and G. Teichmeier. 2002. Corn yield potential and optimal soil productivity in irrigated corn/soybean systems. p. 65-85. In L.S. Murphy (ed.) Proceedings of the 2002 Fluid Forum, Vol. 19. Fluid Fertilizer Foundation, Manhattan,KS. Gelderman, R., and J.R. Gerwing. 2002. Long term residual phosphorus study. 42nd Annual SE Farm Progress Report (In press). Gelderman, R., J. Gerwing, B. Berg, and A. Bly. 2002. Phosphorus rate and placement affects on tilled corn and soybean rotation. 42nd Annual SE Farm Progress Report (In press). Gelderman, R., A. Bly, J. Gerwing, H. Woodard, and B. Berg. 2002. Influence of gypsum on crop yields. 42nd Annual SE Farm Progress Report (In press). Gelderman, R., J. Gerwing, and R. Berg. 2001. Long-term phosphorus management for no-till corn and soybean in the northern corn-belt. Soil PR 01-6. Soil/Water Research TB99 (Revised 2002). Brookings: SDAES Gelderman, R., J. Gerwing, R. Berg, and A. Bly. 2001. Phosphorus rate and placement effects on tilled corn and soybean rotation. Soil PR 01-7. Soil/Water Research TB99 (Revised 2002). Brookings: SDAES. Gelderman, R., J. Gerwing, and G. Carlson. 2001. A summary of soil test results (July 2000 - June 2001). Soil PR 01-28. Soil/Water Research TB99 (Revised 2002). Brookings: SDAES Gelderman, R., J. Gerwing, and A. Bly. 2001. Long term nitrogen and organic P applications on grass. Soil PR 01-8. Soil/Water Research TB99 (Revised 2002). Brookings: SDAES. Gelderman, R., J. Gerwing, and A. Bly. 2001. Influence of potassium (K) rate, placement, and hybrid on K deficiency in corn. Soil PR 01-09. Soil/Water Research TB99 (Revised 2002). Brookings: SDAES Gerwing, J., R. Gelderman, R. Berg, and A. Bly. 2001. Fertilizer potassium, sulfur, zinc, phosphorus, and lime effects on soybean yield on high testing soil. Soil PR 01-4. Soil/Water Research TB99 (Revised 2002). Brookings: SDAES. Gerwing, J., R. Gelderman, A. Bly, and M. Volek. 2001. Fertilizer and soil test effects on soybean yield, Highmore, SD. Soil PR 01-2. Soil/Water Research TB99 (Revised 2002). Brookings: SDAES. Gerwing, J., R. Gelderman, A. Bly, and A. Heuer. 2001. Fertilizer influences on soil test and corn grain yield, Watertown, SD. Soil PR 01-3. Soil/Water Research TB99 (Revised 2002). Brookings: SDAES. Gerwing, J., R. Gelderman, A. Bly, and B. Berg. 2001. Nitrogen management in a corn soybean rotation. Soil PR 01-5. Soil/Water Research TB99 (Revised 2002). Brookings: SDAES. Gerwing, J., R. Gelderman, A. Bly, and B. Berg. 2001. Nitrogen application timing influence on corn grain yield and residual soil nitrate-n, Beresford, SD. Soil PR 01-1. Soil/Water Research TB99 (Revised 2002). Brookings: SDAES. Klatt, J.G., A.P. Mallarino, and B.L. Allen. 2002. Relationships between soil phosphorus and phosphorus in surface runoff and subsurface drainage. An overview of ongoing research. p. 183-189. In North-Central Extension-Industry Soil Fertility Conf. Proceedings. Vol. 17. Des Moines, IA. Lamond, R.E. and D.F. Leikam. 2002. Chloride in Kansas: Plant, soil, and fertilizer considerations. MF-2570. Kansas State University Research and Extension, Manhattan, KS. Leikam, D.F., R.E. Lamond and D.B. Mengel. 2003. Soil Test Interpretations and Fertilizer Recommendations. MF-2586. Kansas State University Research and Extension, Manhattan, KS. Leikam, D.F. and R.E. Lamond. 2002. Estimating manure nutrient availability. MF-2562. Kansas State University Research and Extension, Manhattan, KS. Little, C. and M.E. Watson. Understanding Value of Lime. Ohio State Fact sheet. Lorimor, J., Mallarino, A.P., J.E. Sawyer, and J. Creswell. 2002. Manure resources. Nutrient Management Information Sheet No. 3. Iowa State Univ. Extension. Mallarino, A.P., J.E. Sawyer, and J. Creswell. 2002. Phosphorus application. Nutrient Management Information Sheet No. 2. Iowa State Univ. Extension. Mallarino, A.P., J.E. Sawyer, and J. Creswell. 2002. Soil testing. Nutrient Management Information Sheet No. 1. Iowa State Univ. Extension. Mallarino, A.P., J.E. Sawyer, B. Stewart, and J. Creswell. 2002. Nutrient management plan. Nutrient Management Information Sheet No. 8. Iowa State Univ. Extension. Mallarino, A.P., D.J. Wittry, and P.A. Barbagelata. 2002. Iowa soil-test field calibration research update: Potassium and the Mehlich-3 ICP phosphorus test. p. 29-39. In North-Central Extension-Industry Soil Fertility Conf. Proceedings. Vol. 17. Des Moines, IA. Nathan, M. 2002. Reagents and Standards. Chapter 5. In Quality Assurance and Quality Control Procedure Manual for Soil Testing Labs. Ed. Maurice Watson. North American Proficiency Testing Program Publication. (submitted) Nathan, M.V., Mallarino, A. Eliason, R. and Miller. 2002. ICP vs. Colorimetric Determination of Mehlich III Extractble Phosphorus. International Symposium on Soil & Plant Analysis. Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Commun. Soil Sci. Plant. Anal. 33:2432 Nathan, M. 2002. Soil Testing for Lawns and Gardens - spring is the time to test your soil. Missouri Environment and Garden Newsletter. Vol 8: March Issue Peters, J. B., and K. A. Kelling. 2002. "Thirty-Year Trends of Wisconsin Aglime Use." Proceedings of the 2002 Wisconsin Fertilizer, Aglime and Pest Management Conference. p. 314-320. Madison, WI. Peters J. B, K. A. Kelling and L. G. Bundy. Sampling Soils for Testing. University of Wisconsin - Extension Publication A2100. Madison, WI. Sawyer, J.E., and A.P. Mallarino. 2002. Corn leaf potassium deficiency symptoms. In The Integrated Crop Management Newsletter. IC-488(15). Iowa State Univ. Extension. Sawyer, J.E., A.P. Mallarino, R. Killorn, and S.K. Barnhart. 2002. General guide for crop nutrient recommendations in Iowa. Publ. Pm-1688 (Rev.). Iowa State Univ. Extension. Shapiro, C.A., R.B. Ferguson, G.W. Hergert, A. Dobermann, and C.S. Wortmann. 2001. Fertilizer suggestions for corn. NebGuide G74-174-A. Cooperate Extension, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE. Sulc, R.M., W.P Weiss, G. Wilson, C. Zoller, M. Watson, and L.H. Rhodes. 2002. The Ohio forage production short course. p.337 In American Forage & Grassland Council Proc., Bloomington, MN. 14-17 July 2002. American Forage & Grassland Council, Georgetown, TX Wittry, D.J., and A.P. Mallarino. 2002. Use of variable-rate technology for agronomic and environmental phosphorus-based liquid swine manure management. In P.C. Robert et al. (ed.). Sixth Intl. Conf. on Site-Specific Management for Agricultural Systems. Proceedings. CD-ROM. July14-17. Minneapolis, MN. ASA, CSSA, SSSA, Madison, WI. Published abstracts: Allen, B.L., A.P. Mallarino, J.G. Klatt, J.L. Baker, and M. Camara. 2002. Soil and runoff phosphorus relationships for five typical Iowa soils. Agron. Abs. CD-ROM. ASA-CSSA-SSSA, Madison, WI. Barbazan, M.M., A. P. Mallarino, and J. E. Sawyer. 2002. Liquid swine manure phosphorus utilization in corn-soybean rotations. Agron. Abs. CD-ROM. ASA-CSSA-SSSA, Madison, WI. Bermudez, M., A.P. Mallarino, and D.J. Wittry. 2002. Grain yield and soil-test spatial variability under uniform or variable-rate phosphorus and potassium fertilization. Agron. Abs. CD-ROM. ASA-CSSA-SSSA, Madison, WI. Kaiser, D.E., A. P. Mallarino, and M. Bermudez. 2002. Influence of broadcast and in-the-furrow starter phosphorus and potassium fertilization on corn grain yield, early growth, and nutrient uptake. Agron. Abs. CD-ROM. ASA-CSSA-SSSA, Madison, WI. Karlen, D.L., E.G. Hurley, S.S. Andrews, M.D. Duffy, A.P. Mallarino, and C.A. Cambardella. 2002. Does soil quality show an economic benefit for long-term crop rotations? Agron. Abs. CD-ROM. ASA-CSSA-SSSA, Madison, WI. Klatt, J.G., A.P. Mallarino, J.L. Baker, J.C. Lorimor, R.S. Kanwar, and C.H. Pedersen. 2002. Phosphorus in soil and tile water as affected by fertilizer and manure applications to artificially drained Iowa fields. Agron. Abs. CD-ROM. ASA-CSSA-SSSA, Madison, WI. Mallarino, A.P. 2002. Using variable-rate technology and the phosphorus index for agronomic and environmental phosphorus management at a field level. Agron. Abs. CD-ROM. ASA-CSSA-SSSA, Madison, WI. Peters, J. B., K. A. Kelling, P. E. Speth and S. M. Offer. 2003. Forage yield and nutrient uptake as affected by soil pH and applied K. 8th International Symposium on Soil and Plant Analysis Abstracts. p. 189. Somerset West, South Africa Sawchik, J., A.P. Mallarino, M. Bermudez, and D.J. Wittry. 2002. Relating soil tests and within-field yield response to phosphorus and potassium using various sampling strategies. Agron. Abs. CD-ROM. ASA-CSSA-SSSA, Madison, WI. Warncke, D. D. 2003. Ameliorating internal black spot in Cranberry bean seed with boron application. 8th International Symposium on Soil and Plant Analysis Abstracts. p 167. Somerset West, South Africa Wittry, D.J., A.P. Mallarino, and P. Barbagelata. 2002. Ammonium acetate, Mehlich-3, and sodium tetraphenyl-boron soil potassium tests for corn and soybean. Agron. Abs. CD-ROM. ASA-CSSA-SSSA, Madison, WI.

