Influence of Method of Fertilizer Application on Groundwater Pollution

by Ricardo B. Jacquez, New Mexico State Univ, United States,
Joletta Golik, New Mexico State Univ, United States,
Zohrab Samani, New Mexico State Univ, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Irrigation and Drainage

Abstract:

Researchers at New Mexico State University have been looking for methods to improve the efficiency of fertilizer application in irrigated agriculture. Preliminary results obtained in the laboratory have shown that the adsorption rate of liquid fertilizer applied through irrigation water can be improved by reducing the application rate. This improvement can be achieved either through reduced rate of application or surge flow irrigation. The study has also shown that reducing the level of salinity in irrigation water will increase the adsorption rate. Finally the study has shown that if fertilizer is applied in furrow ridges instead of applying it through irrigation water, the leaching rate to groundwater will be reduced.

Subject Headings: Nutrient pollution | Groundwater pollution | Fertilizers | Water pollution | Salt water | Irrigation water | Agricultural wastes

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