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ARS Home » Northeast Area » University Park, Pennsylvania » Pasture Systems & Watershed Management Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #297743
Title: Effect of surface application of FGD gypsum on infiltration rates in a Coastal Plain soil

Author
item COLLINS, LORETTA - University Of Maryland
item FELTON, GARY - University Of Maryland
item Bryant, Ray
item NEEDELMAN, BRIAN - University Of Maryland
item ALLEN, ARTHUR - University Of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES)

Submitted to: ASA-CSSA-SSSA Annual Meeting Abstracts
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 8/28/2013
Publication Date: 11/1/2013
Citation: Collins, L.M., Felton, G.K., Bryant, R.B., Needelman, B.A., Allen, A.L. 2013. Effect of surface application of FGD gypsum on infiltration rates in a Coastal Plain soil [Abstract]. ASA-CSSA-SSSA Annual Meeting Abstracts. Paper No. 208-6.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: The poorly drained cultivated soils on the Lower Eastern Shore of Maryland are often subject to excessive runoff. Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD) gypsum, a by-product of a process used by utility companies to prevent SO**2 release into the atmosphere, is expected to be in large supply as increasing numbers of coal-fired power plants comply with current air-quality regulations. This study is measuring the impact of surface-applied FGD gypsum (0, 5, 10, or 15 Mg ha**1) on infiltration rates in a heavily manured Coastal Plain soil. Field infiltration is being determined using a constant head double-ring infiltrometer in the spring (pre-planting) and fall (post-harvest) over a two-year period. A laboratory rainfall simulation using the same soil and FGD application rates is also planned in 2013. Due to excessive rates of plant-available P (385 mg kg**1) from poultry litter use and concern for P-loss via subsurface flow, water extractable phosphorus (WEP) levels at infiltrometer sites are being monitored for possible effects on P sorption in the soil. Additionally, sulfur levels in the field soil are being monitored in consideration of future fertilization plans for the local corn crop. The benefits of increased infiltration in this study must be viewed in the context of a simultaneous project using gypsum curtains installed parallel to field drainage ditches. All subsurface flow will pass through these curtains before reaching any of the drainage ditches. By maximizing subsurface flow of rainwater (minimizing surface run-off), soluble P in subsurface flow with be directed through the gypsum curtains and potentially rendered insoluble via chemical binding with Ca. Preliminary results show indications of a positive correlation between FGD gypsum application and infiltration rate. Increased infiltration following FGD gypsum application has the potential to address two problems simultaneously: disposal of excess coal-scrubbing by-product and phosphorus contribution to Chesapeake Bay eutrophication.