WERA_OLD103: Nutrient Management and Water Quality

(Multistate Research Coordinating Committee and Information Exchange Group)

Status: Inactive/Terminating

Project Menu

SAES-422 Reports

Annual/Termination Reports:

[10/25/2002] [10/31/2002] [11/25/2003] [04/05/2004] [09/21/2005] [04/26/2006]

Date of Annual Report: 10/25/2002

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 03/07/2001 - 03/08/2001
Period the Report Covers: 04/01/2000 - 03/01/2001

Participants

Participants Attachment:

Attachment

Brief Summary of Minutes

Minutes Attachment:

Attachment

Accomplishments

The Western Nutrient Management Conference held March 8-9, 2001 attracted over 120 attendees from throughout the Western Region. The conference included a day and a half of technical presentations and a poster session. Printed proceedings were provided to all attendees and is now available online at http://www.css.orst.edu/nm. An onion nutrient management guide was published cooperatively by Oregon, Washington and Idaho Cooperative Extension with technical review from WCC-103. It is available on-line at eesc.orst.edu in HTML and PDF format. An annual meeting was held to share research and Extension projects that are in progress in the Western Region. State-by-state highlights of nutrient management research: Gavlak/Alaska: Work in Alaska continues to focus on forage S fertility, C cycling under arctic conditions, alternative crop production, N fixation of perennial legumes, dairy waste management, and no-till forage stand renovation (SARE grant). Dairy waste research will conclude this summer with experiments on dairy manure source, application rates and timing on perennial grass hay stands and the residual effects of similar treatments on annual grass yield and nutrient uptake. Arizona/Thompson: A wide variety of crops are grown in Arizona, including cotton, alfalfa, and durum wheat, which occupy the largest acreages in the state. Other important crops include lettuce, broccoli, citrus, melons, and a variety of other crops. Research is currently addressing nutrient management needs for a number of these crops. For example, several studies are completed or in progress focusing on N management for citrus. Experiments at the University of Arizona Citrus Agricultural Center near Phoenix on micro sprinkler-irrigated citrus suggest that recommended N rates can be significantly reduced for micro sprinkler-irrigated citrus. We found no response to N by newly planted navel oranges in their first two years of growth. Experiments on mature grapefruit have also shown that N rates for 5 to 9 year old grapefruit can be reduced to 0.3 to 0.7 lb N/tree/year, depending on age. Westfall/Colorado: The cost/intensity of grid soil sampling necessary to identify the soil variability to develop accurate variable-rate technology (VRT) fertilizer maps is prohibitive for implementation of precision agriculture in most agronomic crops. Therefore, we have conducted research for three years to determine if production level management zones based on soil color from an aerial photograph, topography and the framers‘ management experience is an effective alternative to grid sampling. We have found that zone sampling is effective in identifying suites of soils that have different production potential. Yield levels are also identified by this method. In cases where zones are not accurately identified, we have found that the inclusion of electrical conductance data collected with a conductivity meter is effective in making finer zone distinctions and to separate inclusions of one zone in another that may not be identifiable using our former method. Brown/Idaho: Phosphorus placement for fall bedded and fumigated onions. Metam sodium (Vapam) fall fumigated onion beds reduce P availability in the spring planted crop, especially in low organic matter soils with lime. Banded P has potential for reducing P in surface runoff as well as increasing P utilization by onions. A three-year field study showed no advantages to banded P over broadcast P application. Wheat following these onions showed residual fumigation effects on available P over a year later. Removal of P with a double crop forage system. An annual double crop forage system consisting of fall planted small grains taken as forage at the late boot stage in spring and followed by a normal season silage corn crop has potential for increasing the rate of P removal and soil P draw down in sites enriched excessively with animal wastes. Annual P removal has approached 60 lb per acre. Christensen, Hart, Sullivan/Oregon. We worked cooperatively with Washington State University (Stevens) and NRCS in the two states to adapt the generic national P Index for use in the Pacific Northwest. Separate Indexes were developed for cropping systems west and east of the Cascades. The west of the Cascades Index focuses on reducing the risk of P transport via winter runoff and erosion events. The east of the Cascades Index focuses more heavily on P transport associated with irrigation. The Pre-sidedress Soil Nitrate Test (PSNT) is successfully used for silage and grain corn production in western Oregon. Sweet corn acreage exceeds acreage of silage or grain corn in western Oregon. We desired to know if the PSNT could be used for predicting processing sweet corn sidedress N need. For sweet corn, when the PSNT from the surface foot of soil plus sidedress N was 200 kg/ha or more, no economic advantage was found for additional fertilizer N. When the PSNT and sidedress N was less than 150 kg/ha, additional N always increased grower return. If the PSNT plus sidedress N was between 150 and 200 kg/ha, half the sites produced a return from additional N and half did not. In addition to the traditional use of the PSNT, which is to separate responsive from non-responsive sites, we were able to calibrate sidedress N for processing sweet corn. Amacher, Kotuby-Amacher/Utah. Two USGS open-file reports from the USGS Western U.S. Phosphate Project are now ready for release. One report summarizes selenium and other trace element concentrations in waste rock dump soils and undisturbed soils developed over phosphatic shale deposits (pre-mining baseline data), presents a model for Se mobilization from phosphatic shale, and proposes remediation strategies to minimize leaching and bioaccumulation of Se from waste rock dumps. The other report summarizes Se uptake by native and non-native plant species growing on a waste rock dump, a wetland below the dump, a reference wetland, and on native soils developed over phosphatic shale in a lease area. USU Analytical Labs continue to operate on a cost-basis. We are hoping to do more research on methods. We are now doing manure analysis and offering new packages of soil analyses in association with CAFO efforts - through R. Koenig‘s insistence. We continue our work with the NAPT, Compost Analysis Program, and the US Golf Association Proficiency Testing Programs. Stevens, R.G, Davenport/Washington: A two year project looking at the effect of metal rates and sources on crop productivity and metal uptake in wheat and potatoes in cooperation with Bill Pan, Shiou Kuo and Jim Harsh is being finalized. See proceedings of WCC-103 meeting, March 2001. Site Specific Crop Management as a Strategy for Reducing Nitrate Leaching Potential in the Columbia Plateau. The project goal is to evaluate and compare conventional and site specific fertilizer management strategies for nutrient management and develop recommendations for fertilizer management approaches to reduce the potential for nitrate leaching in irrigated row crop rotations. Stevens, B/Wyoming: Current soil fertility research projects focus on K source, rate, and application timing (alfalfa), variety, N rate and K fertilization (malting barley), micronutrients and sulfur (sugar beet), and N management options including timing, source and placement.(dry bean). Westermann/USDA-ARS, Idaho: Active research projects include:1)Phosphorus in rainfall simulated runoff on calcareous soils, 2)Phosphorus in irrigation runoff vs. soil P availabilities & P sources, 3) Phosphorus leaching losses and processes, 4)Modeling sediment and P losses in surface, 5)Genetic control on Zn uptake and response in beans

Publications

Proceedings of the Western Nutrient Management. Conference, Vol. 4. Mar 8-9, 2001. Salt Lake City, UT. Potash and Phosphate Institute, Brookings, SD. Available online at: http://www.css.orst.edu/nm/WCC103/WNM_2001_Conf.htm

Impact Statements

The Western Nutrient Management Conference provided an opportunity for exchanging nutrient correlation/calibration data across state boundaries, and for coordinating Western Region research/educational projects. Current technical information was provided to assist nutrient management professionals in providing guidance to their clientele.

Date of Annual Report: 10/31/2002

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 03/14/2002 - 03/15/2002
Period the Report Covers: 03/01/2001 - 03/01/2002

Participants

Participants Attachment:

Attachment

Brief Summary of Minutes

Minutes Attachment:

