2004 Compendium of OMAFRA Funded Environment Research:
Soil Quality (SQ)

| 2004 Compendium of OMAFRA Funded Environment Research - Index Page |

SQ1 Environmental, economic and health benefits of pasture-based beef

Project Leader: E. Ann Clark
Plant Agriculture
University of Guelph
Guelph ON N1G 2W1
519-824-4120 x52508
eaclark@uoguelph.ca

Collaborating Researchers: I. Mandell, Animal & Poultry Science and P. Voroney, Land Resource Science

Project Duration: May 2002 - January 2006

OASIS #: 25851

Abstract:
Perennial forage (improved pasture and hay) is the single largest agricultural land use in Ontario, accounting for 2 million ha, or 44% of all the cropped land in the province. Pasture is of particular importance for year-around nutrition of the reproductive herds, including beef as well as sheep. Yet, surprisingly little is known about the effect of particular species on animal performance - either in terms of gain or meat/ milk quality. Economic return could reward a better understanding of how species and management affect the quantity and quality of CLA's from grass-based cattle, for example.

The profitability of reseeding pastures is unpredictable, because neither species-specific effects on gain nor persistence of sown species over time have been studied under field conditions. Yet reseeding is one of the most expensive and most commonly recommended practices to improve pasture performance. The bottom line of this ongoing research is to help determine whether it is more profitable to invest in improved management of an existing sward, or to establish a new sward.

Pastures are arguably a net positive environmental benefit, whether through carbon sequestration or reduced erosion/degradation, or retention of labile N. However, little evidence to support these premises has been generated in the region. Tracking trends in accumulation and loss of C in response to management of perennial pasture swards will help to clarify how pasture can service the needs of society as a whole.

The project objectives are: 1) To assess the effect of herbicidal kill vs. tillage on patterns of change in soil carbon content, carbon fractions, bulk density, and other indices of soil quality. 2) To compare economic returns, animal gains, and sward performance from old vs. newly sown pastures over years, when both are managed under intensive rotational grazing. 3) To relate cow/calf performance to changes in sown mixture composition - and specifically, to the loss of sown species - over a commercially realistic sward lifespan. 4) To assess the effect of fatty acid composition of herbage species on CLAs and omega-3 fatty acids in pastured livestock.

SQ2 Assessing composting, soil, crop and livestock management for organic and transitional systems in Ontario

Project Leaders:

E. Ann Clark
Plant Agriculture
University of Guelph
Guelph ON N1G 2W1
519-824-4120 x52508
eaclark@uoguelph.ca

R. Martin
Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada
Truro N.S. B2N 5E3
902-893-6679
rmartin@nsac.ns.ca

Paul Voroney
Land Resource Science
University of Guelph
Guelph ON N1G 2W1
519-824-4120 x53057
pvoroney@lrs.uoguelph.ca

Project Duration: June 2002 - January 2004

Project #: SR9123

Abstract:
Organic production is demanding and difficult in terms of knowledge of the biological process and soil, crop and livestock management skills. Very little research has focused on this area of emerging importance, despite its increasing significance in Canada and with our trading partners. This paucity of information is a barrier to further development of organic agriculture in Canada. A focused effort and investment in research, training and technology transfer is required to assist interested farmers in making the transition from conventional to organic methods of food production.

A key research question is how livestock and forages affect the sustainability of organic farms. Livestock must be linked to an appropriate area of cropland and in turn, nutrients and energy can be cycled on-farm in composted livestock manure. Monogastrics (chickens and pigs) may be used to convert non-fiber byproducts of the farm. Ruminants utilize the forages, grown to build soil quality. Undigested forage residues contain fibre to build soil organic matter. Farms without livestock frequently remove and sell forage crops and requires off-farm soil amendments. The survey will provide data to assess soil characteristics, crop and/or livestock yields, nutrient and energy inputs and outputs and cost effectiveness on organic and transitional farms, with and without livestock and with varying proportions of forage in crop systems.

Another research question is to what extent does compost emit greenhouse gases and can the emissions be slowed. Organic farms derive many benefits from composting by stabilizing manure, reducing pathogens, bulk and odour. Nevertheless, emissions of CO₂, N₂O and NH₃ during the composting process are well documented and if materials can be added to reduce these emissions, the process will be more environmentally friendly.

Are soil characteristics different under organic than under conventional management? Organic proponents claim to feed the soil and thereby maintain sustainable and resilient systems. Characterizing soil from pairs of organic and conventional farms is expected to address the question of differences between the systems.

