Author
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Sharpley, Andrew |
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Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter Publication Acceptance Date: 4/14/2005 Publication Date: 6/1/2005 Citation: Sims, J. T.Sharpley, A.N. 2005. Phosphorus: Agriculture and the Environment. Book Chapter. Madison, WI:ASA-CSSA-SSSA. 1121 p. Interpretive Summary: An interpretive summary is not required. Technical Abstract: Agriculture, particularly livestock agriculture, is receiving increasing public scrutiny due to non-point source phosphorus (P) pollution and eutrophication. Much of today's situation may be attributed to system level trends in specialization and intensification that result in excess P entering livestock farms. Balancing P at the farm gate represents a necessary step for long-term soil and water quality protection. Remedial P management combines source and transport control that confront critical areas of P export in surface and subsurface runoff from agricultural landscapes. Source management seeks to immobilize P in the environment through such strategies as reducing soluble P in manure, targeting P application to soils with high retention capacities, and managing soil P. Transport controls employ an understanding of loss or transfer mechanisms to avoid P application on areas with a high transport potential. Also, the potential for P transport can be reduced by implementation of conservation practices such as reduced tillage, terracing, and stream buffers. This chapter documents the most recent science and recommendations concerning P management to protect agricultural production and water quality. |