Attachment

Accomplishments

The focus of the WCC-103 project annual meeting was to plan for the next Western Nutrient Management Conference. The Conference is scheduled for March 6-7, 2003 in Salt Lake City, UT. This annual conference is the major activity of WCC-103, bringing together university researchers, Extension specialists/agents, private industry agronomists, and nutrient management planners from NRCS and other agencies. The conference will include a day and a half of technical presentations and a poster session. Printed conference proceedings will be provided to all registered attendees, and will also be available online at http://www.css.orst.edu/nm/WCC103/wcc103.htm. The Western States Laboratory Plant, Soil and Water Analysis Manual is undergoing final editing and is expected to be printed and distributed through the North American Proficiency Testing program (Bob Miller) in 2002. Each of the analytical methods in the manual will also be available online in PDF format at the WCC-103 website, http://www.css.orst.edu/nm/WCC103/wcc103.htm. The Manual is the 2nd revision of an earlier Western Region Publication 125, "Plant, Soil and Water Reference Methods for the Western Region", released in 1994. The revised Manual includes updated laboratory protocols and a new section on quality control/quality assurance. A major accomplishment of this project is the sharing of current research and Extension nutrient management information across state lines. Full text state reports from the 2002 WCC-103 project annual meeting are available at http://www.css.orst.edu/nm/WCC103/wcc103.htm Highlights of current Western Region projects and accomplishments by Member/State: Amacher and Kotuby-Amacher/Utah: Current research and Extension projects include: Forest soil quality monitoring as an indicator of forest health (M. Amacher); Selenium remediation project in southeast Idaho (M. Amacher); Phosphorus and Nitrogen Use by Asparagus (Dan Drost); Iodine as a methyl bromide alternative (P. Grossl); Phosphorus sources and placements for irrigated alfalfa (R. Koenig); Sulfur sources and rates for irrigated alfalfa (R. Koenig); nitrogen responses and budget relationships in irrigated grass and grass-legume pastures (R. Koenig); Spatial variability of soil test phosphorus induced by manure spreading (R. Koenig); Phosphorus sources and placements for irrigated alfalfa (R. Koenig). Brown/Idaho: Current projects, western Idaho (Brown) include: cereal protein response to late season N as affected by planting date and variety; winter/spring wheat/spring barley response to P; Onion response to fall applied slow release N sources; Removal of P with a double crop forage system. A Wheat Protein Enhancement Symposium was presented at 2001 ASA meeting. Presentations from the meeting are available on-line at (http://agweb.ag.uidaho.edu/swidaho) Current projects, southern Idaho (Stark) include: wheat baking quality response to N timing and late season water; potato variety response to seasonal N distribution; increasing late season P availability for potatoes using controlled release P or cation resin coatings. Several new faculty members are initiating research/Extension programs. Jason Ellsworth, new faculty member in southern Idaho is planning research on remote sensing for identifying N limited wheat protein and dairy manure and compost evaluations. Jason is leading development of U of I Soil Fertility web site. Bryan Hopkins is planning research on variable rate N applications for variable yield potatoes, N management for potatoes following alfalfa, effectiveness of P timing and placement for potatoes, excessive P effects on potato Zn nutrition. Bryan is updating website for Potato Center of Excellence. Christensen-Hart-Sullivan/Oregon: Managing Nitrogen Fertilizer for Hard Wheat Yield and Protein (Christensen). Field experiments were conducted at four Oregon locations to assess the impact of growing environment and N fertilizer management on grain yield and protein content of hard red and hard white market classes of spring wheat. Significant findings were: (1) more N is required to produce hard spring wheat with acceptable protein than to produce a comparable yield of soft white wheat; (2) market class does not affect total nitrogen uptake by plants; (3) the amount of N in grain vs. straw is unaffected by market class and cultivar; and (4) N fertilizer uptake efficiency by plants is much lower at high rates of N than at low rates of N. Oregon wheat growers will use this information to increase the probability of successfully growing and marketing hard red and hard white classes of wheat. Green Beans (Hart). The Pre-sidedress Soil Nitrate Test (PSNT) for green bean production was evaluated in cooperation with two growers in Willamette Valley and Marvin Kauffman, consultant. The approach showed that N rates for green bean production could be adjusted with the PSNT. Unfortunately, a very short time was available for sampling and analysis, and the dollar amount that could be saved was quite small compared to the effort during a very hectic time of year. Many progressive growers were unwilling to consider using the test this year. We abandoned further work on the project. As part of the PSNT project, nutrient and biomass uptake was measured for two years. Nitrogen information can be found at the following address: http://www.css.orst.edu/newsnotes/0101/0101.PDF A new Western Integrated Nutrient Management Education Project website (Sullivan) provides current information on Pacific Northwest nutrient management policy, current events, agency contacts, and tools for nutrient management at http://www.css.orst.edu/nm/. Pettygrove/California: A wide variety of current and recently completed research and education projects funded by the California Department of Food & Agriculture Fertilizer Research & Education Program are summarized at http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/is/frep. Research focuses on fruit, nut and vine crops, vegetable crops, field crops, precision agriculture, irrigation and fertigation. Gavlak/Alaska: Studies ongoing include dairy waste management assessing yield and quality response, N mineralization, nutrient uptake and the residual effectiveness of liquid and dry manure on annual and perennial grasses; fertility effects on forage legume and grass mixture on yield, quality and nutrient uptake; C cycling in Gelisols. Westfall/Colorado: Current research and Extension efforts focus on Mobility of trace metals in biosolids amended soils (Heil); no-till dryland cropping systems (Peterson); Manure management software (Baud); Manure management education (Davis); Survey of irrigated agriculture in Colorado (Baud); economic analysis of BMP adoption (Waskom); N credits from manure and irrigation water (Baud); P carryover in intensive no-till dryland cropping systems (Westfall); Pre-sidedress nitrate test (PSNT) on manured and nonmanured fields (Khosla); Analysis of Colorado aquifer vulnerability to nitrate contamination on a watershed and field scale (Waskom); Impacts of Irrigation and Fertilization of Mountain Meadows on Water Quality (Waskom); Phosphorus in runoff-national benchmark P runoff project (Davis); Slow release N sources for onions (Westfall); Evaluating Nitrogen Management Techniques on Production Level Management Zones; and Spatial N Removal from Management Zones (Khosla). Miller/ North American Proficiency Testing Program: The 2001 NAPT program wrapped up in January 2002 with 164 laboratories from the countries of Canada, United States, Mexico, Guatemala, and Chile. One hundred twenty-one labs were enrolled in the plant program and forty in the water program. Approximately 85% of the labs now provide quarterly results via e-mail. A comparison of the M-3 P analysis by ICP and a colorimetric method indicates that for soils with a pH less than 7.5 the ICP method recovered significantly more P than the colorimetric method and was consistently more variable. A comparison of the M-3-P colorimetric method with Bray P-1 method indicates equivalent medians on the three soils having a pH less than 7.5. McCaslin/New Mexico: Phytoextraction of uranium from contaminated soil is a very promising technique for economical decontamination of soils. Research focused on development of a hydroponic nutrient solution technique was developed to screen plants for citrate assisted uranium uptake. Thirty-two plant species utilized in the screening study, listed in descending order of uranium concentration in the above ground tissue: lettuce, kochia, tomato, alfalfa, golden amaranth, black grama, tansy mustard, London rocket, four wing saltbush, swiss chard, carrot, zucchini, desert mallow, purple aster, Indian mustard, Okra, desert baileya, broom dahlia, leek, Stanlyea, pea, Galleta, sainfoin, bottle gourd, datura, four o‘clock, cucumber, tobacco, rye grass, radish, Sporobolus, corn. Uchida/Hawaii: Current research and Extension projects include: P Index Work (R. Yost with NRCS personnel); Effluent P Disposal (C. Evensen, R. Yost, and N.V. Hue and Livestock Agents); Yield Decline in Macadamia (G. Porter, R. Yost, and M. Nagao); Yield Response of Vegetables to Phosphorus Fertilizer Applications in Hawaii (H. Valenzuela, D. Sato, R. Uchida, L. Shinsato, J. Silva, R. Yost and C. Smith); Calcium Experiment with Pineapple (G. Uehara, R. Hamasaki, R. Uchida, N.V. Hue, J. Silva, G. Tsuji, R. Ogoshi, R. Paull, and D. Bartholomew); Nutrient Management for Wetland Taro Production (J. Silva, J. Uchida, R. Uchida and Extension Agents). Stevens/Wyoming: Research projects include evaluation of K fertilizer recommendations for irrigated alfalfa production; effect of N and K application rates on lodging, yield and crop quality in malt barley production; micronutrient and sulfur effects on sugar beet production; seedling injury and stand loss resulting from pre-plant applications of ammonium nitrate and urea N fertilizers; potential benefits of site-specific N management in irrigated sugar beet production; N management strategies for dry beans. Thompson/Arizona: Current research projects include: Residual soil nitrogen evaluations in irrigated desert soils; Evaluation of manganese fertility in the Yuma Valley; potassium fertilization of upland cotton; development of tissue tests for durum wheat and malting barley, development of best management practices for young navel oranges; effects of fluid P fertigation on growth and yield of micro sprinkler irrigated citrus in the desert Southwest; Foliar applications of low-biuret urea and potassium phosphite to navel orange trees; temporal and varietal changes in pecan leaf tissue; fertigation frequency for subsurface drip-irrigated broccoli; nitrogen dynamics in bioremediation systems; determining fertility requirements and mowing response of Sea Isle 2000 Paspalum for golf greens and fairways in the Southwest. Stevens/Washington: Current research includes: Dynamics of earthworm populations under direct seed conditions; Nitrogen availability from biosolids; Site-specific crop management as a strategy for reducing nitrate leaching potential in the Columbia Plateau; Field deployable, real-time sensors to improve canopy management in grape; Assessment of ion selective electrodes for nitrate and potassium measurements in soil slurries; Comparison of slow release and conventional N fertilizers for potato production in the Columbia Basin; Carbon and nitrogen cycling in direct-seed spring cereal alternatives to wheat-fallow; Radar assessment and GIS modeling of cover crop adoption in the Columbia Basin for improving cycling and reducing wind erosion; Trace metal accumulation in potato and wheat from commercial fertilizer sources; Wheat and bluegrass straw utilization for paper and fertilizer production; Effect of BMPs for manure management on movement of fecal coliform and nutrients in return flows; minimizing sediment and nutrient loss from furrow irrigated fields.

Publications

Impact Statements

The WCC Committee planned the upcoming (2003) Western Nutrient Management Conference. The Western Nutrient Management Conference provides an opportunity for exchanging nutrient correlation/calibration data across state boundaries, and for coordinating Western Region research/educational projects. Improved nutrient management practices and improved nutrient management guidance are major outcomes of the Conference.
The revised Western States Laboratory Plant, Soil and Water Analysis Manual assists public and private agricultural professionals in more effective use of soil, plant and water testing. The Manual promotes uniform laboratory analytical procedures throughout the Western Region.

Date of Annual Report: 11/25/2003

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 03/05/2003 - 03/07/2003
Period the Report Covers: 03/01/2002 - 03/01/2003

Participants

Brief Summary of Minutes

Minutes of March 2002 committee meeting in Yuma, AZ approved.

WCC-103 Update Lee Sommers. Presented information on National information management and support system (NIMSS). New reporting system for CSREES. Proposal, reports, etc. all funneled through this system. Accomplishments and impacts reported by objective. Impact statements. Economic, social data valued most. Should answer question for policy makers: Why is WCC103 an important activity worth supporting? Maybe a couple of statements about Western Nutrient Management Conference. Each state representative will identify major accomplishment and impacts related to WCC-103 and two to four most significant publications for inclusion in the group annual report to CSREES.