Impact Statements

Improved methods and operations of soil testing and plant analysis laboratories in the North Central Region. This Region has a large concentration of commercial soil testing laboratories that utilize methodologies that have been previously proposed, evaluated and adopted as standard methods for soil analysis by this committee. This committee has impacted soil testing in states within the region and is regarded as an authoritative source for information on soil testing and plant analysis.
2. Improved fertilizer and lime recommendations based on soil and plant analytical results for specific crops under given soil conditions. Committee members are the key regional authority on how soil and plant tests are to be interpreted. Regional recommendations have been published and updated for two sub regions within the boundaries of NCR-13. The first sub region includes the states of North and South Dakota and Minnesota and the second includes Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan.
2. Disseminated information on soil tests, plant analysis and fertilizer and organic waste application recommendations. The committee published a revision of its most widely used publication on soil testing methods (NCR-13. 1998. Recommended chemical soil test procedures for the North Central Region, North Central Regional Publication no. 221. Missouri Agricultural Experiment Station). Regional recommendations have been published for two sub regions within the NCR-13 states.
3. Interacted with public and private soil testing and plant analysis laboratories and other regional committees to provide continued education and develop standardized procedures. In a joint effort with SERA-IEG-6 and NEC-67, a national Quality Assurance Manual and a national Methods of Manure Analysis Manual were published. The committee conducted Soil and Plant Analysts Workshops and local workshops on soil testing and plant analysis for commercial and public laboratories.