The measures to be assessed in this research are included in those required in sustainable organic systems as determined by Main (2001): cost effectiveness, soil erosion risks, soil carbon increases, nitrogen use efficiency, nitrate leaching risks, energy use efficiency, and green house gas emission risks.

SQ3 (WQ) Reproductive and vegetative physiology of advanced apple orchard management systems

Project Leader: John Cline
Plant Agriculture
University of Guelph
Simcoe ON N1G 2W1
519-426-7127 x331
jcline@uoguelph.ca

Project Duration: May 2002 - April 2006

OASIS #: 25788

Abstract:
The Ontario apple industry, estimated to be valued at approximately $400 million, is the predominant fruit crop in Ontario. The wide diversity of growing regions, cultivars, rootstocks, and soil types which influence the culture and production of this crop create a unique and challenging blend of research needs to help solve the apple industry's short and long-term problems. This project is directed towards gaining and communicating a better understanding of apple tree physiology. Recognizing the factors that influence yield and fruit quality is the project's main thrust. Studies focus on the evaluation of new cultivars for suitability under Ontario's soil and climatic regime that can generate high market returns and/or develop niche markets and products. New cultivars that show resistance to pests and disease are being sought in order to reduce the amount of agri-chemicals and pesticide residues. Studies also focus on utilizing dwarfing Malus rootstocks and their influence on precocity, cropping efficiency, and tree vigour, and the performance of various cultivar/rootstock combinations in various intensive orchard production systems. Research on advanced horticultural technologies including new orchard training systems, advanced irrigation systems (such as sub-surface drip irrigation), and advances in the plant bio-substances such as gibberellins to regulate flowering and fruiting to minimize hand thinning, and prohexidione- calcium to reduce vegetative growth, are being actively pursued. Soil management studies to evaluate the benefits of soil amendments recycled from agricultural and industry sources on tree establishment, cropping, and ag-sustainability, and plant nutrition studies focusing on the improvement of fruit quality and yield are also an integral part of this research project. The goal of the research is to help Ontario apple growers produce premium quality fruit consistently, competitively and profitably, using sustainable agricultural practices.

SQ4 Optimizing the value of paper mill biosolids as a soil amendment on agricultural land in Eastern Ontario

Project Leader: Bill Curnoe
Kemptville College
University of Guelph
Kemptville ON K0G 1J0
613-258-8336 x333
bcurnoe@kemptvillec.uoguelph.ca

Project Duration: May 1999 - April 2003

OASIS #: 23800

Abstract:
The application of paper mill wastes to agricultural land is a potential economic and environmental disposal method for paper mills and a potential soil amendment for farmers. Disposal of paper mill wastes is becoming more of a problem as landfill costs increase and sites become more scarce, and as incineration regulatory requirements become more restrictive.

Some paper mill waste-water treatment solid wastes (biosolids) currently being studied have been shown to provide nutrients, particularly nitrogen, for crop production and are associated with improved soil tilth on heavy textured soils and increased water holding capacity on sandy soils. There is uncertainty about the availability of nitrogen (N) in the wastes once it is incorporated into the soil and its contribution to crop yield. In addition, there is some question as to the long-term physical effects of this waste. Timing of application is as critical to availability of N as is rate. Because of storage limitations, it is desirable for the paper industry to apply the wastes to agricultural land in the spring and fall but little research has been done to study and characterize best management application techniques.

An assessment of the effects of application of biosolid paper waste on plant growth and soil biological, physical, and chemical properties was conducted. Information from the study will be used to provide recommendations as to best management practices for application of these wastes. Increased recycling of paper mill wastes on agricultural land has a potential benefit for both farmers and the paper mill industry and may serve to enhance agricultural production in eastern Ontario.

SQ5 Quantifying the detrimental effects of improperly timed cultivation under no-till and conventional till practices

Project Leader: Bill Curnoe
Kemptville College
University of Guelph
Kemptville ON K0G 1J0
613-258-8336 x333
bcurnoe@kemptvillec.uoguelph.ca

Project Duration: May 1999 - April 2003

OASIS #: 23790

Abstract:
In a recent survey, corn producers in Ontario identified soil compaction most frequently as the soil and water conservation concern on their farms. Soil compaction has been estimated to reduce crop yield, on average, by ten per cent (10%).

