Project Number: 5447-12620-003-09
Project Type: Trust

Start Date: Jul 01, 2012
End Date: Jun 30, 2014

Objective:
Identify soil microbiological indicators and quantify benefits of soil microbiological processes associated with agricultural management practices. Specifically, within corn production systems, evaluate cover cropping for reducing P inputs by stimulation of soil microorganisms, particularly arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi.

Approach:
Establish (or use existing) replicated plots with differing fall cover crop treatments within corn cropping systems at three locations (Brookings, Dakota Lakes, TBD) including a check. Through plant and soil analyses, determine effect of cover crop on biological measures and their link to the seasonal bioavailability of plant nutrients.