Targeting critical source areas for phosphorus losses: Evaluation with soil testing, farmers’ assessment and modelling
Year: 2017
Type: article
Abstract: Diffuse phosphorus (P) losses from arable land need to be reduced in a cost-efficient way, taking into account their temporal and spatial variability. This study, based on 16 farms across southern Sweden, examined possibilities for identifying critical source areas for P losses based on the combined results of high-resolution erosion modelling, independent risk assessments by farmers, soil survey and SWOT analysis performed by farmers. Statistically significant differences in dissolved P release were found between soil P test classes in the studied area, whereas soil textural classes and not P content governed potential mobilisation of soil particles and unreactive P. Spatial comparison of problem areas identified by farmers and modelled features showed that the modelled erosion pathways intersected 109 in a total of 128 (85%) observed problem areas. The study demonstrates the value in involving farmers in the identification of critical source areas in order to select and support implementation of effective countermeasures.
Source: AMBIO
Institution: Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
Language: English
Subfield: Environmental Chemistry
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
SDGs: Zero hunger, Life on land
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,490
Funder: Stiftelsen Lantbruksforskning
Award: G4313217592
OpenAlex ID: W2743200592