Date of Annual Report: 12/01/2005

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 09/13/2004 - 09/15/2004
Period the Report Covers: 06/01/2003 - 06/01/2004

Participants

Members Present:

Dr. Antonio Mallarino - Iowa State University
Dr. Ray Lamond - Kansas State University
Dr. Darryl Warncke - Michigan State University
Dr. George Rehm - University of Minnesota
Dr. Manjula Nathan - University of Missouri
Dr. Achim Dobermann - University of Nebraska
Dr. Jay Goos - North Dakota State University
Dr. Maurice Watson - Ohio State University
Dr. Ron Gelderman - South Dakota State University
John Peters - University of Wisconsin
Dr. Sylvie Brouder - Purdue University
Dr. Kevin McSweeney(Administrative Advisor) - University of Wisconsin

;

Guests:

Roger Eliason - University of Minnesota
Dr. Keith Reid - OMFRA-Ontario, Canada
Dr. Larry Cihacek - North Dakota State University
Dr. Robert Miller - NAPT

Brief Summary of Minutes

An unofficial meeting of NCR-13 was held during the 2003 ASA Meetings in Denver. The full NCR-13 meeting was held February 23-24, 2004 in Des Moines, IA.
Subcommittee and state reports and committee assignments were discussed (see Minutes).

The Seventeenth Soil / Plant Analysts Workshop was held in the afternoon and Wednesday morning. The next meeting will be in September as a joint meeting with the NEC 1007 and SERA 6 Work Groups. The meeting will be hosted by the NEC 1007 group in Newark, DE.

Minutes Attachment:

Attachment

Accomplishments

Subcommittee Reports: Extraction: A. Mallarino distributed a handout on the research he is doing to evaluate potassium testing in moist versus dry soils. He is working to develop calibration data for the moist soil potassium test. Drying temperature is important so labs need to take care. The mineralogy of the soil and the moisture history of the field are important factors in relation to the drying effect. He is also comparing potassium test results with the Mehlich III and Ammonium Acetate extractions. Subsoil K level versus surface soil K level could be an issue in relation to crop response. A handout by Rehm and Eliason regarding the effects of soil moisture and drying on K extraction was distributed. George has field calibration data that shows this to be primarily a problem on clayey soils. Maurice Watson distributed a handout dealing with soluble P studies. It summarizes the procedures being used for soils. Methodology for measuring water soluble P in manures is being considered. Ratios of soil or manure to water vary up to 1 to 100. There is a concern about having to filter the extract through a 45 micron filter. Organic Carbon: Dobermann distributed a handout. Three methods for measuring organic matter or total carbon were evaluated across seven university laboratories (NE, MN, OH, SD, ND, WI, MI). The standard soil testing method, LOI using 10-mesh samples, allowed predicting soil C measured on 100-mesh samples with a CN analyzer with an average prediction error of 0.4 %C. Prediction accuracy was 0.3 %C for C analysis conducted on 10-mesh samples. In general, fine-milling of soil for C analysis greatly improved the repeatability of C analysis and seems essential for quantifying soil carbon stocks. It remains questionable whether the simple LOI method could be used for monitoring small changes in soil C over time as part of possible carbon trading contracts. Larry Cihacek also distributed a report where he evaluated the effect of soil sample mesh size on carbon analysis. Variability was reduced as the particle size was reduced. Watson suggested that we include the various carbon methods in the next edition of NCR publication 221. QA/QC: The QA/QC manual, which is a joint effort of the NAPT committee and several regional soil test work groups, is coming together. Just waiting on two chapters. Maurice indicated that Paul Chu (A&L labs) is against putting high QA/QC guidelines because of concern about government enforcement. Maurice also indicated that Charlie Focht (Nebraska Dept. of Ag) responded that the QA/QC manual is a general guidelines document. A suggestion was made to include in the document the acceptable variation from the guidelines. Interstate: Warncke reported on a survey of labs, both private and public, regarding the use of the SMP buffer and the concern for disposal of waste. In general, there seems to be more concern about disposal of the SMP buffer waste in the public labs than in the private labs, although some labs are required to collect waste for appropriate disposal. Waste: Peters distributed a handout on the results of a survey. This Subcommittee recently conducted a survey of NCR-13 member states as well as Ontario to gather information on parameters used to estimate nutrient availability from animal manure. Ideally, a laboratory that is testing manure should provide nutrient availability estimates from the state in which the manure is to be spread. This may require that laboratories have several optional reports available if they are testing manure in more than one state. In all cases, the total nutrient content should be provided on all reports. The web based publication A3769, Recommended Methods of Manure Analysis (www1.uwex.edu/ces/pubs/pdf/A3769.pdf) was released in February, 2003. No revisions have been made to the original version as of this time. The evaluation of various potential laboratory measurements of water soluble P is ongoing at several locations in the region as well as in other work groups. The Waste Subcommittee will evaluate these methods to determine if one or more should be added to the methods manual. There was a discussion about availability during the year of application versus long term buildup. McSweeney raised a question about the appropriateness of the name Waste for the committee title. Recommendations: Antonio distributed a handout about On-Farm Calibration. This approach is being used to measure soil K levels and corn grain yields. GPSed cells 60 ft x 100 -150 ft are being used. It requires lots of time. The scale of doing operations (sampling, yield, etc) is a big issue. Achim commented that we need to consider farmer in-field response information versus research to determine response curves. Antonio commented that with farm scale calibration work field variability is a concern. Keith commented that guidelines need to be set for on-farm strip calibration. Web-Site: Funding is a major issue for North Central regional committees to develop and maintain a website. Funding is needed before we can proceed. Advisor McSweeny commented that funding must be done creatively. Watson suggested that all Regional Committee Web pages should be linked through USDA. McSweeney indicated through NIMMS is a possibility. It was agreed that we need to continue to explore possibilities for establishing a website. It was suggested to check with the Soil and Plant Analysis Council. Sampling: Sylvie distributed a handout. Sampling depth is a cause of variability. Tillage causes stratification and contributes to the variation. What is the appropriate depth of sampling? Differences between states need to be addressed. State Reports: See Minutes of the meeting. NAPT: Bob Miller reported that 162 labs in the United States and Canada are participated in NAPT programs in 2003. Three new labs joined in 2004. The Illinois N test was added and run by 7 labs. Reproducibility was good. Acid soils and low K soils are needed for the program. Jerry Lemunyon, National Agronomist with the NRCS, and Bob Miller were asked to join the NCR-13 group to discuss the new Proficiency Assessment Program (PAP) being implemented by the NAPT program with the encouragement of the NRCS. Background: Soil sampling and testing is part of the national NRCS 590 standard. There are 3 ways labs can be approved for NRCS/FSA programs. 1) participate in a State certification program, 2) participate in the NAPT program, and 3) labs are accepted by Land Grant Universities (a hold over from the SCS program). Few states are doing 1 and 3. Some individuals in certain western areas expressed concern about the quality of some soil testing operations. Some labs consistently test low on blind samples. Also, there is concern about the farmers and consultants shopping for low soil test values. NRCS came to the NAPT committee to help in checking lab proficiency and reliability. The NAPT committee has agreed to start a trial program in Western United States. This could potentially involve 45 NAPT labs, 30 are expected to participate. Protocol: Surrogate clients who have sent samples to the lab within the past 6 months will be used to send in soil samples. If a lab fails a retest will be done. If a lab fails a second time they will be provided a list of consultants who can help them. Then they will be given a third test. A group of soil test peers will be needed. Labs will need to report methods on or with the report. Labs will be requested to run pH, OM, P and K. Cost will be $1450 to participate. Antonio suggested that NRCS should be doing the Certification. He also expressed a concern that NAPT doesnt become to be viewed as an arm of NRCS and undermine the current trust and support for the NAPT program. Response was that NAPT is providing a service for the NRCS as a client. Generally, big labs support the PAP and view it as part of the cost of doing business, but for small labs the cost may be prohibitive. The general consensus of the NCR 13 Committee is to support the pilot PAP program in the western U.S., but urges the NAPT to use care as it proceeds.