Treasurers Report Dale Westermann. Approximately $6800 in CD held in reserve for Western Nutrient Management Conference (WCC-103). Jason Ellsworth is designated to withdraw and deposit funds from CD for WCC-103. Mary Fenwick secretary at U of I Twin Falls office was authorized last year by WCC-103 to be signer on account. Linda Barnom, secretary at Twin Falls, ID may be substituted for Mary Fenwick in the future.

WCC-103 committee member and representative changes

Alaska. Ray Gavlak retired. No current representative.

Montana. Jeff Jacobsen inactive.

Hawaii. Russell Yost attending meeting this year. Ray Ichida left Univ. Hawaii.

New Mexico. Bob McCaslin current representative but has not attended the last two yr.

Action: Lee Sommers will contact New Mexico, Montana, and Alaska Expt Stations to solicit their participation. Suggestions for Montana representatives included Dan Long (Haver?), Rick Engle, and Mal Westcott. No known potential representatives from Alaska.

WCC-103 can have more than one participant per state, but each state gets one vote for voting. Most if not all WCC103 issues are handled by consensus, so this is not a big deal.

2003 W. Nutrient Management Conference Update Jason Ellsworth. 73 registered in 2003 as compared to 75 in 2001.

Update 2004 meeting in San Diego Stu Pettygrove.

Local arrangements coordinator: Stu Pettygrove to work with Valerie Mallino (sp?), UC advisor in San Diego area. Meeting dates are 17-19 March, 2004. Hotels in SD expensive; Stu will work on a hotel deal that agronomists can pay. Meeting will start Wednesday, tour on Thursday, end Friday around noon. Potential stops/focus could include drip irrigation, TMDLs, salinity control etc. Stu will prepare proposal for WCC-103 and circulate for discussion via WCC103 ListServe.

New officers

7 2005 Program chair for WNMC in SLC. Bart Stevens elected by consensus.

7 2005 local arrangements chairs. Local arrangements chair (Rich Koenig?) to make hotel reservation following this years meeting. Potential dates for conference in 2005 are first week of March (Wed, Thurs, Fri; March 2-4, 2005) and second week of March 9-11 as second choice.

7 Incoming WCC-103 incoming secretary. Rob Mikkelsen nominated and elected by consensus.

More detailed minutes available at: http://cropandsoil.oregonstate.edu/nm/WCC103/wcc103.htm

Accomplishments

The Western Nutrient Management Conference summarized current university research efforts on nitrogen and phosphorus management. Such university research is critical for the development of effective nutrient management plans that will reduce N and P loss to surface and ground waters. Representatives from Idaho, Hawaii, Montana, California and Oregon made presentations on phosphorus management. Nitrogen management research and its agronomic applications were presented by Oregon, California, Colorado, and Idaho representatives. A peppermint symposium, presented at the Western Nutrient Management Conference, integrated research conducted by researchers from Idaho, Oregon, and Montana. A WCC-103 work group was established to produce an Extension guide for nutrient management in peppermint. The Western Nutrient Management Conference provided a forum for discussion of issues surrounding the precision, accuracy and reproducibility of soil test results provided by commercial and university laboratories. Representatives of universities, private laboratories, the Natural Resources Conservation Service, and the North American Proficiency Testing Program discussed their perspectives on the reliability of soil test data. Based on discussions among affected parties at the WNMC and elsewhere, the North American Proficiency Testing Program will propose new approaches to assess laboratory reliability. Improved technologies for nutrient management including (i) improved characterization of N-release characteristics of soils, manures and biosolids and (ii) improved techniques for site specific variable rate N management, and (iii) improved soil testing methods were presented and discussed by participants at the Western Nutrient Management Conference.

Publications

Proceedings of the Western Nutrient Management Conference. 6-7 March 2003. Salt Lake City, UT. Potash & Phosphate Institute. Brookings, S.D. Available on-line: http://cropandsoil.oregonstate.edu/nm/WCC103/wcc103.htm Al-Kaisi, Mahadi and Reagan Waskom. 2002. Estimating ammonium loss from sprinkler-applied swine effluent. Agron. J. 94:1156-1162. Al-Wabel, D. M. Heil, D. G. Westfall, K. A. Barbarick. 2002. Solution chemistry influence on metal solubility in biosolids-amended soils. J. Environ. Qual. 32:1157-1165. Cogger, C., A. Bary and D.M. Sullivan. 2002. Fertilizing with yard trimmings. Publ. EB1926E. Washington State Univ. Cooperative Extension. Pullman, WA. [Online]. Available at: http://cru.cahe.wsu.edu/CEPublications/eb1926e/eb1926e.pdf. Davenport, J.R., and J.M. Harper and L.J. Mills. 2002 Selected vineyard soil chemical properties before and after four years of variable rate fertilizer application. AM.J. Enol.Vit. 53:257A. Davis, J. G., K. V. Iverson, and M. F. Vigil. 2002. Nutrient availability in manures: Implications for sampling and regional database creation. J. Soil Water Concerv. 57 (6); 473-478. Drost, D., R. Koenig and T. Tindall. 2002. Nitrogen use efficiency and onion yield increased with a polymer-coated nitrogen source. HortSci. 37:338-342. electronic publication AG-FG-03, 5p. Johnson, P.J., R.T. Koenig and K.L. Kopp. 2003. Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium responses and requirements in calcareous sand greens. Agron. J. 95:697-702. Khosla, R., K. Fleming, J. Delgado, T. Shaver, and D. Westfall. Use of Site Specific Management Zones to Improve Nitrogen Management for Precision Agriculture. 2002. J. of Soil & Water Conservation. Vol. 57 (6) 513_518. Koenig, R., M. Nelson, J. Barnhill and D. Miner. 2002. Fertilizer management for grass and grass-legume mixtures. Utah State University Extension Mahler, Robert, and Steven Guy. 2002. Northern Idaho Fertilizer Guide. Spring Canola. CIS 1012. Mahler, Robert. 2002. Northern Idaho Fertilizer Guide - Soft White Spring Wheat. CIS 1101. Mahler, Robert. 2002. Northern Idaho Fertilizer Guide - Spring Barley. CIS 920. Savell, S., and K.J. Reddy. 2002. Water quality monitoring criteria to develop Total Maximum Daily Load process: Nitrate. In Proceedings of Watershed Management to Meet Emerging Total Maximum Daily Load Regulations, American Society of Agricultural Engineers, Fort Worth,Texas, p. 435-438. Stark, Jeffery, and Brad Brown. 2002. Southern Idaho Fertilizer Guide -Irrigated Alfalfa. Idaho Cooperative Extension System. CIS No. 827. Sullivan, D.M., A.I. Bary, D.R. Thomas, S.C. Fransen, and C.G. Cogger. 2002. Food waste compost effects on fertilizer nitrogen efficiency, available nitrogen, and tall fescue yield. Soil Sci. Soc. Am J. 66:154-161. Thompson, T.L., T.A. Doerge, and R.E. Godin. 2002. Subsurface drip irrigation and fertigation of broccoli: I. Yield, quality, and nitrogen uptake. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. J. 66:186-192. Thompson, T.L., T.A. Doerge, and R.E. Godin. 2002. Subsurface drip irrigation and fertigation of broccoli: II. Agronomic, economic, and environmental outcomes. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. J. 66:178-185. Weinert, T., W.L. Pan, M.R.Moneymaker, G.S. Santo, and R.G. Stevens. 2002. Nitrogen recycling by non-leguminous winter cover crops to reduce leaching in potato rotations. Agron. J. 94:365-372.

Impact Statements

The WCC-103 Committee brought together agricultural professionals for continuing education and networking at the 2003 Western Nutrient Management Conference. The Conference focused on timely issues of importance to nutrient management practitioners across the Western Region. Thus, the Conference was successful in bringing parties together to address issues across state lines, and to develop integrated nutrient management recommendations for the Western Region.
Improved nutrient management technologies disseminated via the WCC103 Committee are assisting agricultural professionals who are responsible for writing nutrient management plans in the Western Region and beyond. The WNMC focused its 2003 educational efforts on nitrogen and phosphorus management in response to requests by agricultural professionals, NRCS, and other conservation planning agencies.
The WCC-103 continues to provide a forum for emerging issues of concern in the Western Region. During the past year, the WCC-103 facilitated a forum for exchange of perspectives and ideas about how to improve the precision, accuracy and reproducibility of soil testing. Reliable soil test data is essential for the implementation of nutrient management plans that protect surface and ground waters.

Date of Annual Report: 04/05/2004

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 03/17/2004 - 03/19/2004
Period the Report Covers: 03/01/2003 - 03/01/2004

Participants

Kelli Beldin, (Univ. WY) soiltest@uwyo.edu
Alan Blaylock, (Agrium) ablayloc@agrium.com; Neil Christensen, (OR State Univ.) Neil.W.Christensen@oregonstate.edu; Joan Davenport, (Washington State Univ.)jdavenp@tricity.wsu.edu; Jonathan Deenik, (Univ. Hawaii) jdeenik@hawaii.edu;
Nat Dellavalle, (Dellavalle Lab) ndellavalle@dellavallelab.com; Jason Ellsworth, (Univ. ID) jwellswo@uidaho.edu; Robert Miller, (North Amer. Prof. Testing) rmiller@lamar.colostate.edu; Janice Kotuby-Amacher, (UT State Univ) jkotuby@mendel.usu.edu;
Robert Mikkelsen, (Potash & Phosphate Institute) rmikkelsen@ppi-far.org;
Stuart Pettygrove, (Univ. CA, Davis) gspettygrove@ucdavis.edu; Bart Stevens, (Univ. WY)wstevens@uwyo.edu; Dan Sullivan, (OR State Univ.) dan.sullivan@oregonstate.edu; Tom Thompson, (Univ. AZ)thompson@ag.arizona.edu; Terry Tindall, (JR Simplot)ttindall@simplot.com; Dwayne Westfall, (CO State Univ) dwayne.westfall@colostate.edu

Brief Summary of Minutes

Officers: Chair: Tom Thompson (2003-2004); Past Chair: Nat Dellevalle (2002-2003); Incoming Chair: Dan Sullivan (2004-2005); Secretary: Robert Mikkelsen; Treasurer: Jason Ellsworth; Incoming Secretary: Jonathan Deenik; 2005 Program Planning Chair: Bart Stevens; 2004 Local Arrangements: Stuart Pettygrove.