This field research project compiled a complete soil physical and mechanical characterization of North Gower clay loam soil (one million acres in Eastern Ontario). The performance of a penetrometer, which combines measurements of soil resistance and water content was evaluated for its use as a tool to determine soil strength and degree of compaction. This reference data set served as a base line against which to quantify spatial and temporal (seasonal) variations in soil behaviour and crop yield in response to long-term tillage and cropping management practices.

The results of this study will help producers make decisions regarding the soil management options and implications for tillage and cropping practices for North Gower clay loam soils in Eastern Ontario.

SQ6 (WQ) Identification of soil physical conditions and cultivation practices that reduce potential for soil/water contamination

Project Leader: Bill Curnoe
Kemptville College
University of Guelph
Kemptville ON K0G 1J0
613-258-8336 x333
bcurnoe@kemptvillec.uoguelph.ca

Project Duration: May 1999 - April 2003

OASIS #: 23790

Abstract:
After the tragedy in Walkerton, public concern for soil/water contamination resulting from application of manure, as well as municipal biosolids and industrial bioproducts to agricultural lands, has grown considerably. Since 1994, Kemptville College has demonstrated that biosolids (pulp and paper) can be used in an environmentally responsible way to fertilize a corn crop thereby reducing the farmers' input costs. Farmers will have more regulations to adhere to with respect to using manure and biosolids as part of their nutrient management plan for their farms. Public policies and definitions of best management practices should be founded on appropriate scientific results. While banning biosolid application to agriculture lands represents the most conservative step with respect to minimizing soil/water contamination, it is impractical to the Ontario producer. Current and improved regulations in Ontario on application rates, etc., are a first step; however, there must be better scientific quantification of soil/water contamination problems associated with macropore flow so that appropriate science-based findings can inform policy development. The project objectives are 1) to identify/quantify how different tillage/application implements and pre-tillage/no-pre-tillage operations can reduce potential for macropore flow on clay loam soils; 2) to identify/quantify soil water conditions of cultivated soils (those prepared as for biosolid application) that minimize the potential for macropore flow; and 3) to evaluate crop response, nutrient use efficiency, and macropore flow potential associated with biosolids to plots under different cultivation practice and to evaluate soil physical property changes associated with biosolid incorporation.

SQ7 Integration of crop rotations, tillage, cover crops, manure and nutrient fertility in sustainable production systems

Project Leader: Bill Deen
Plant Agriculture
University of Guelph
Guelph ON N1G 2W1
519-824-4124 x53397
bdeen@uoguelph.ca

Collaborating Researcher:
Bill Curnoe, Kemptville College

Project Duration: May 2002 - April 2006

OASIS #: 25749

Abstract:
The research has the objective of evaluating the environmental and agronomic impacts of existing and innovative crop production systems. Four current cropping system issues will be addressed:

• identification and mitigation of limitations associated with reduced tillage systems (i.e. no-till, fall and spring zone tillage, fertility placement in fall zone tillage);
  
• development of recommendations (tillage, crop rotation, time of application, manure type and rate, soil amendments, cover crops) for fall applied manure that will reduce nitrogen losses (leaching, volatilization, preferential flow etc.) while maintaining the agronomic benefit of the manure to the crop grown in the subsequent year;
  
• increase understanding of the effects of long term tillage and rotation systems on soil properties and crop yield; and,
  
• development of systems to improve nitrogen use efficiency in corn. The focus will be on corn/soybean/wheat production systems in Ontario.

SQ8 Improving sustainability and nutrient management of an agricultural watershed

Project Leader: Glen Filson
Environmental Design and Rural Development
University of Guelph
Guelph ON N1G 2W1
519-824-4120 x56231
Gfilson@oac.uoguelph.ca

Collaborating Researchers:
P. Stonehouse, Agriculture Economics & Business, R. Rudra, School of Engineering and P. Voroney, Land Resource Science