Publications

Journal papers: Cassman, K.G., A. Dobermann, D.T. Walters, and H.S. Yang. 2003. Meeting cereal demand while protecting natural resources and improving environmental quality. Annu. Rev. Environ. Resour. 28, 315-358. Changa, C., Watson, M. E., Michel Jr, F. C., Hoitink, H. A., and Wang, P. 2003. Assessment of the Reliability of the Solvita® Maturity Test for Composted Manures. Compost Science & Util. 11. Changa, C. M., Wang, P., Watson, M. E., Hoitink, H. A., and Michel Jr, F. C. 2003. Assessment of the Reliability of a Commercial Maturity Test Kit for Composted Manures. Compost Science & Utilization. 11(2):125-143. Dobermann, A., Ping, J.L., V.I. Adamchuk, G.C. Simbahan, and R.B. Ferguson. 2003. Classification of yield variability for site-specific management. Agron. J. 95, 1105-1120. Dobermann, A., and J.L. Ping. 2004. Geostatistical integration of yield monitor data and remote sensing improves yield maps. Agron. J. 96, 285-297. Franzen, D.W., J.H. OBarr, and R.K. Zollinger. 2003. Interaction of a foliar application of iron HEDTA and three postemergence broadleaf herbicides with soybeans stressed from chlorosis. J. Plant Nutr. 26:2365-2374. Franzen, D.W., J. H. OBarr, and R.K. Zollinger. 2004. Influence of certain postemergence broadleaf herbicides on soybean stressed from iron deficiency chlorosis. Agron. J. 1357-1363. Hopkins, D.G. and D.W. Franzen. 2003. Argillic horizons in stratified drift: Luverne end moraine, eastern North Dakota. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. J. 67:1790-1796. Ping, J.L., and A. Dobermann. 2003. Creating spatially contiguous yield classes for site-specific management. Agron. J. 95: 1121-1131. Simbahan, G.C., A. Dobermann, and J.L. Ping. 2004. Screening yield monitor data improves grain yield maps. Agron. J. 96, 1091-1102. Wang, P., Changa, C., Watson, M. E., Dick, W. A., Chen, Y., and Hoitink, H. A. 2003. Maturing Indices for Composted Dairy and Swine Manures. Soil Biology & Biochemistry. Yang, H.S., A. Dobermann, J.L. Lindquist, D.T. Walters, T.J. Arkebauer, and K.G. Cassman. 2004. Hybrid-Maize - a maize simulation model that combines two crop modeling approaches. Field Crops Res. 87, 131-154. Book chapters, conference proceedings & selected extension publications: Adamchuk, V.I., A. Dobermann, and J.L. Ping. 2004. Listening to the story told by yield maps. Extension Circular 04-704, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE. http://ianrpubs.unl.edu/fieldcrops/ec704.pdf Adamchuk, V.I., E. Lund, A. Dobermann, M.T. Morgan, 2003. On-the-go mapping of soil properties using ion-selective electrodes. p. 27-33. In: Stafford, J.V., Werner, A. (ed.), Precision agriculture. Wageningen Academic Publishers, Wageningen. Adamchuk, V.I., C. Wang, D.B. Marx, R.K. Perrin, and A. Dobermann. 2004. Assessment of soil mapping value - potential profitability (Part II). In Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Precision Agriculture and Other Resource Management, July 25-28, 2004, Bloomington, MN. CD-ROM. ASA, CSSA,S SSA, Madison,WI [CD-ROM]. Dobermann, A., and K.G. Cassman. 2004. Environmental dimensions of fertilizer N: What can be done to increase nitrogen use efficiency and ensure global food security? p. 261-278. In A.R. Mosier et al. (ed.) Agriculture and the nitrogen cycle: assessing the impacts of fertilizer use on food production and the environment. SCOPE 65. Island Press, Washington,D.C. Dobermann, A., J.L. Ping, G.C. Simbahan, V.I. Adamchuk, 2003. Processing of yield map data for delineating yield zones. p. 177-185. In: Stafford, J.V., Werner, A. (ed.), Precision agriculture. Wageningen Academic Publishers, Wageningen. Dobermann, A., and H.S. Yang. 2004. In-season prediction of attainable maize yield using the Hybrid-Maize model. p. 235-236. In S.-V. Jacobsen et al. (ed.) VIII ESA Congress: European Agriculture in a Global Context. The Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University, Copenhagen. Dobermann, A., B.S. Blackmore, S.E. Cook, and V.I. Adamchuk. 2004. Precision farming: challenges and future directions. In T. Fischer et al. (ed.) New directions for a diverse planet: Proceedings of the 4th International Crop Science Congress, Brisbane, Australia, 26 September 1 October 2004 [CD-ROM]. The Regional Institute Ltd, Gosford, NSW. Dobermann, A., T. Arkebauer, K.G. Cassman, R.A. Drijber, J.L. Lindquist, J.E. Specht, D.T. Walters, H. Yang, D. Miller, D.L. Binder, G. Teichmeier, R.B. Ferguson, and C.S. Wortmann. 2003. Understanding corn yield potential in different environments. p. 67-82. In L.S. Murphy (ed.) Fluid focus: the third decade. Proceedings of the 2003 Fluid Forum, Vol. 20. Fluid Fertilizer Foundation, Manhattan, KS. Dobermann, A. and C.A. Shapiro. 2004. Setting a realistic corn yield goal. NebGuide G79-481-A. University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE. http://ianrpubs.unl.edu/fieldcrops/g481.htm Ferguson, R.B., A. Dobermann, C.S. Wortmann, D.T. Walters, C.A. Shapiro, D. Tarkalson, and D.D. Baltensperger. 2004. Developing recommendations for site-specific nitrogen management of irrigated maize. In Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Precision Agriculture and Other Resource Management, July 25-28, 2004, Bloomington, MN. CD-ROM. ASA, CSSA, SSSA, Madison, WI [CD-ROM]. Ferguson, R.B., Shapiro, C.A., Dobermann, A., Wortmann, C.S., 2003. Fertilizer recommendations for soybean. NebGuide G87-859-A. University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE. Franzen, D.W. and N. Peterson. 