HOW FEASIBLE IS IT TO MANAGE P USING INDICATORS OF LOSS?

Authors: Weld, Jennifer; PARSONS, ROBERT - UNIV. OF VERMONT; BEEGLE, DOUGLAS - PENN. STATE UNIV.; Sharpley, Andrew; Gburek, William; CLOUSER, WILLIAM - STATE CONS. COMM.

Submitted to: Agronomy Abstracts
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 7/20/2002
Publication Date: 11/11/2002
Citation: Weld, J.L., Parsons, R.L., Beegle, D.B., Sharpley, A.N., Gburek, W.J., Clouser, W.R. 2002. How feasible is it to manage P using indicators of loss? [Abstract]. Agronomy Abstracts. Paper No. A09-weld161053-oral. 2002 CDROM.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: How feasible is it to Manage P using Indicators of Loss? Farm management and economic impacts of three phosphorus (P)-based nutrient management planning approaches using: (1) an agronomic soil P threshold, (2) an environmental soil P threshold, and (3) the P Index were evaluated on eleven Pennsylvania farms. The cooperating farms varied in animal density, were located throughout Pennsylvania, and included dairy, poultry, swine, and combined animal production enterprises. Certified nutrient management plan (NMP) writers developed the P-based NMPs and provided critical feedback on the practicality of the planning process. The certified planners representing private industry, county conservation districts, and producers had varying levels of experience. Through a survey and meeting the planners provided the following feedback: Generally, they thought the flexibility provided by the P Index made it a more favorable planning approach, but expressed concerns regarding the time and cost involved with developing P Index NMPs. In response to the feedback received, modifications have been made to the P Index and information tools have been developed to facilitate the development of P Index NMPs.