Western states with no representative in attendance: Montana: Replacement for Jacobsen needs to be identified; Alaska: Invitation will be extended; New Mexico: Invitation will be extended.

Changes in state representatives: Jonathan Deenik has replaced Russ Yost as the Univ. Hawaii representative.

Plans were made for the Western Nutrient Conference (March 2-4, 2005) to be held at the University Park Marriott, Salt Lake City, UT. Reservations have already been made for the conference. Bart Stevens will be the program planning chairman. Rob Mikkelsen will be responsible for publicity when the program gets set. Phyllis Pates (PPI) will be coordinating the conference and proceedings arrangements with Bart. Jason Ellsworth accepted assignment to work on printing the proceedings and providing the poster boards for the meeting. General agenda is: Wednesday (Mar. 2)- WCC103 Committee meeting; Thursday and Friday (Mar 3-4)- Conference program.

Future WCC Meetings: Dr. Jonathan Deenik, University of Hawaii, offered to host the WCC 103 meeting for March 2006. This suggestion was approved.

Accomplishments

The WCC group summarized the current university and industry research efforts on nutrient management- including inorganic nutrients and animal by-products. Considerable effort is underway on improving the management of animal wastes for use in crop production. Close cooperation with USDA-NRCS is taking place to assist this agency in making science-based recommendations. The NRCS has also requested considerable help from University faculty for training the field-based practitioners in the western states. This effort is expected to escalate in the future. Two regional publications were completed during the year as a result of WCC activity: 1. Monitoring Soil Nutrients Using a Management Unit Approach (PNW 570-E) (available at http://eesc.oregonstate.edu/agcomwebfile/EdMat/pnw570-E.pdfwebsite) 2. Soil, Plant, and Water Reference Methods for the Western Region publication completed (available at http://cropandsoil.oregonstate.edu/nm/WCC103/Soil_Methods.htm website). Three new or ongoing publications were discussed and plans were made for completing them as regional efforts during the coming year, including: Soil Extractant/Interpretation Guide: help users understand the differences in soil extractants, the rationale of different approaches, and how to interpret results of laboratory analysis. Peppermint Nutrition Guide: Excellent session covered these issues at the 2003 Conference and the resultes are published in the proceedings Protein Enhancement in Grains: A first draft with figures has been circulated to the committee for review. Soil Testing Issues: Coordination of soil analysis among the western states is underway. Since soil analysis is becoming the basis for regulation, its accuracy is becoming more critical. North America proficiency test (NAPT) program in existence since 1998. ~160 labs currently enrolled in the program. Quality of soil test information is high priority since many regulatory programs are dependent on this accurate data. Analytical results from a few laboratories are consistently different from most laboratories- which raise issues! A double-blind study done by Miller and WSU-Pullman on six samples identified wide variation in the results. A Utah NRCS test of 25 samples indicates that some labs are consistently higher than others. A Performance Assessment Program (PAP) is being organized in cooperation with NRCS to identify laboratories that will be certified to handle NRCS-funded soil samples. Laboratories will have to identify methods, accept double-blind samples (5 to 10 soils), and participate in NAPT program. The likely standard will be +/- 20% of the mean. Of the Western US 38 currently participating labs, approx. 22 of the labs already meet this standard. Labs that pass this standard will be publicized on NRCS and SSSA website and approved for future NRCS work. Reports were made on topics of regional interest, including vegetable fertilization, cotton management, potato and sugarbeet nutrition, forage production, small grain nutrient requirements, etc.