2003. Land and Homesite judging contest. NDSU 4-H. Franzen, D. 2003. Fertilizing sugarbeet. SF-714 (revised). Franzen, D. 2003. Managing saline soils in North Dakota SF-1087 (revised). Franzen,D. 2003. North Dakota Soil and Fertilizer Handbook. EB-65. 90 p. Franzen, D.W. and T. Nanna. 2004. Delineating N management zones. In Proceedings of the 7th International Precision Agriculture Conference, July 26-28, 2004, Minneapolis, MN. Univ. of MN, St. Paul. Franzen, D.W., N. Cattanach, J. Giles, and M. Khan. 2003. Improvements in sugarbeet growth with amendments in sandy soils with a history of poor sugarbeet performance. p. 106-113. In 2002 Sugarbeet Research and Extension Reports. Vol. 32. Sugarbeet Research and Education Board of Minnesota and North Dakota. Franzen, D.W. and T. Nanna. 2003. Comparison of nitrogen management zone delineation methods. p. 114-118. In Proceedings North Central Extension-Industry Soil Fertility Conference, Nov. 19-20, 2004, Des Moines, IA. Potash & Phosphate Institute, Brookings, SD. Gao, G. Y., Watson, M. E., Boggs, J. F., and Chatfield, J. A. 2003. Choosing Soil Testing Labs. In: Chatfield, J. A., Boggs, J. F., Draper, E. A., and Bennett, P. J. Ornamental Plants Annual Reports and Research Reviews 2002. OARDC Special Circular 189 p. 151-156. http://ohioline.osu.edu/sc189/sc189_112.html. Gelderman, R. 2003. Soil and Water Research. Plant Science Pamphlet no. 9. Annual Progress Report. Ag.Expt.Sta. SDSU, Brookings, SD. Kelling, K. A., J. B. Peters and P. E. Speth. 2003. "Effect of Soil pH and Alfalfa Stand Density on Alfalfa Nitrogen Credits." Proceedings of the 2003 Wisconsin Fertilizer, Aglime and Pest Management Conference. p. 333-341. Kelling, K. A. and J. B. Peters. 2004. "The Advisability of Using Cation Balance as a Basis for Fertilizer Recommendations." Proceedings of the 2004 Wisconsin Fertilizer, Aglime and Pest Management Conference. p. 366-371. Kelling, K. A. M. Myers and J. B. Peters. 2004. "What Ignoring Lime Can do to Corn and Soybeans." Proceedings of the 2004 Wisconsin Fertilizer, Aglime and Pest Management Conference. p. 411-414. Motavalli, P.P., G. Stevens, P. Scharf and M. Nathan. 2003. Color instructional poster (16.5" x 21.5") for "Soil Nutrient Deficiencies & Toxicities in Missouri Crops". Nanna, T. and D.W. Franzen. 2003. A weighted classified method for nitrogen zone delineation. p. 177-184. In Proceedings North Central Extension-Industry Soil Fertility Conference, Nov. 19-20, 2004, Des Moines, IA. Potash & Phosphate Institute, Brookings, SD. Nathan, M. 2003. Soil Testing and Plant Diagnostic Services. Integrated Pest and Crop Management Newsletter. Vol. 13: No. 4. Nathan, M. and B. Freesenberg. 2003. Soil Testing for Lawns. MU Guide G6954. University of Missouri Extension Publications. Nelson, K.A., P.P. Motavalli, and M. Nathan. 2004. The impact of foliar potassium fertilizer source on crop response and weed control in a no-till weed and feed glyphosate-resistant soybean production system. pp. 149-155. Vol. 21. Proceedings of the 2004 Fluid Forum, Scottsdale, AZ. Peters, J. S., Combs, B., Hoskins, J., Jarman, J., Kovar, M., Watson, M. E., and Wolf, N. 2003. Recommended Methods of Manure Analysis. http://www1.uwex.edu/ces/pubs/pdf/A3769.pdf. Peters, J. B., editor. Recommended Methods of Manure Analysis. Feb. 2003. UW Ext. Publication A3769 (web based), Cooperative Extension Publishing Operations, Madison, WI. http://uwlab.soils.wisc.edu/pubs/A3769.pdf Peters, J. B., K. A. Kelling, and S. M. Offer. 2003. "Minerals in Forages: Plant Considerations." Proceedings of the Four-State Forage Conference. MWPS-4SD15, Midwest Plan Service, Iowa State University. p. 31-36. Peters, J. B., editor. 2004. Wisconsin Procedures for Soil Testing, Plant Analysis and Feed & Forage Analysis. Soil Science Department, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Extension-Madison. http://uwlab.soils.wisc.edu/procedures.htm Peters, J. B., and S. M. Offer. 2004. "Crop and Soil Responses to Fibrous Paper Mill Sludge." Proceedings of the 2004 Wisconsin Fertilizer, Aglime and Pest Management Conference. p. 359-365. Ping, J.L., and A. Dobermann. 2004. Utilizing fine-scale secondary information for improving maps of soil attributes. In Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Precision Agriculture and Other Resource Management, July 25-28, 2004, Bloomington, MN. CD-ROM. ASA, CSSA, SSSA, Madison, WI [CD-ROM]. Scharf, P., and M. Nathan. 2003. Watch for unusual soil test potassium results this fall. Integrated Pest and Crop Management Newsletter. Vol. 13: No. 23. Thompson, W. H., Millner, P., Leege, P. B., and Watson, M. E. 2003. Test Methods for the Examination of Composting and Compost. U. S. Composting Council. http://www.tmecc.org/tmecc/. Walters, D.T., A. Dobermann, K.G. Cassman, R.A. Drijber, J.L. Lindquist, J.E. Specht, and H.S. Yang. 2004. Changes in nitrogen use efficiency and soil quality after five years of managing for high yield corn and soybean. In Proc. of the 34st North-Central Industry-Extension Soil Fertility Conference, November 17-18, 2004, Des Moines, IA. Potash & Phosphate Institute, Brookings, SD.