Project Duration: May 2003 - April 2005

OASIS #: 26043

Abstract:
This project will determine the extent of natural resource conservation within Canagagigue Creek (C. C.) with each of the known conservation measures applicable in the agri-food sector including best management practices (BMPs), buffer strips, Environmental Farm Plans (EFPs), Nutrient Management Plans (NMPs), etc. Assessments will be made of the potential extent of net benefits or costs of each of these conservation measures to farmers on different sites with different characteristics, identified by GAMES modeling. This project will identify farmers who represent every level of environmental compliance for all commodity groups and farm sizes. As well as studying the extent of their adoption of BMPs, the research will assess alternative public policies for sharing the cost burden of implementing these measures. Our intention is to begin the review of the impact of implementing the Nutrient Management Act (NMA) on farmers in C. C. over the next four years, which will be assessed using on-farm interviews and soil testing. Related data collection methods will also be used to assess the quality of life implications of improved conservation efforts for farmers and non-farm rural people. The hypothesis is that the NMA, which some assume was designed to reign in industrial-sized farms, will impact small farm viability more negatively than larger-sized farms. While small farms will not have to develop their NMPs immediately, the researcher wants to determine the relative perceived effects on these small farms as compared with larger farms, through on-farm experimentation.

SQ9 (WQ, AQ) The impact of environmental management systems on agriculture and environment in Ontario

Project Leader: John Fitzgibbon
Environmental Design & Rural Development
University of Guelph
Guelph ON N1G 2W1
519-824-4120 x56784
jfitzgib@rpd.uoguelph.ca

Project Duration: May 2003 - April 2005

OASIS #: 26092

Abstract:
Environmental management programs have been a part of Ontario agricultural production system for over 20 years. These have for the most part been voluntary and have been associated with incentive programs. They have also been aimed for the most part at prevention of environmental damage and improvement of practice rather than at remediation. In recent times there has been a trend toward utilization of regulation rather than stewardship as the basis for preventative action in agriculture. It is not clear what the relationship between the regulatory and the voluntary approaches will be. Thus it is important that an assessment of the efficacy of each of these approaches be undertaken and definition of the relationship will be established to deal with current and future programs and regulatory structures. Assessment of the impacts of these stewardship programs have been limited to a few studies. To date no comprehensive impact assessment dealing with the environmental quality, agricultural viability and consumer and public acceptance has been carried out. The research will undertake an integrated impact assessment of environmental management systems in Ontario's agriculture including: past, existing and imminent programs and voluntary and regulatory programs. This study will develop and apply an impact assessment model that will include social, economic and environmental impacts of programs that have been developed and implemented in the past (CURB, Permanent Cover, SWEEP, EFP, etc). This framework will be used to assess the programs that are currently being proposed for environmental management in agriculture (EFP2, Nutrient Management, Source Water Protection, Green Cover, etc.). Three key areas will be considered in the assessment including impacts on farm management, impacts on environmental quality and impacts on public acceptance of agricultural practices. The results of the assessment will provide guidance for the development of integrated programs for agro-environmental management that provide for viable farm management systems, sustainable environments and public support for agricultural production. It will also provide guidance for agro-environmental farm policy that will support branding of Ontario's agricultural production system as being a leader in producing high quality environments.

SQ10 (WQ) Production and nutritional guidelines for grape production in Ontario

Project Leader: Helen Fisher
Plant Agriculture
University of Guelph
Guelph ON N1G 2W1
905-562-4141 x142
hfisher@uoguelph.ca

Project Duration: April 2003 - March 2007

OASIS #: 26088

Abstract:
Our knowledge of vine uptake of nitrogen (N) and crop removal values in fruit is limited in Ontario. Work needs to be conducted (on several different soil types if possible ) in order to document periods of active N uptake and periods of maximum and minimum N status in the vine during the growing season. This is required to define the appropriate window for N application in rapidly available forms (eg NH₄NO₃ through fertigation) or, conversely, to predict the availability of N for this window of opportunity from slow release forms such as dry solid manures, hay, waste paper, winery pomace, etc. Research will address the availability of nitrogen through the use of various organic amendments in normal grape production, the usefulness of various unique local soil amendments (paper mill fibre residue, winery pomace waste), the uptake of nitrogen using timed nitrogen applications, the response of grapevines to water whether grafted or own rooted and the response of wine grapes to fertigation and irrigation treatments in reference to fruit and fermentation quality. Work will also be done on vineyard geometry, cultivar evaluation for anthocyanin production, and the evaluation of cultivar/rootstock suitability in districts distant from Niagara.