Publications

Thompson, T.L., S.A. White, J. Walworth, and G.J. Sower. 2003. Fertigation frequency for subsurface drip-irrigated broccoli. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. J. 67:910-918. Hutmacher, R B, R L Travis, D W Rains, RN Vargas, B.A. Roberts, B.L. Weir, S.D. Wright, D.S. Munk, B.H. Marsh, M.P. Keeley, F.B. Fritschi, D.J. Munier, R.L. Nichols and R. Delgado. 2004. Response of recent Acala cotton varieties to variable nitrogen rates in the San Joaquin Valley of California. Agron. J. 96:48-62. Fritschi, F., BA Roberts, R.L. Travis, D.W. Rains and R.B. Hutmacher. 2003. Response of irrigated Ac ala and Pima cotton to nitrogen fertilization: Growth, dry matter partitioning and yield. Agron. J. 95:133-146. Wang, Zhi; Wu, Laosheng; Harter, Thomas; Lu, Jianliang; Jury, William A., 2003. A field study of unstable preferential flow during soil water redistribution, Water Resour. Res. Vol. 39 No. 4, l0.1029/2001WR000903, 01 April 2003. Minasny, B., J. W. Hopmans, T. Harter, S. 0. Eching, A. Tuli, M. A. Denton, 2004. Neural networks prediction of soil hydraulic functions for alluvial soils using multistep outflow data, Soil Science Soc. Of Am. Journal 68:4 17429 Anon. 2004. Farm Water Quality Planning Short Course. University of California Cooperative Extension and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Salinas, CA. (Contact Mary L. Bianchi, UC Cooperative Extension, 2156 Sierra Way, Suite C, San Luis Obispo CA, 93401) Gangloff, W. R. 2003. Spatial statistical analysis of soil parameters and crop yields for precision agriculture applications. Ph. D. Dissertation, Department of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University. Fort Collins, CO 80523 Gangloff, W., R. Reich, D. Westfall, and R. Khosla. 2003. Spatial dependence of soil samples and precision farming applications. Pg 223_228. In Precision Agriculture. J. Stafford and A. Werner (eds) Wageningen Academic Publishers 783 pp. The Netherlands. (Refereed) Gangloff, W., R. Reich, D. Westfall, and R. Khosla. 2003. Spatial dependence of soil samples and precision farming applications. Pg 204. In Program book of the joint conference of ECPA_ECPLF. A. Werner and A. Jarfe (eds) Wageningen Academic Publishers, The Netherlands. 846 pp Westfall, D.G., W.J. Gangloff, R. Khosla, R.M. Reich, A. Hornung, D.F. Heermann, H.J. Farahani, and K. Fleming. 2003. Development of production level management zones for nitrogen fertilization. Pg 332. In Program book of the joint conference of ECPA_ECPLF. A. Werner and A. Jarfe (eds) Wageningen Academic Publishers, The Netherlands. Pp 846. Westfall, D. G., W. J. Gangloff, R. M. Riech, R. Khosla, D. F. Heermann, H. J. Farahani, and K. Fleming. 2003. Identification of production level management zones and accuracy level verification. Agron. Abs., CD ROM. Amer. Soc. of Agron., Madison, WI. (Invited paper) Davis, J.G. 2003. Making decisions about application rates. Livestock and Poultry Environmental Stewardship Curriculum. CAFO Fact Sheet series # 25. Davis, J.G. 2003. Why does manure matter in the Great Plains? Invited paper for Symposium on ?What do we do with all this manure?? Agronomy Abstracts. Annual Meetings of ASA/CSSA/SSSA. 2-6 Nov., 2003 in Denver, CO. Oral. Davis, J.G., M.F. Vigil, B.R. Jakubowski, and G.M. Smith. 2003. Impact of Manure Characteristics and Management on Nitrogen Mineralization. Proc. of the Western Nutrient Management Conference 5:29-33. March 6-7, 2003 in Salt Lake City, Utah Elliott, A.L. 2003. Impact of organic phosphorus sources on phosphorus runoff. M.S. thesis. Colorado State University; Fort Collins, CO. Elliott, A.L., J.G. Davis, R.M. Waskom, D.K. Christensen, and J.R. Self. 2003. Impact of organic phosphorus sources on phosphorus runoff. Agronomy Abstracts. Annual Meetings of ASA/CSSA/SSSA. 2-6 Nov., 2003 in Denver, CO. Schierer, R.A., J.G. Davis, R.M. Waskom, and A. Schlegel. 2003. Ortho-phosphorus runoff from three Great Plains calcareous soils. Agronomy Abstracts. Annual Meetings of ASA/CSSA/SSSA. 2-6 Nov., 2003 in Denver, CO. Davis, J.G., R.A. Schierer, R.M. Waskom, and A.J. Schlegel. 2003. Predicting phosphorus runoff from manured cropland on calcareous soils. Western Society of Soil Science. Abstracts of the American Association for the Advancement of Science Pacific Division. June 15-17, 2003, in San Francisco, CA Daniel, J., J.G. Davis, and L. Grant. 2003. Long-term organic farming impacts on soil fertility. The Second National Organic Tree Fruit Symposium, May 28-30, 2003; Grand Junction, Colorado. Davis, J.G., and R.J. Zimmerman. 2003. Nutrient availability for apple trees from chicken manure and compost. The Second National Organic Tree Fruit Symposium, May 28-30, 2003; Grand Junction, Colorado Hornung, A., R. Khosla, R. Reich, and D.G. Westfall. 2003. Evaluation of Site-Specific Management Zones: Grain Yield and Nitrogen Use Efficiency. Pg 297-302. In Precision Agriculture. J. Stafford and A. Werner (eds) Wageningen Academic Publishers 783 pp. The Netherlands. (Refereed) Inman, D.J., R. Khosla, D.G. Westfall, and R.M. Reich. 2003. Spatial variability in nitrogen uptake across site-specific management zones in irrigated corn. Agronomy Abstracts, Western Society of Crop Science Annual Meetings, Fort Collins, CO June 22-24, 2003. pg 4. Hornung, A., R. Khosla, R. Reich, and D.G. Westfall. 2003. Evaluation of Site-Specific Management Zones: Grain Yield and Nitrogen Use Efficiency. Pg 223. In Program book of the joint conference of ECPA_ECPLF. A. Werner and A. Jarfe (eds) Wageningen Academic Publishers, The Netherlands. Pp 846. Khosla, R., D. G. Westfall, B. Koch, M. Frasier, and K. Fleming. 2003. Production level management zones for fertilizer management: Are they profitable. Agron. Abs., CD ROM. Amer. Soc. of Agron., Madison, WI. (Invited paper) Khosla. R., A. Hornung, R. M. Reich, and D. G. Westfall. 2003. Yield maps and soil properties to delineate site-specific management zones. Agron. Abs., CD ROM. Amer. Soc. of Agron., Madison, WI Bauder, Troy and Reagan Waskom. 2003. Best Management Practices for Colorado Corn. Colo. State Univ. Coop. Ext. XCM574A Sharkoff, J.L., R.M. Waskom and T.A. Bauder. 2003. Colorado Nitrogen Leaching Index Risk Assessment Version 1.0. USDA-NRCS Agronomy Technical Note No. 97. Sharkoff, J.L., R.M. Waskom and J.G. Davis. 2002. Colorado Phosphorus Index Risk Assessment Version 2.0. USDA-NRCS Agronomy Technical Note No. 95 Leytem, A.B. and J.T. Sims. 2004. coefficients for organic phosphorus sources: Laboratory studies. J. Environ. Qual. 33:389-393 Leytem, A.B., B.L. Turner, and V. Raboy. 2004. Phosphorus solubility in soils following incorporation of manure from swine fed a variety of low phytate barley diets. Soil Sci. submitted March 2004. Leytem, A.B., B.L. Turner, and J.B. Taylor. 2004. Effects of low phytate barleys on manure phosphorus forms in swine. Prof. Anim. Sci. submitted Feb 2004 Hart, J., N. Christensen, M. Mellbye, and G. Gingrich. 2003. Nutrient and biomass accumulation of peppermint. In: Western Nutrient Management Conference Proceedings, Vol. 5, p. 63-70. March 6-7, 2003, Salt Lake City, UT. Christensen, N.W., J.M. Hart, M.E. Mellbye, and G.A. Gingrich. 2003. Soil nitrogen dynamics in peppermint fields. In: Western Nutrient Management Conference Proceedings, Vol. 5, p. 71-76. March 6-7, 2003, Salt Lake City, UT. Christensen, N.W., J.M. Hart, M.E. Mellbye, and G.A. Gingrich. 2003. Sulfur influence on peppermint oil quality. In: Western Nutrient Management Conference Proceedings, Vol. 5, p. 190-198. March 6-7, 2003, Salt Lake City, UT. Mellbye, M.E., G.A. Gingrich, and J.M. Hart. 2003. Response of cool season grass seed crops to boron fertilizer in the Willamette Valley, Oregon. In: Proc. of the 5th International Herbage Seed Conference, November 23-26, 2003, University of Queensland Gatton Campus, Australia. Hart, J.M., D.A. Horneck, M.E. Mellbye, G.A. Gingrich, W.C. Young, and T.B. Silberstein. 2003. Potassium nutrition of perennial ryegrass. In: Proc. of the 5th International Herbage Seed Conference, November 23-26, 2003, University of Queensland Gatton Campus, Australia. Young III, W.C., T.B. Silberstein, M.E. Mellbye, G.A. Gingrich, J.M. Hart, and T.G. Chastain. 2003. Spring nitrogen fertilization practices in Oregon?s Willamette Valley grass seed crops. In: Proc. of the 5th International Herbage Seed Conference, November 23-26, 2003, University of Queensland Gatton Campus, Australia. Davenport, J.R., C.J. DeMoranville, J. Hart, S. Kumidini, K. Patten, A. Poole, and T.R. Roper. 2003. Spatial and temporal variability of cranberry soil pH. Acta Hort. (ISHS) 626:323-336 http://www.actahort.org/books/626/626_45.htm Hart, J. and B. Strik. 2004. Site Evaluation and Preparation. In: Proc. of the Blueberry Production Course, March 2, 2004, Oregon State University Extension Service, Salem, OR. Horneck, D., J. Hart, R. Stevens, S. Petrie, and J. Altland. 2004. Acidifying Soil for Crop Production West of the Cascade Mountains (Western Oregon and Washington). In: Proc. of the Blueberry Production Course, March 2, 2004, Oregon State University Extension Service, Salem, OR. Hart, J., T. Righetti, B. Strik, D. Horneck, and M. Kauffman. 2004. What are my blueberry plants telling me? In: Proc. of the Blueberry Production Course, March 2, 2004, Oregon State University Extension Service, Salem, OR. Strik, B., J. Hart, P. Bañados, and W. Yang. 2004. Fertilization (what we now know and what we still need to learn). In: Proc. of the Blueberry Production Course, March 2, 2004, Oregon State University Extension Service, Salem, OR. Hart, J., D. Horneck, R. Stevens, N. Bell, and C. Cogger. 2003 Acidifying Soil for Blueberries and Ornamental Plants in the Yard and Garden, west of the Cascade Mountain Range in Oregon and Washington. Oregon State University Extension Service EC 1560-E. April 2003. Hart, J. M. and M. D. Butler. 2003. Seed carrot above ground biomass and nutrient accumulation, 2001/2002 growing season. In: W.C. Young III (ed.), 2002 Seed Production Research at Oregon State University USDA-ARS Cooperating, Department of Crop and Soil Science Ext/CrS 121, 4/03, Corvallis, OR Young, W.C. III, M.E. Mellbye, G.A. Gingrich, T.B. Silberstein, T.G. Chastain, J.M. Hart, and S. M. Griffith. 2003. Defining optimum nitrogen fertilization practices for grass seed production systems in the Willamette Valley. In: W.C. Young III (ed.), 2002 Seed Production Research at Oregon State University USDA-ARS Cooperating, Department of Crop and Soil Science Ext/CrS 122, 5/03, Corvallis, OR. Bell, N., D. M. Sullivan, L. J. Brewer, and J. Hart. May 2003. Improving Garden Soils with Organic Matter. Oregon State University Extension Service EC 1561. Gingrich, G.A., J.M. Hart, D.A. Horneck, W.C. Young, and T.B. Silberstein. 2003. Fine fescue seed (Western Oregon?West of the Cascades). Oregon State University Extension Service FG 6 (revised). Corvallis, OR. Mellbye, M.E., J.M. Hart, D.A. Horneck, W.C. Young III, and T. Silberstein. 2003. Annual Ryegrass (Western Oregon). Oregon State University Extension Service FG 5-E (revised). Corvallis, OR. Hart, J.M., M.E. Mellbye, W.C. Young III, and T. Silberstein. 2003. Nutrient Management for Annual Ryegrass Grown for Seed (Western Oregon). Oregon State University Extension Service EM 8854-E. Corvallis, OR. Pirelli, G., J. Hart, S. Filley, A. Peters, M. Porath, T. Downing, M. Bohle, and J. Carr. 2004. Early Spring Forage Production for Western Oregon Pastures. Oregon State University Extension Service EM 8852-E. Corvallis, OR Horneck, D., J. Hart, R. Stevens, S. Petrie, and J. Altland. 2004. Acidifying Soil for Crop Production West of the Cascade Mountains (Western Oregon and Washington). Oregon State University Extension Service EM 8857-E. Corvallis, OR Hart, J., R. Fletcher, C. Landgren, D. Horneck, S. Webster, and M. Bondi. 2004. Christmas Tree Nutrient Management Guide for Western Oregon and Washington. Oregon State University Extension Service EM 8856-E. Corvallis, OR Cogger, C.G., Bary, A.I., D.M. Sullivan, and E.A. Myhre. 2004. Biosolids processing effects on first and second year available N. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. J. 68:162-167. Davenport, J. R. 2003. Introduction to Workshop: Managing nitrogen and water for production efficiency in potato. HortTechnology 13(4): 592. Davenport, J.R., DeMoranville, C.J., Hart, J., Kumidini, S., Patten, K., Poole, A. and Roper, T.R. 2003. Spatial and temporal variability of cranberry soil pH. Acta Hort. (ISHS) 626:323-336 http://www.actahort.org/books/626/626_45.htm Davenport, J. R., J. M. Marden, L. J. Mills, and M. J. Hattendorf. 2003. Concord grape response to variable rate nutrient management. Am. J. Vit. Enol. 54(4):286-293. Gilmour, J.T., C.G. Cogger, L.W. Jacobs, G.K. Evanylo, and D.M. Sullivan. 2003. Decomposition and plant available N in biosolids: Laboratory studies, field, studies, and computer simulation. J. Environ. Qual. 32:1498-1507. Sullivan, D.M., A.I. Bary, T.J. Nartea, E.A. Myrhe, C.G. Cogger, and S.C. Fransen. 2003. Nitrogen availability seven years after a high-rate food waste compost application. Compost Sci. Util. 11(3): 265-275. Whitley, K. M., and J. R. Davenport. 2003. Nitrate leaching potential under variable and uniform nitrogen fertilizer management in irrigated potato systems. HortTechnology 13(4): 605-609. Pan, W.L., R.G. Stevens, and K.L. Labno. 2003. Cadmium accumulation in wheat and potato from P and waster-derived Zn fertilizers. In W.L. Hall and W.P. Robarge. Environment Impacts of Fertilizers on Soil, Air, and Water. American Chemical Society. Washington, D.C. pg 112-123 Hart, J., D. Horneck, R. Stevens, N. Bell, and C. Cogger. 2003. Acidifying soil for blueberries and ornamental plants in the yard and garden. EC 1560-E. Oregon State University Extension Service. Sharpley, A.N., T. Daniel, T. Sims, J. Lemunyon, R. Stevens, and R. Parry. 2003. Agricultural Phosphorus and Eutrophication. 2nd Ed. U.S. Department of Agriculture. Agricultural Research Service. ARS-149. pg. 42. Sullivan, D.M. and C.G. Cogger. 2003. Post-harvest soil nitrate testing for manured cropping systems in western Washington and Oregon. EM 8832-E. Oregon State University Extension Service. Cogger, C.G., Bary, A.I., D.M. Sullivan, and E.A. Myhre. 2003. Estimating plant available nitrogen from biosolids. Proc. Western Nutrient Management Conf. 5:42-53. Salt Lake City, UT. Perry, E. M., R. Rupp, J. Davenport, J. Leal, F. J. Pierce, and U. Schulthess. 2003. Crop traceability and remote sensing in tree fruit. In W. Gao and D. R. Shaw (eds.) Proc. SPIE Vol. 5153, Ecosystems‘‘ Dynamics, Agricultural Remote Sensing and Modeling, and Site-Specific Agriculture. Stevens, W.B., R.G. Hoeft, and W.R. Peterson. 2003. Nitrogen fertilizer requirement for inbred corn following corn or soybean. Online. Crop Management doi:10.1094/CM-2003-1126-01-RS Taulealea, Sully. 2003. Economics of Variable Rate Vs. Uniform Rate Fertilization with Wyoming Sugar Beet Production. M.S. Thesis. Vance, G.F., and W.B. Stevens. 2003. Soil characteristics and planning for soil disturbance. p. 12-36. In Sharing Solutions for Successful Plantings in the Northern Great Plains: A Resource Guide. Lake DeSmet Cons. Dist., Wyo. Dept. Agric., EPA Reg. VIII, and Wyo. Assoc. Cons. Dists Peel J.W., K.J. Reddy, B.P. Sullivan, and J. Bowen. 2003. Electrocatlytic reduction of nitrate in water. Water Research Journal. 37:2512-2519 McBeth, I.H., K.J. Reddy, and Q.D. Skinner. 2003. Chemistry of trace elements in coalbed methane product water. Water Research Journal. 37:884-890. Reddy, K.J.., and Q.D. Skinner. 2003. Natural attenuation of Ba, Cr, Mn, and Zn in coalbed methane product water disposal ponds. "Natural Remediation-Bioavailability Interactions in Contaminated Ecosystems: Concepts and Applications". G.R. Gobran and N. Lepp (ed.) In Biogeochemistry of Trace Elements, Uppsala, Sweden, pp336-337