Impact Statements

Improved methods and operations of soil testing and plant analysis laboratories in the North Central Region.
Improved fertilizer and lime recommendations based on soil and plant analytical results for specific crops under given soil conditions.
Disseminated information on soil tests, plant analysis and fertilizer and organic waste application recommendations.
Interacted with public and private soil testing and plant analysis laboratories and other regional committees to provide continued education and develop standardized procedures.

Date of Annual Report: 12/06/2005

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 11/15/2005 - 11/16/2005
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2004 - 10/01/2005

Participants

Members Present:

Dr. Antonio Mallarino - Iowa State University
Dr. Darryl Warncke - Michigan State University
Dr. George Rehm - University of Minnesota
Dr. Manjula Nathan - University of Missouri
Dr. Jay Goos - North Dakota State University
Dr. Maurice Watson - Ohio State University
John Peters - University of Wisconsin
Ann Wolf - Pennsylvania State University

;

Guests:

Jon Dahl - Michigan State University
Keith Reid - OMFRA-Ontario, Canada
Mike Hubbs - USDA-NRCS
Don Hornack - Oregon

Brief Summary of Minutes

The NEC 1007 soil testing work group hosted a joint meeting with the NCR 13 and the SERA 6 soil testing work groups. The meeting was held in the Howard Johnson Motel near the University of Delaware in Newark, Delaware. State and subcommittee reports were presented and discussed.

A. Dobermann was confirmed as chair (2004-2006), D. Warncke as Chair Elect (to be Chair 2006-2008), and S. Brouder as Secretary (to be Chair Elect in 2006-2008, and Chair in 2008-2010). The next NCR 13 meeting will be in conjunction with the North Central Extension Industry meeting in November, 2005. Committee Assignments remain the same as listed in the February, 2004 meeting minutes. The Four State Meeting (Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin) will be held February 24 and 25.