SQ11 Best management practices. Barriers and opportunities to the use of paper mill biosolids on field crops

Project Leader: Michael Goss
Land Resource Science
University of Guelph
Guelph ON N1G 2W1
519-824-4120 x52491
mgoss@uoguelph.ca

Collaborating Researchers:
J. O'Sullivan, Plant Agriculture and J. Lauzon, Land Resource Science

Project Duration: May 2002 - April 2005

OASIS #: 25871

Abstract:
There is growing public concern about the application of biosolids to agricultural land. The application of biosolids to agricultural land supplies nutrients (N & P) to crops, organic matter to soils and disposes of waste materials. Currently there are guidelines for the rate of bio-solid application, the soil conditions under which application is permitted and waiting periods between application and crop production (MOE/OMAFRA, 1996). However the level at which metals in bio-solids become toxic to plants varies from soil to soil and has not been firmly established. Also the short term and long term fate of metals in biosolids applied to agricultural soils has not been clearly defined. The current guidelines may be too conservative in their recommendations for number of application years to reach maximum permissible metal content for soil concentrations to become of concern. Guidelines need to be established for the application of paper mill bio-solids to Ontario field crops that would permit the maximum application of paper mill waste products without contaminating soil or inhibiting crop growth and development. If guidelines can be established for major corps such as corn and soybean (approximately 5 million acres in Ontario) this would permit much greater utilization of organic waste. Any new guidelines however must protect food quality and safety, water quality and the environment while allowing more wide spread application of biosolids to agricultural land. This would benefit waste disposal and optimize nutrient utilization for growers by improving paper mill bio-solid waste recommendations. The project objectives are: 1) To evaluate BMPs for the use of paper mill biosolids in terms of optimum rates, timing, and frequency of application. 2) To evaluate BMPs for the use of paper mill biosolids in relation to the requirements for fertilizer additions. 3) To develop BMPs for the use of paper mill biosolids in conjunction with manure and other waste materials, including sewage biosolids. 4) Identify the effects of biosolids on soil structure, and other components of soil productivity. 5) To determine the balance of metals in paper mill biosolids applied to corn and soybeans.

SQ12 Biosolid application on agricultural land

Project Leader: Beverley Hale
Land Resource Science
University of Guelph
Guelph ON N1G 2W1
519-824-4120 x53434
bhale@lrs.uoguelph.ca

Collaborating Researcher:
L. Evans, Land Resource Science

Project Duration: May 1999 - April 2003

OASIS #: 24280

Abstract:
The research program integrated work at the University of Guelph with on-going research at Cornell University by McBride. As the methods of sewage treatment evolve, the nature of sewage Biosolids is changing: while N is currently the limiting factor in application of sludges, changing methods of flocculation may mean that P and metals are the rate limiting components of sludges. The overall "deliverable" of the research was to re-examine the current biosolid application guidelines for suitability in the current context of growing public resistance to their application to agricultural land, concomitant with the increased pressure to dispose of these wastes in a way that utilizes the nutrients contained in the biosolids. Specifically, the research addressed some of the questions surrounding the fate of metals in biosolids, and the plant availability of biosolid P.

SQ13 (WQ) Unregulated metals in biosolids: Risks to the environment, plant and human health

Project Leader: Beverley Hale
Land Resource Science
University of Guelph
Guelph ON N1G 2W1
519-824-4120 x53434
bhale@lrs.uoguelph.ca

Project Duration: May 1999 - April 2003

OASIS #: 25877

Project Duration: May 2003 - April 2004

OASIS #: 26085

Abstract:
Land application of biosolids benefits agricultural producers by providing nutrients and organic matter to soils, in quantities that benefit crop production. Since this material is free, this practice reduces input costs for farmers. Land application of biosolids reduces landfill and incineration, practices which are costly. Public concern about agricultural land application of biosolids is growing, and must be addressed, particularly as the GTA's Ashbridges Bay Sewage Treatment Plant has ceased incineration. Risk assessments (RA's) for land application of many metals in biosolids are relatively well developed. However, RA's for other contaminants in biosolids are weak, specifically for organics, pathogens and the five unregulated metals. No such risk assessments can be conducted at this time, as there is literally no data on the occurrence of these metals in biosolids, nor their uptake and accumulation by plants. Quantification of these five unregulated metals in Ontario biosolids, and plant uptake of these metals specific to Ontario soils and crops, will contribute to risk assessment for biosolids application to agricultural land. Current guidelines for biosolids application must be demonstrably protecting food and soil quality, and human health; in order to so demonstrate, they must consider all contaminants of concern.