Impact Statements

1. Concern regarding consistent and accurate soil analysis has led the WCC 103 group to initiate efforts of the NAPT pilot program to certify high-performing laboratories. The issue of proper soil testing has serious implications for farm profitability, nutrient management plans, and environmental quality. This program is being implemented during 2004.
2. Efforts to coordinate nutrient management for profitability and environmental protection was facilitated through efforts of WCC103. Each state is working on region-specific crops as resources allow. However, where these regions cross state boundaries, the WCC 103 group successfully facilitates research and educational work. This eliminates unnecessary duplication and redundancy.
3. Coordination of training to promote appropriate nutrient management throughout the Western region was achieved. Sharing case studies of success and failure in individual states is very helpful for all the other states working in this effort. Consistent scientific recommendations for farm production and water quality are possible through WCC 103 efforts.

Date of Annual Report: 09/21/2005

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 03/02/2005 - 03/04/2005
Period the Report Covers: 01/01/2004 - 12/01/2004

Participants

Brief Summary of Minutes

Minutes Attachment:

Attachment

Accomplishments

Idaho Metal Contaminants and Water Quality Lake Coeur dAlene (CDA) in Idaho is a major collecting bed for contaminated sediments produced during mining and ore processing activities. We characterized the lake sediments and made use of a novel approach in which contaminated ponds along the CDA River were used as mesocosms. Soil Management and Cropping Systems " Spring barley vs. spring wheat response to P. Spring wheat and barley did not differ in P requirements. " Alfalfa Seed Yield Response to Residual P. Biomass increased but seed yield decreased with increasing available P. " Nutrient cycling with biofumigants used for onion production. N release from fall incorporated biofumigants occurred mostly before spring planting of onions. " Triticale P concentrations in manured fields. P concentrations in boot stage triticale ranged widely from NRC values and were related to Olsen P. " PNW on-line offering of testing for CCA credits. Soil Fertility and Potato Cropping Systems " P banding in Sugarbeets. Compared 3 depths of banding, surface, 3 and 6 below the seed, at planting. Yield response when banded deep. " Nitrogen management in winter wheat with reduced irrigation. Four irrigation schemes and 5 rates of N. No N Rate response in limited irrigation schemes, reduce N application to zero. Protein levels increase as water as limited. " Variable N Management in Potatoes. Compared 4 methods of determine pre-season N rate in potatoes. Used aerial photography and ground truthing for yield potential yielded highest and had a greater return. " N Management in malting Barley. Determine optimal N rates in barley for eastern Idaho. Determine effectiveness of Greenseeker for in season N management. Greenseeker is effective in differentiating between plots with sufficient N and those with insufficient N. " P timing and rate in Potatoes. Evaluated method of P application and various timings. P application as a band and broadcast together at planting yields the same or higher and was easiest and least expensive method. " Silage corn N rates. On farm rate studies with and without starter. N rates are consistent with recommendations and starter showed no effect. Oregon Spring Chloride application for grass Evaluating if spring K and Cl application increases yield or seed weight in perennial cool season grass grown for seed. Also evaluating Cl soil test and tissue concentration. Found no predictable yield or seed weight increase from either K or Cl applied in spring. Rhubarb Final year to sample rhubarb for nutrient uptake. Plan this year is to sample crowns. We have four years data and will assemble and publish/use data in some manner. Nitrogen rate prediction in grass for seed Ten field sites established to evaluate the nitrogen mineralization soil test. Not successful in using test to predict spring N rate. Blueberries and raspberries Continue working on nutrient accumulation and movement in red raspberries; Also evaluating N rates and mulch on newly planted blueberries. Hawaii 1. The Phosphorus Run-off Risk Evaluator (PRRE): The Phosphorus Index for Hawaii The PRRE is a computer system for desktop and hand-held computers. The PRRE provides a consistent field method of assessing P contamination potential considering local conditions, and assists land manager with decision making. The system has been incorporated into NRCS conservation plan protocols, and 25 NRCS field staff have received training in its correct use. 2. Riparian Composition and Function in a Small Watershed in Hanalei, Hawaii. The purpose of this study is to investigate microbial and nutrient transport through riparian areas. 3. The Use of Mycorrhizal Fungi for the Sustainable Production of Vegetable Crops in Hawaii. This project seeks to determine the extent of vegetable crop dependence on mycorrhiza with the intention of applying the technology with predictable results. 4. Land Application of Livestock Manures in Hawaii and the American Pacific Results after two years are summarized as follows: (i) composition of manures in Hawaii similar to the mainland U.S., except higher Cu levels found in Hawaii manures, (ii) an Oxisol retained much more P against run-off than a Mollisol and the amounts of P released to the run-off watervaried with P source and time, (iii) tropical forage grasses have high nutrient uptake and year round growth in Hawaii which indicates potential for very high manure and effluent application rates, and (iv) suveys of Hawaii livestock producers showed high water use, accumulation of effluent in earthen lagoons, and limited land application of manures and effluents. 5. Nutrient Management for Wetland Taro Production Field trials have shown that wetland taro farmers have been over-applying fertilizers. Results showed that farmers could reduce N inputs to 400 lbs/acre. Most farmers were applying high levels of even when soil P tests showed high P. Results from the experiments showed that taro yields could be improved by withholding P fertilizer when soil P test was between 80-100 mg/kg. The highest yields were observed when K was added at 600 lbs/acre. Farmers have begun to adopt the new fertilizer recommendations obtained through this research. 6. Optimizing the Soil Environment for Diversified Crops in Hawaii This project will help increase the production of diversified crops (e.g., coffee, papaya, taro) in Hawaii by improving the soil environment, crop monitoring parameters, and the farmers management knowledge and skills. 7. Nitrogen Management and Conservation Decision-aids Development The Nitrogen Management and Conservation Decision-aids Development project seeks to improve the diagnosis and detection of agricultural and non-agricultural situations where improper N management may be leading to environmental degradation, excessive costs, and generally decreased productivity. This work may provide the framework for developing a soil nitrate test suitable for our tropical island environment. 8. Upgrading the Fertilizer Advice Consulting System (FACS) Work has begun on revising and upgrading the FACS to achieve better fertilizer recommendations for the state of Hawaii. Revisions will include: (i) improving nitrogen fertilizer recommendations; (ii) conduct field trials to validate criteria for Truog and Bicarbonate P; (iii) provide options for fertilizer application timing in recommendation; (iv) improve user friendliness of software and tailor FACS to client needs; and (v) implement web-access system. 9. Improving Phosphorus Management through Farmer Adoption of Soil and Tissue Testing The purpose of the project is to upgrade and improve the soil nutrient management recommendation procedure currently used by the Agricultural Diagnostic Service Center (ADSC) at the University with the goal of increasing farmer adoption of soil and tissue testing as a guide to better fertilizer management. Utah Primary themes arising from initial efforts have been: proper and efficient use of alternatives to ammonium nitrate, bio-stimulant efficacy and economics, balancing soil health (organic matter manipulation, erosion control, reduced tillage, IPM/BMP adoption, etc.), and salinity control. New plans developed to begin research this spring in many of these focus areas. California 1. Developing a Potential Hazard Index for Nitrate in the Southwest States. Nearly 600 irrigated soils in California, Arizona, and Nevada were indexed based on their relative potential hazard for leaching nitrate. Initial development of the Nitrate Groundwater Pollution Hazard Index for Irrigated Agriculture in the Southwest has been completed (see www.waterresources.ucr.edu). Six workshops to present the index were conducted in November and December of 2004 in Reno (NV), Davis, Fresno, Salinas, Phoenix (AZ), and Holtville; a seventh workshop is being planned for April in San Diego. One hundred people from Cooperative Extension, NRCS, water agency personnel, and consultants attended the workshops. 2. Efficiency of K fertigation through buried drip irrigation on processing tomato yield and fruit quality (CDFA FREP). Fertigated K can increase yield in fields where conventional preplant or sidedress applications are unlikely to do so. Effective K movement from the point of application appears to be less than 8 inches in Central Valley soils. 3. Comparison of soil test procedures to predict soluble P levels in runoff and leachate. (CDFA FREP) In 25 vegetable soils from the Salinas Valley (enriched mostly with mineral fertilizers, not manures), Olsen P was a useful predictor of soluble P loss in runoff and leachate from soil columns, although anion resin adsorbed P and CaCl2 extractable P were somewhat better predictors. Runoff and leachate P are minimal in soils less than about 30-40 PPM Olsen P, and increase quickly in higher P soils; unfortunately the vast majority of areas like the Salinas Valley are above this 'breakpoint'. 4. Seasonal Patterns of Nutrient Uptake and Partitioning as a Function of Crop Load of the Hass Avocado (CDFA FREP) Quantified the amount of each nutrient partitioned into vegetative or reproductive growth and storage pools. The research identified the periods of high nutrient use from bloom to harvest as a function of crop load, and thus identified the amount of each nutrient required and when it was required to produce an on-crop and good return crop the following year. We are in the process of developing guidelines for fertilization based on maximum nutrient-use efficiency that will eliminate applications made during ineffective periods for uptake to thus protect the groundwater and increase profitability for Californias 6,000 avocado growers. 5. Nitrate Transport in Thick, Unsaturated, Alluvial Sediments. While a large amount of research has focused on nitrogen cycling in the root zone of California tree fruit orchards (0-6 ft depth), little is known about the fate of nitrogen between the root zone and the groundwater table. Groundwater levels in many areas of Central and Southern California are from 30 ft to over 100 ft deep. Therefore, the deep vadose zone is a critical link between agricultural sources and groundwater. The objectives of the proposed research are: Investigate the fate of nitrogen throughout the entire deep vadose zone at a well- controlled, long-term research orchard with a stratigraphy typical of many areas on the east side of the San Joaquin Valley and Southern California, and with management practices representative of orchards and vineyards; Develop and validate an appropriate modeling tool to assess the fate of nitrogen in deep, heterogeneous vadose zones. 6. Groundwater Quality Impacts and Dairy Nutrient Management. Our research project has the following objectives: Implement a groundwater monitoring program to characterize shallow groundwater quality underneath a number of cooperating dairies in central California; Develop specific recommendations for improvements in dairy nutrient management that are likely to have significant impact on groundwater quality; Develop strategies to improve current groundwater quality; Educate regulatory agency staff and dairy operators about potential pathways of manure nutrients in the subsurface below dairies and about their potential role in safeguarding ground water quality. 7. Growth Curves for Pastures in Humboldt County. Forage harvest data was collected prior to each grazing 12 and 8 times during 2003 at the two locations. Forage yields increased in response to urea nitrogen rates up to 400 lbs N/A (highest rate applied) split into 3 applications made midMarch, midJune, and midAugust at both locations. Soil samples taken three times during the season soon after fertilizer application indicated little, if any, nitrate moved beyond the 2 foot depth. Forage yields (10 harvests at each of the two locations in 2004) increased in response to N rates up to 400-600 lbs N/A. Yields were significantly lower at both locations when N (600 and/or 800 lbs N/A rates) was applied on two dates rather than the three application dates. Soil samples taken four times during the season soon after fertilizer application indicated that small amounts of nitrate moved into the 3rd foot of soil depth even when the nitrogen was applied only twice per year. 8. Nutrition and Orchard Floor Management Comparisons in a No-Till Organic Cling Peach System. Cling peach trees of the cultivar Klamt were planted in the winter of 2001 on berms in a 10 acre block in Gridley, California. The transition to certified organic status began August 1, 2001. 9. Ponderosa Pine Growth Response to Bottom Wood Ash Application. The objectives are to develop tree growth response information following the application of a range in bottom wood ash application rates and monitor surface water quality in runoff subplots. Greater than 90% survival of seedlings observed in September 2004 indicated no adverse effect due to the higher rates of ash application. Soil pH at the highest ash application rate was slightly over 7.0 for the 3 replications of this treatment. Needle samples were taken for nutrient and potential element toxicity evaluation but analysis of data has not been completed. 