Accomplishments

Subcommittee Reports: QA/QC: The manuscript on QA/QC protocol is complete and has been sent to Tony Provin at Texas A & M for publication. This manual has been a cooperative effort of the NAPT Committee and the various regional Soil Test Working Groups. Education: The Seventeenth Soil Plant Analysts Workshop was held on February 24 and 25 in Des Moines, Iowa. Thirteen speakers made 15 presentations. Attendance was 70. Income was $4,058.10. Expenses were $4,800.88. A balance of $800 was carried over from the 16th Workshop. This leaves a balance of $57.22 in the NCR 13 Workshop account with the Soil and Plant Council. Evaluations of the Workshop were quite positive. By holding the Workshop in February we reached more of the actual soil testing lab people than when it was held in November. Interstate: Darryl distributed copies of the new MSU Nutrient recommendation bulletin (E 2904) which uses the Tri-State (Michigan, Ohio, Indiana) format. Rehm reported that Minnesota and the Dakotas have updated their Tri-State recommendation publication. There is reasonable uniformity of N recommendations for corn across Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin. In a recent meeting there was agreement on new concept, based on soil productivity, for N recommendations. Waste: The evaluation of various potential laboratory measurements of water soluble P is ongoing at several locations in the region as well as in other work groups. Currently, there are two primary methods for analyzing manure water extractable P (WEP). One developed in PA by Pete Kleinman of the USDA-ARS with assistance from others Andrew Sharpley, Doug Beegle and Ann Wolf) and one developed in Arkansas by Phil Moore. The methods vary in the solids:solution ratio (1:10 for the AK method, 1:200 for the PA method) and in sampling basis (wet weight for AK, dry weight for PA). There are some concerns/issues with both methods. Concern with the AK method is that the solids (dry):solution ratio varies and impacts the ability of this test to predict runoff P over a wide range of manures. Concern with the PA method is that it is difficult to take a large enough sample size for manures with high variability (e.g. poultry manures with large wood chips) and get a representative sample. Much work has been performed on the PA method to evaluate variability and factors impacting the analysis. One of the SERA-17 working groups will be continuing the work this year to further look at solid:solution ratio and its impact on estimates of dissolved reactive P as well as other factors impacting WEP measurement (ICP vs. color, shaker type, etc.). The goal is to complete this work by the SERA-17 meeting next year. The Waste Subcommittee will evaluate these methods to determine if one or more should be added to the methods manual. The URL for the web based publication A3769, Recommended Methods of Manure Analysis (http://uwlab.soils.wisc.edu/pubs/A3769.pdf) was changed this past spring due to problems with the previous host site. No revisions have been made to the original version of the manual as of this time. State Reports: See Minutes.