Thallium, tin, beryllium, antimony and silver are of concern to regulators, as very little is known of their presence in Ontario biosolids, or their fate or effects once applied to agricultural soils. This research project will survey biosolids from Ontario sewage treatment plants, to determine the concentrations of these unregulated metals that would be added to agricultural soils. Reanalysis of archived soil and plant samples from biosolids-amended field plots will demonstrate whether there has been measurable additions of these metals to agricultural systems, under field conditions. Bioavailability of these metals to plants grown in soils, and to mammals from food will be evaluated, to determine the potential for transfer through the food chain.

SQ14 Ontario Farmland conservation program: Policy options for conserving farmland and rural communities

Project Leader: Stewart Hilts
Department of Land Resource Science
University of Guelph
Guelph ON N1G 2W1
519-824-4120 x52447
shilts@uoguelph.ca

Collaborating Researcher:
W. Caldwell, Environmental Design and Rural Development

Project Duration: May 2003 - April 2005

OASIS #: 25951

Abstract:
In Ontario, the loss of farmland has been documented through the separate processes of urban expansion and scattered non-farm development. The expansion of Ontario's cities has consumed 19% of the province's Class 1 farmland while across rural Ontario scattered non-farm development has had an equally significant and perhaps more insidious impact. In the year 2021, it is anticipated that there will be an additional 3,000,000 more residents in Ontario. In this changing environment the stability of rural communities and the viability of agricultural production will be seriously threatened.

The objective of the research is to identify, recommend and implement strategies to assist with the protection of Ontario's agricultural resource for agricultural production. It will also help the rural and agricultural community to understand the broader patterns of development occurring in Ontario. It will identify, recommend and implement strategies to assist with the protection of the agricultural resource. It will make connections to Ontario's "Smart Growth" initiative. It will demonstrate the connections between the protection of farmland, a healthy rural environment, and healthy rural communities.

The research will have the following deliverables:

• an evaluation of alternate tools for the protection of farmland (Canadian and American)
  
• specific proposals to the provincial government for appropriate tools and legislation
  
• analytical report on patterns of farmland loss in Ontario
  
• analytical report on the impact of rural non-farm landowners on farmland conservation and the rural community
  
• an annual provincial gathering to share and evaluate issues and tools for farmland preservation
  
• an operating farmland trust with initial projects complete

SQ15 (WQ) Evaluation of alternate policy approaches to support adoption of Best Management Practices

Project Leader: Stewart Hilts
Department of Land Resource Science
University of Guelph
Guelph ON N1G 2W1
519-824-4120 x52447
shilts@uoguelph.ca

Project Duration: May 2003 - April 2004

OASIS #: 26084

Abstract:
Establishing the most effective means to persuade farmers to adopt specific conservation practices, or "best management practices", continues to be one of the challenging questions facing the agricultural community in its attempts to achieve environmental sustainability. With new emphasis on water quality issues in the public's mind, farmer adoption of appropriate practices for both nutrient and water management is critical.

Research on this project has grown initially out of the PINUE (Partners in Nitrogen Use Efficiency) program, focussed on a collaborative project with a small group of farmers west of Waterloo. It has broadened to examine the adoption of conservation practices by farmers and other rural landowners. An international study provided a comparative context for the Canadian research, particularly evaluating the European, U.S. and Australian experience.

Field work and reporting in the PINUE project has been extended until at least Mar. 2003. This project will provide the final monitoring of the collaboration process in PINUE. Process monitoring will include assessing the usefulness of PINUE results to the municipality in the months following the completion of field work reports. Evaluation of policy approaches to support adoption of BMP's will be continued.

SQ16 A study of BMP remediation of compacted field soils in Ontario

Project Leader: Ray A. McBride
Land Resource Science
University of Guelph
Guelph ON N1G 2W1
519-824-4124 x52492
rmcbride@lrs.uoguelph.ca

Project Duration: May 2003 - April 2005

OASIS #: 25966

Abstract:
This project has three research objectives: conduct preliminary field studies in order to determine the usefulness of the electrical capacitance method as a rapid, non-destructive field technique for estimating the fresh root mass of field crops (e.g., maize) and for assessing the impact of high mechanical impedance to root penetration in soil compaction studies; conduct preliminary refinement and testing of a scaled down laboratory method for the measurement of the Maximum Dry Density and Optimum Water Content test indices in a modified Proctor Density Test; and, conduct preliminary field studies on the reliability of PTF- based predictions of the degree of soil over consolidation and the need for deep tillage/loosening on the farms of several co-operating landowners across southern Ontario where soil compaction is perceived to be yield-limiting.