10. Strawberry daughter plant production with a liquid slow release nitrogen fertilizer. Unequal nitrogen rates between the conventional and slow release nitrogen fertilizers resulted in no significantly different daughter plant growth or crown diameter at one location. At the second location the high rate of the liquid slow release nitrogen fertilizer caused severe leaf burn and delayed daughter plant growth, both number of plants and crown diameter. 11. Precision Fertigation in Orchards: Development of a Spatially Variable Microsprinkler System (CDFA-FREP). Objectives are to: Design and develop electronic hardware for individually controllable microsprinklers along a drip tubing irrigation line; Develop the communication network and software for control of the microsprinkler network by a master computer; Experimentally evaluate the system performance and potential problems caused by operation in the field; and Develop potential fertigation control strategies to optimize orchard production. Design will begin on a second generation system using wireless communication between the microsprinkler nodes. 12. Practical Soil Test Methods for Predicting Net N Mineralization (CDFA FREP, 2003-2006). The objective of the project is to develop and test in California a simple soil test that will aid in making appropriate nitrogen fertilization recommendations that ensure a high yield and minimize nitrate leaching to groundwater. The approach is to investigate the relationship between the amino sugar content in the soil and nitrogen mineralization during the cropping season and compare the Illinois method of Khan and Mulvaney for estimating soil amino sugar method with other methods used to make N fertilization recommendations. 13. Spatial distribution of soil biota, mycorrhizae, roots and soil nitrogen transformations The role soil microbial processes in supplying nitrogen to vegetables was a major focus of research and extension activities. A three-year project documenting the successful transition to organic production by Salinas Valley vegetable growers was completed. Washington 1. Chloride responses of PNW-adapted spring and winter wheat cultivars. Project emphasized grain milling and end-use quality parameters as well as yield. Spring wheat yield responses to Cl were not consistent. Winter wheat yield responses have been consistent though small (2-3%). Chloride has had minimal effects on grain milling or end use quality parameters of spring or winter wheats. Interestingly, no cultivar by Cl interactions have been found for winter wheat yield, though cultivar by Cl interactions were found for leaf spot severity. For a complete summary see the poster and WNMC Proceedings article for 2005 Conference. 2. Implications of stratified soil acidity in direct seeded cropping systems in eastern Washington. The project initially involved evaluating broadcast and subsurface-banded lime applications on soil pH and wheat and legume yield in direct seeded rotations. No effects of liming on wheat yield were measured in the field; some effects were measured in a growth chamber experiment. Project was expanded to characterize spatial variability of soil pH and Al in direct seeded systems with different liming strategies, to model Al speciation, and to screen pre-1950 and current wheat cultivars for tolerance to low pH/high Al conditions. 3. Seeding and phosphorus rate effects on late planted dryland winter wheat. The main goal is to determine if higher seeding and/or phosphorus rates can improve yield of winter wheat planted late in recrop or chemical fallow situations where fall rains are required to provide adequate seed zone moisture. The project is also designed to provide some basic P response data for winter wheat. Project may be coupled with more detailed analyses of phosphorus thermodynamic equilibrium relationships in diverse soil conditions associated with eastern Washington landscapes and stratified soil pH conditions created with direct seeding. 4. The strategic use of application timing and controlled release nitrogen fertilizer to improve nitrogen use efficiency of winter wheat in the high rainfall zone of eastern Washington. Project seeks to improve nitrogen use efficiency by comparing application timings (early fall at planting, late fall broadcast, early spring broadcast, and splits) and controlled release fertilizer (Polyon product) at 5 rates for hard red winter wheat. 5. Revision of dryland nutrient management guides for Washington. Dryland nutrient management guides are either outdated or nonexistent for eastern Washington. Since these guides play an integral role in the CSP and other NRCS programs, efforts are underway to revise them. Guides will be mainly electronic and supported with an active Excel spreadsheet/application record. In addition to containing traditional fertility recommendation information, these guides include routines for calculating nitrogen uptake and nitrogen utilization efficiencies based on available information such as yield, grain protein, initial soil test nitrogen and nitrogen fertilizer applied. Wyoming Phosphorus availability from fertilizers with varying NH4:P ratios is being studied. New Mexico 1. Comprehensive Nutrient Management Planning Workshops were held at the NRCS state offices in Albuquerque in 2003 and 2004. Fourteen NRCS employees and 11 technical service providers were trained over 3 2 days in 2003. Eleven NRCS, 4 CES, and 1 private individual attended training in 2004. Topics covered included plan development, feed management, nutrient management, design of storage facilities, and compliance with federal and state regulations. Thirty-six CNMP=s have been completed out of 167 possible. 2. Improvements have been made to the New Mexico soil test interpretation workbook for use in NRCSs 590 job sheets for New Mexico. Improvements include updated equations for determining nitrogen loading and fertilizer blending calculations for fertilizer dealers. Compost and manure effects on row crops, grass hay and alfalfa continues to be evaluated at Artesia, Clovis, and Los Lunas. Verification of nitrogen rates for small grains for silage are also being tested at ASC-Artesia 3. Vineyard fertility needs in New Mexico are currently being assessed through soil sampling. The wine industry continues to grow, especially in southwestern New Mexico. Standard soil test potassium using ammonium acetate does not seem to reflect plant available potassium causing a need to challenge current potassium extraction procedures at commercial labs. The NMSU soil and water testing laboratory routinely tests for water soluble K which may have more meaning for crop production. Arizona Cotton 1. Variable Rate Application of P Fertilizers for Cotton. In 2004 we embarked on a variation on the P fertility work investigating variable rate (VR) application of P fertilizers. We observed significant responses to P fertilization. The variable rate produced the highest yield (not statistically different from the UR high and low), but the significant part was that we applied 27% less P fertilizer than the high UR treatment. This would represent an approximate $7/acre savings to the grower. On 1000 acres it would pay for the equipment to make the VR application in one year. 2. P Management in the Upper Gila Valley. P fertility work in the Safford valley for about 4 years. Each year we have conducted a range of trials on soils that typically have less than 5 ppm (NaHCO3 extractable) P. Each year we have statistically significant responses to P fertilization. 3. Residual Soil Nitrogen Evaluations in Irrigated Desert Soils, 2004. At each location conducted since 1989, treatments varied from a conservative to a more aggressive approach of N management. Results at each location have consistently revealed a strong relationship between the crop fruit retention levels and N needs for the crop. This pattern was further reflected in final yield analysis as a response to the N fertilization regimes used. The higher, more aggressive, N application regimes did not benefit yields at any location. Generally, the more conservative, feedback approach to N management provided optimum yields at all locations. Small Grains 1. Use of Tissue Testing to Prevent Low Grain Protein Content in Durum. Low grain protein content in durum can be prevented by applying nitrogen fertilizer after heading. Tentative guidelines were established from previous research for nitrogen fertilizer applications after heading based on the lower stem nitrate content near heading. Ten commercial durum fields were selected for testing the use of these guidelines to ensure grain protein contents greater than 13%. The average protein content was 14.0%, the amount of nitrogen fertilizer actually applied by the growers after heading averaged 44.5 lbs N/acre, whereas the amount recommended by the tentative guidelines averaged 41.5 lbs N/acre. If the tentative guidelines had been followed, we estimate that the average grain protein content would have been about 13.92%, and two fields would have been slightly below 13% protein (about 12.8% protein). Our tentative nitrogen fertilizer recommendations based on stem samples near heading appear accurate. 2. Fluctuation in Lower Stem Nitrate Concentration in Small Grains. Lower stem nitrate concentration is used as a guide for fertilization of small grains in Arizona. Durum and barley were grown at the Maricopa Agricultural Center and lower stems were analyzed for nitrate from 3-leaf to maturity. Stem nitrate concentration varied considerably between the 3-leaf and 2 node stages, but thereafter was relatively constant and low (averaged 765 ppm). Stem nitrate increased after rain or N application on a few occasions, but not consistently. In this study, the timing of the stem sampling could have affected fertilizer recommendations before the 2-nodestage, but after the 2-node stage, fluctuations in stem nitrate would have resulted in relatively minor differences in fertilizer recommendations. Citrus and Fruit Crops 1. Nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer requirements for young, bearing microsprinkler-irrigated citrus. The objective of this project is to investigate the effects of two important management variables, N rate and P rate, on tree growth, nutrition, and fruit yield and quality. From these results we intend to develop recommended Best Management Practices for microsprinkler-irrigated citrus. Development of more up-to-date fertilizer recommendations will help Arizona citrus growers optimize fertilizer management practices. 2. Leaf Tissue Nutrient Levels in Commercial Pecan Orchards. Commercial pecan orchards throughout AZ are being monitored for soil and leaf nutrient levels, and for pecan yield and quality. 135 trees in 27 blocks located in 12 commercial orchards in all pecan growing regions in Arizona are being monitored. In 2003, we collected leaf tissue, soil, and nut yield and quality data from each individual tree, as well as grower fertilizer and cultural practices information. Nut quality (percent kernel) and yield are being evaluated. From this data base, leaf nutrient standards will be determined, and fertility practices will be evaluated to develop fertilizer management recommendations. 3. A Soil-Applied Zinc Fertilization Program for Arizona Pecans. Whereas the standard for zinc fertilization on pecans grown in high pH soils is the expensive and time-consuming practice of repeatedly apply zinc foliarly, we will study the possibility of several soil applied zinc amendments. 4. Use of Pecan Husks as Soil Amendments: Rate of Degradation and Nitrogen Immobilization. Pecan husks accumulate during the nut cleaning process and present a waste disposal problem. We are studying their use as a soil amendment in pecan orchards. Specifically, we are evaluating how rapidly they degrade and how the degradation process affects soil nitrogen dynamics. Vegetables 1. Sustainable Subsurface Drip Irrigation for High-Value Specialty Vegetable Crops AAZdrip@, a demonstration and research site devoted to SDI, was established during Fall 2002 at the University of Arizona Maricopa Agricultural Center <http://ag.arizona.edu/azdrip>. This site features five large plots (20 m x 120 m) with SDI or furrow irrigation. The large plots allow the use of large-scale field equipment for effective demonstration of SDI management techniques to farmers. This project allows long-term demonstration and evaluation of various aspects of crop production with SDI, in comparison with conventional furrow irrigation. This project is intended to function for at least ten years. The first crop, broccoli, was planted in October 2002 and harvested in February 2003. Seedless watermelon were planted in April 2003 and harvested in July 2003. Broccoli was planted in November 2003 and harvested in March 2003, and another broccoli crop was planted in Sep. 2004 and harvested in Jan. 2005. A crop rotation will be followed that features high-value vegetable crops, but will also include grain, fiber, and forage crops as appropriate. Short and long-term evaluations will allow comparisons of furrow vs. drip and among the various SDI treatments with respect to crop yield and quality, water use, fertilizer and pesticide use, and economic returns. Montana Nutrient, Soil, Water, and Air Management in Cropping Systems " Diverse no-till, organic rotation comparison. Organic had significantly lower N, P, K, and S, than fertilized no-till rotations, but significantly higher potentially mineralizable " Pea forage as substitute for fallow. Cutting time has substantial effect on water remaining for subsequent small grains, but little effect on residual " Nitrous oxide emissions from various cropping systems. Emitted NOx was found to be almost an order of magnitude lower, when expressed as fraction of N fertilizer applied, than figures used in global climate change models. Soil Fertility " P fertilizer for pea, lentil, and chickpea. P fertilizer affected biomass lentil yield at one site, but otherwise P did not affect biomass or seed yield of winter pea, lentil, or chickpea. " Effect of soil drying on ammonium soil test. Ammonium-N increased by factors of 4 to 9 when field moist samples were air dried. " Effect of low rate humic acid on P availability and spring wheat yield. No significant effects were found. " Sulfur recommendations for irrigated alfalfa. No significant effects on forage yield were found on either S-adequate or deficient soils. " Effect of N and S on annual cereal forage nitrate levels. Nitrogen fertilizer significantly increased nitrate levels, and sulfur significantly decreased nitrate levels, although results were variable. " Winter wheat grain yield and protein response to sulfur fertilization was mixed and unpredictable.