Publications

Journal papers: Adamchuk, V.I., E. Lund, B. Sethuramasamyraja, M.T. Morgan, A. Dobermann, and D.B. Marx. 2005. Direct measurement of soil chemical properties on-the-go using ion-selective electrodes. Computers and Electronics in Agriculture 48, 272-294. Agehara, S. and D. D. Warncke. 2005. Soil moisture and temperature effects on nitrogen release from organic nitrogen sources. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. J. 69: 1844-1855. Franzen, D.W. 2004. Delineating nitrogen management zones in a sugarbeet rotation using remote sensing A review. Journal of Sugar Beet Research 41:47-60. Franzen, D.W., J. F. Giles, L.J. Reitmeier, A.J. Hapka, N.R. Cattanach, and A.C. Cattanach. 2004. Use of whole field research to change farm management practices. J. Nat. Resour. Life Sci. Educ. 33:161-165. Nelson, K. A., Motavalli, P. P., and M. Nathan. 2005. Response to No-Till Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] to Timing of Preplant and Foliar Potassium Applications in a Claypan Soil. Agron. J. 97:832- 838. Peters, J. B., K. A. Kelling, P. E. Speth and S. M. Offer. 2005. Alfalfa Yield and Nutrient Uptake as Affected by pH and Applied K. Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis. 36:583-596. Ping, J.L. and A. Dobermann. 2005. Processing of yield map data. Precision Agric. 6, 193-212. Rehm,G.W.,and J.A. Lamb. 2004. Crop yield and soil test potassium in a ridge-till planting system as influenced by rate and frequency of deep banded potassium. Soil Sci. Soc Amer J. 68:339-345. Schmitt, M.A., G.W. Randall,J.A. Lamb and G.W. Rehm. The University of Minnesota Supplemental Fertilizer NitrogenWorksheet. J of Extension. www.joe.org/joe/2005june/tt4.shtml Verma, S.B., A. Dobermann, K.G. Cassman, D.T. Walters, J.M.H. Knops, T.J. Arkebauer, A.E. Suyker, G.G. Burba, B. Amos, H.S. Yang, D. Ginting, K.G. Hubbard, A.A. Gitelson, and E.A. Walter-Shea. 2005. Annual carbon dioxide exchange in irrigated and rainfed maize-based agroecosystems. Agricultural and Forest Meteorology 131, 77-96. Book chapters, conference proceedings & selected extension publications: Dobermann, A., D.T. Walters, F. Legoretta, T.J. Arkebauer, K.G. Cassman, R.A. Drijber, J.L. Lindquist, J.E. Specht, and H.S. Yang. 2005. Unlocking the secrets of carbon and nitrogen cycling in continuous corn and corn-soybean systems. In L.S. Murphy (ed.) Proc. 2005 Fluid Forum, Vol. 22 [CD-ROM]. Fluid Fertilizer Foundation, Manhattan, KS. Fairhurst, T., A. Dobermann, and C. Witt. 2005. Fertilizer Chooser [online]. Available at soilfertility.unl.edu, www.seap.sg, and www.irri.org/science/software/fertchooser.asp (accessed Sep 1, 2005). University of Nebraska-Lincoln, PPPI/PPIC and IPI, IRRI, Lincoln,NE, Singapore, Los Banos (Philippines). Franzen, D.W. 2004. North Dakota fertilizer tables and equations. SF-882 (revised). Franzen, D.W. 2004. Fertilizing flax. SF-717 (revised). Franzen, D.W., M. Anfirud, and P. Carson. 2005. Sugarbeet rooting depth. p. 105-108. In 2004 Sugarbeet Research and Extension Reports. Vol. 35. Sugarbeet Res. and Ed. Bd. of MN and ND. Franzen, D.W., G. Wagner, and A. Sims. 2004. Application of a ground-based sensor to determine N credits for sugarbeet. p. 119-123. In 2004 Sugarbeet Research and Extension Reports. Vol. 34. Sugarbeet Res. and Ed. Bd. of MN and ND. Franzen, D.W. 2004. Flax fertility recommendation changes in North Dakota. p. 144-150. In Proceedings North Central Extension-Industry Soil Fertility Conference, Nov. 17-18, 2004, Des Moines, IA. Potash & Phosphate Institute, Brookings, SD. Gelderman, R, J. Gerwing, and R. Burrows. 2005. Fertilizing Gardens in South Dakota. B744. Ag. and Biol. Sciences and Coop. Ext. Ser., Brookings, SD. Gelderman, R, K. Reitsma, and J. Gerwing. 2005. Recommended Soil Sampling Methods for South Dakota. SD Dept. of Agric. and SDSU Coop. Ext. Ser., Brookings, SD. Gelderman, R. 2004. Soil and Water Research. Plant Science Pamphlet no. 21. Annual Progress Report. Ag.Expt.Sta. SDSU, Brookings, SD Gerwing, J, and R. Gelderman. 2005. Fertilizer Recommendations Guide. EC750. Coop. Ext. Ser. SDSU, Brookings, SD. Motavalli, P.P., K. Nelson, G. Stevens, A. Kendig, M. Nathan, and D. Dunn. 2004. Selection of foliar-applied potassium fertilizer sources and rates of application to optimize soybean response and weed control with glyphosate in a weed and feed management system. pp. 11-12. 2004 Field Day Report of the Greenley Memorial Research Center. University of Missouri, Novelty, Missouri. Nathan, M. 2005. Reagents and Standards. Chapter 5. In. Quality Assurance and Quality Control Procedure Manual for Soil Testing Labs. Ed. Maurice Watson. North American Proficiency Testing. SSSA Special Publication. In print. Nathan, M., 2005. Steps in Fertilizing Garden Soil: Vegetables and Annual Flowers. MU Guide G 6950. University of Missouri Extension Publications. Nathan, M. 2004. Soil Testing for Lawns & Gardens Spring is the Time to Test Your Soils Missouri Environment and Garden. Vol.10: NO 3. Nathan, M.. 2004. Chapters: (i) Soils; (ii) Plant Nutrition; (iii) Soil Testing. In: Master Gardner Core Manual, University of Missouri Extension Publication.. Nathan, M. 2004. Soil Testing for Better Lawns and Gardens. Missouri Environment and Garden. Volume 10: No 9. Peters, J. B. 2004. Trends in Feed and Manure Phosphorus. New Horizons in Soil Science, No. 3-2004, Department of Soil Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI. Peters, J. B., K. A. Kelling, and D. J. Undersander. 2004. "Evaluation of Several Alfalfa Varieties for Low Soil pH Tolerance." Proceedings of the 6th International Symposium on Plant-Soil Interactions at Low Soil pH. Sendai, Japan. Peters, J. B., P. E. Speth, K. A. Kelling, and R. Borges. 2005. "Effect of Soil pH on Soybean Yield." Proceedings of the 2005 Wisconsin Fertilizer, Aglime and Pest Management Conference. p. 134-138. Warncke, D. D. 2004. Effects of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium on carrot biomass. In (ed. Warncke) Cops Annual Research Report No. 29. AES, Mich. State Univ., East Lansing, MI Watson, M. E. 2004. Published an article entitled Sampling for Fall Soil Testing for The Ohio State University Extension Crop Observation and Recommendation Network. Watson, M. E. 2005. Authored an article entitled END OF SEASON CORNSTALK NITRATE for the electronic C.O.R.N. newsletter. Watson, M. E. 2005. Co-authored an article entitled Importance of Maintaining Optimum pH for Crop Production for the electronic C.O.R.N. newsletter. Watson, M. E. 2005. Joint published an article entitled Applying Nitrogen to Young Corn in the OSU C.O.R.N. electronic newsletter. Watson, M. E. 2005. Co-authored an article entitled Fall Soil Sampling for Next Years Crop for the electronic C.O.R.N. newsletter. Yang, H.S., A. Dobermann, K.G. Cassman, and D.T. Walters. 2005. Hybrid-Maize. A simulation model for corn growth and yield. Nebraska Cooperative Extension CD 9 [online and CD-ROM]. Available at hybridmaize.unl.edu (accessed Sep 1, 2005). University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE

Impact Statements

Improved methods and operations of soil testing and plant analysis laboratories in the North Central Region.
Improved fertilizer and lime recommendations based on soil and plant analytical results for specific crops under given soil conditions.
Disseminated information on soil tests, plant analysis and fertilizer and organic waste application recommendations.
Interacted with public and private soil testing and plant analysis laboratories and other regional committees to provide continued education and develop standardized procedures.