SQ17 Development of environmentally friendly vegetable management systems

Project Leader: Alan McKeown
Plant Agriculture
University of Guelph
Guelph ON N1G 2W1
519-426-7127 x329
amckeown@uoguelph.ca

Collaborating Researcher:
Mary Ruth McDonald, Plant Agriculture

Project Duration: May 2003 - April 2006

OASIS #: 25945

Abstract:
This project concentrates on aspects of vegetable crops production systems, nutrition and water management to maintain yield, improve quality, investigate interrelationships with plant diseases; while reducing environmental impact. There are considerable challenges in vegetable production to reduce the environmental footprint, adapt to climate change yet maintain the yield and quality required by consumers. This project is intended to assist growers adapting to Nutrient Management and the conservation of resources. One known method to improve nitrogen efficiency is via irrigation management. We intend to investigate relationships of nitrogen efficiency and water usage of selected vegetables to optimize and conserve these resources. Cole crops, along with vegetables such as carrots and sweet corn will be the primary area of emphasis. Cole crops are in need of nutrition work as they require significant amount of nitrogen for yield and quality and can leave significant amounts of nitrogen in the field as crop residues. The amounts of nitrogen (N) required by the modern cultivars and the amount of crop residual nitrogen (N) needs to be identified. Means to reduce the N applied to the crop and the N lost in crop residuals will be investigated along with the affect that will have on available soil nutrients for a subsequent crop.

SQ18 (AQ) Hybrid poplar production to sequester carbon and utilize biosolids on agricultural land in Northern Ontario

Project Leader: John Rowsell
New Liskeard Agricultural Research Station
Kemptville College
University of Guelph
Box 6007 New Liskeard ON
P0J 1P0
705-647-8525 x221
jrowsell@onlink.net

Project Duration: May 2002 - April 2006

OASIS #: 25776

Abstract:
This project will utilize hybrid poplar and paper mill biosolids to develop a local source of feedstocks for the forest products industry in Rainy River District to help sustain the major economic engines of the rural communities of the area. It will also divert a useable resource (Clarifibre) from landfill and will enhance carbon sequestration opportunities to help Canada meet its commitments under the Kyoto Protocol. The research objectives are to demonstrate the production of hybrid poplar in Rainy River District and to investigate the use of primary paper mill biosolids (clarifibre) mulch as a weed control method in hybrid poplar production.

SQ19 Assessing structural and functional responses of soil and sediment microbial communities to sewage sludge and pharmaceuticals

Project Leader: Paul Sibley
Environmental Biology
University of Guelph
Guelph ON N1G 2W1
519-824-4120 x52707
psibley@evb.uoguelph.ca

Project Duration: May 2003 - April 2005

OASIS #: 26024

Abstract:
The land application of treated sewage sludge is a common practice for regenerating nutrients and carbon content in agricultural soils. Despite established guidelines and best management practices, the land application of sewage sludge continues to elicit public concern. The perceived potential for pathogenic contamination constitutes a basis for much of this concern. However, substantial concern also exists over the occurrence of contaminants in sewage sludge, which may include metals, surfactants, organic compounds, pharmaceuticals, and antimicrobials. These contaminants can enter soils following the application of sewage sludge. Maximum permissible levels have been established for some contaminants (metals) in sewage sludge in Ontario, but similar guidelines for other contaminants have not been developed due to a lack of information on environmental fate and toxicity. Hence, for many of these contaminants, there is a high degree of uncertainty regarding the risks that these may pose to human and environmental health. Increasingly, evidence is showing that pharmaceuticals of human origin may represent a significant class of contaminants in sewage sludge. Recent studies indicate that many pharmaceuticals occur at high concentrations in sewage sludge and may remain in soil for several months following the application of sludge to agricultural fields. At present, there is little information on the fate or effects of pharmaceuticals in agricultural soils. Because many pharmaceuticals possess antimicrobial activity, soil microbial communities may be particularly vulnerable. The objectives of the research are: 1) to determine the types and concentrations of pharmaceuticals in sewage sludge, 2) assess their relative persistence, 3) evaluate the effects of sewage sludge and pharmaceuticals on soil and sediment microbial communities, and 4) determine the risk of pharmaceuticals to soil microbial communities when sludge is applied using current best management practices. A key question to be addressed is whether changes in the structure of microbial communities exposed to sewage sludge and pharmaceuticals are associated with changes in functional capacity (e.g., nitrification).