Publications

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Impact Statements

The WERA-103 Committee brought agricultural professionals and industry members from the western region together to promote training and communication regarding nutrient management. The Conference provided an excellent forum to showcase the latest research activities devoted to improving nutrient management in the western region and was attended by 73 scientists and practioners.
The WERA-103 Committee is developing regional strategies that will increase the cooperation between University researchers and NRCS staff to ensure that nutrient management plans and conservation programs are based on the best available data. Increasing cooperation between research and NRCS is critical to developing nutrient management strategies that enhance agricultural production and simultaneously maintain environmental health.
Published a Proceedings of the Western Nutrient Management Conference that contains 40 papers pertinent to nutrient management issues.

Date of Annual Report: 04/26/2006

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 03/22/2006 - 03/24/2006
Period the Report Covers: 03/01/2005 - 04/01/2006

Participants

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Brief Summary of Minutes

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Accomplishments

1. The committee made plans for the next Western Nutrient Management Conference to be held in March 2007 in Salt Lake City. A center point of the planning effort was recognition of the fact that this may be a unique Teachable Moment in our discipline because increased fertilizer prices and lower profitability have increased farmer and industry interest in nutrient management. There is a unique convergence of opportunity for education. As a result program plans were laid to maximize this opportunity. 2. The committee toured agriculture sites on the island of Hawaii and gained insight into how targeted agriculture has become increasingly important for Hawaiian farmers. Blue berry and tea production are being investigated as high value crops targeted to the health markets. 3. The committee representatives reported a total of 88 research and extension publications in 2006 that were focused on aspects of nutrient management.

Publications

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Impact Statements

1. A long-term impact of the WERA-103 Committee has been the conduct of the Western Nutrient Management Conference (biennial basis). This conference brings agricultural professionals and industry members from the western region together to promote training and communication regarding nutrient management. 2. Another long-term impact has been the development of regional strategies that increase the cooperation between University researchers and NRCS staff to ensure that nutrient management plans and conservation programs are based on the best available data.