ARS | Publication request: MINIMIZING EMISSIONS FROM CHLOROPICRIN IN SOIL FUMIGATION

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: September 10, 2004
Publication Date: December 2, 2004
Citation: Trout, T.J., Gao, S. 2004. Minimizing emissions from chloropicrin in soil fumigation. Meeting Abstract. Presentation Abstract fo 32nd Almond Industry Conference, Dec. 1-2, 2004, Modesto, CA. No volume, pp 221-222.

Technical Abstract: Soil fumigants are used before replanting almonds and several other tree crops to control nematodes and pathogens, and to reduce “replant disease”. Availability and use of soil fumigants will be limited by regulations that will be based primarily on emissions into the air. Reducing emissions is critical to reducing restrictions on use and should also improve efficacy. The goal of this project is to develop practical cultural and irrigation practices that minimize fumigant emissions from the soil and allow practical use of methyl bromide alternative fumigants. We will test application methods, including shank and drip irrigation application; soil moisture conditions; and surface sealing techniques, including water seals soil compaction, and tarps, on soil distribution and air emissions of chloropicrin and Telone. These will be carried out in small, side-by-side plots to determine relative emission rates. We have carried out two preliminary tests on growers fields to compare effect of application method (shank vs. drip) on soil distribution and emissions, and to refine measurement methods. We will carry out the comparative small plot tests next spring.